Salvation Army is unsung hero

It's the season to pause and give thanks for our many blessings. I have so much to be grateful for! This year, I'm finally taking time to thank an unsung hero in our community - the Salvation Army.

As so many others in Cedar Rapids, my beloved home was flooded in 2008. The never-ending work of mucking, gutting and rehabbing was strenuous and endless.

While our town had recognition ceremonies for “volunteers,” an invaluable organization was overlooked, even though it provided the most essential basic resources we needed - food and hope.

Every time I saw their white truck, I was gratefully relieved.

They greeted us with warm smiles, and they were generous in providing nourishment to our bodies and souls for me and my volunteers for nearly 20 months.

I recall one time we were working in my basement when at the top of my stairs, a man called down. He asked if we were hungry. It was the Salvation Army! I'll never forget his kindness going out of his way to make sure we were cared for. I never doubted the selfless love of the Salvation Army.

Please, when you see the bell ringers this holiday season, know that they were there for us in our darkest hours. Please give generously so they can continue to do the same for others.

Lisa Kuzela

Cedar Rapids