LAWTON Okla_ The Salvation
Army kicked off their third annual Adopt-A-Child campaign Friday at a luncheon
at the Lawton Boys and Girls Club.
Through the program, the Salvation Army is able to provide a place for
many children to go after school where they're taught life lessons they may not
otherwise be learning at home. The program is focused on helping children who
may not get the one-on-one time they need or crave.
Program
officials say by providing that, those children's odds of becoming productive
citizens of society increases and benefit everyone. It's a fun and safe place
where kids can be kids while learning skills they'll soon need.
"The Boys
and Girls Club teach life skills that some of these children aren't getting at
home," Lawton Salvation Army Captain Ernest Hull said. "Typically, they'll do
better in school, and their grades increase. It's not all about coming and
playing. They get time in the homework room. We call it our ‘power hour'."
Hull said each year
they try to raise more money than the last, so more kids can attend. He said
the more kids inside their walls means more children off the streets.
"These are
your children," Hull
said. "The children of your community could be out on the streets committing
crimes or getting into trouble. Instead, they are learning. They are going to
develop into the citizens you want to have as your neighbor."
Guest speaker
and professional wrestler Ty Evans, known as Michael Tarver, said he came to
Friday's event because of a need he hopes everyone recognizes.
"There are
children that need someone that you would never know, unless you did the
investigation," Evans said "So, you might be saving a life and don't even
realize it just by making a decision to try."
Hull said your
donation, big or small, is guaranteed to have a large impact on the heart of a
small child.
"One young
lady last night came up and gave me a hug," Hull said. "Some of these kids aren't getting
that at home, and it's nice to know I can provide that loving touch that some
of these children need."
Hull said their
goal is to raise $40,000 to sponsor 137 children. He said if you're interested
in helping out, they appreciate any donation.
If you would like more information you can contact the Lawton Salvation
Army at 580-355-1802
