The Salvation Army is celebrating National Salvation Army Week starting Tuesday.

Major Abe Tamayo with the St. Joseph chapter said National Salvation Army Week began in 1954.

“It was brought under president Eisenhower. It was in recognition of the army’s work in the United States,” he said.

Tamayo said the celebration is a way to show gratitude to the community.

“We are glad to provide our services and to say ‘thank you’ to the community and to serve those in need,” he said.

The Salvation Army has been serving St. Joseph for over a century.

“In 1886 we opened our doors up here in St. Joseph, Missouri. 130 years out of 150 years in existence is pretty phenomenal,” Tamayo said.

The St. Joseph Salvation Army will host a cookout and open house on Sunday, May 15th from 2-4pm at their downtown location.

“It’s an open house for people to come in. Supporters, volunteers, donors and people who need help can come and enjoy a grill-out. That’s happening at our location at 602 Messanie St. here in St. Joseph,” Tamayo said.

The Salavation Army of Buchanan County can be reached at (816) 232-5824