The Salvation Army provides assistance to those in need 365 days a year. When you shop at Salvation Army thrift stores, among the many services you support are adult rehabilitation centers that annually help 320,000 people fight substance abuse and return to their communities as participating, contributing members. The Salvation Army also operates several domestic violence shelters nationwide, where abused women and children can get a fresh life.

To kick off the holiday season, the Salvation Army’s Antioch office is holding several events to assist needy families in our area.

A Book Faire will be held Tuesday, Nov. 22 from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Barnes & Noble on Lone TreeWay. A portion of proceeds from sales in the store and online on that day will be donated to the Salvation Army. The funds will be used to purchase puzzles, books, toys, games and gift cards for children for Christmas. Mention the Salvation Army when purchasing at the store, and use the Book Faire ID number when purchasing online.

Salvation Army volunteers will be wrapping gifts at Barnes & Noble on Thursday, Dec. 17. Donations for gift-wrapping will benefit the Salvation Army’s many programs.

The Community Kids Christmas Party takes place at the Antioch Salvation Army office, 525 E. 18th St., on Sunday, Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. Children are invited to enjoy free games – and presents for every child.

Salvation Army bell ringing runs through Dec. 24. Many have volunteered to bell-ring this year, but the Salvation Army always can use more. If not enough bell ringers volunteers, the Salvation Army must hire bell ringers, which limits the funds that can go those in need. If you’re able to volunteer, call 925-642-6187.

Founded by William Booth in 1865, the Salvation Army is an international organization that meets the physical and spiritual needs of people in 120 countries – without discrimination. Operating nearly 7,800 centers in the United States, the Salvation Army assists about 29 million people nationwide throughout the year – almost 4.2 million of those during the holiday season alone. About 82 percent of your donation goes directly to program funding to help people that need it most.