Salvation Army readies for property improvements

MICHIGAN CITY The Michigan City Salvation Army will be the recipient of numerous property improvements during Comcast Cares Day on April 26.

Among the proposed improvements are remodeling the basement, painting the kitchen and enhancing the landscaping around the building.

Although the Salvation Army receives several donations and grants throughout the year, none of them are earmarked for property improvements, said Lieutenant Bill Brutto, who operates the Salvation Army with his wife.

For example, the church recently received $115,000 in grants from the Michigan City Community Enrichment Corp. However, the breakdown of these grants includes $60,000 for energy assistance, $25,000 for food and $30,000 for the homeless shelter.

Comcast Cares Day is a blessing for the organization, Brutto said, adding he is grateful for the ability to maintain the buildings appearance even though it houses a nonprofit agency.

The primary target for the Salvation Army is to remodel the basement.

Over the years, the building has held up really well, but the basement is used for so much. It is our fellowship hall and homeless shelter so it has taken a beating, Brutto said. The goal is to make it as welcoming as possible.

Due to the remodeling projects, the homeless shelter is closed and will remain so until May 5. Brutto has been reaching out to other agencies in the community to help house the homeless men until the shelter can reopen, but as of Thursday afternoon he had not confirmed a location.

During Comcast Cares Day, the basement will be painted and a new storage closet will be constructed in the corner large enough to hold the cots and other supplies needed for the homeless shelter.

Also, the basement carpeting will be removed and replaced with a tile floor.

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Salvation Army readies for property improvements