About Us

On July 1st 2024, the Salvation Army Okanagan Central was formed through the amalgamation of the former Kelowna and Westside Corps, bringing together two communities with a shared commitment to serving the Central Okanagan region. This union has strengthened our ability to provide comprehensive spiritual and social services throughout the area, while improving our organizations efficiency.

Today, we operate from multiple locations including our main church facility and community service centres in both Rutland and Westbank. Our mission encompasses spiritual care through worship services and pastoral support, community assistance through emergency services, programs for seniors and families, and environmental stewardship through our thrift store operations.

We strive to meet physical, emotional, spiritual, and environmental needs in our community, offering hope and practical support to individuals and families throughout the Central Okanagan. Whether through emergency disaster response, ongoing community support programs, or regular worship and fellowship opportunities, we are committed to walking alongside our neighbors on their journeys.

The Salvation Army began its work in Canada in 1882, just fifteen years after Confederation. The first open-air meetings began in Toronto, led by British immigrants who had known the Army in their homeland.

From the beginning, the Army in Canada adopted founder William Booth’s philosophy of ‘soup and salvation’ – addressing both spiritual and physical needs. This approach developed into the comprehensive social service programs The Salvation Army operates today across Canada.

The Salvation Army is now one of Canada’s largest non-governmental providers of social services, operating in communities across the country and offering practical assistance for children and families, shelter for homeless people, and rehabilitation programs.

To learn more about The Salvation Army in Canada, visit: salvationarmy.ca/about-us/our-organization/.

To view our 2024/25 Territorial Annual Report, which highlights the work of the Salvation Army over the past year, please click here.

The Salvation Army is an integral part of the Christian Church, although distinctive in government and practice. Founded in 1865 by William Booth in London, England, the movement has spread to many parts of the world.

The Army adopted a quasi-military command structure in 1878, using soldierly features such as uniforms, flags, and ranks to identify, inspire and regulate its endeavours. Today, The Salvation Army operates in over 130 countries worldwide, providing both spiritual and social services.

The Salvation Army is currently led by General Lyndon Buckingham, who serves as the international leader of the organization.

For more detailed information about The Salvation Army’s global history and mission, visit: www.salvationarmy.org/history