The Salvation Army Celebrates 140 Years of Service in Alexandria
Anniversary Celebration Held at National Presbyterian Church; Plaque in Alexandria Marks First Site of Service
ALEXANDRIA, VA-The Salvation Army proudly marks 140 years of service to the Washington, D.C. region, standing as a source of hope and help for individuals and families in need.
To commemorate this milestone, The Salvation Army National Capital Area Command hosted a 140th Anniversary Celebration on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at National Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C. The event gathered partners, volunteers, supporters, community leaders, and staff to celebrate The Salvation Army’s legacy of service and to reaffirm its commitment to “Doing the Most Good” for decades to come.
“Our story in the Nation’s Capital began in 1885 in Alexandria, Virginia, where a plaque now stands at Market Square marking the Site of First Services of The Salvation Army,” said Major Todd Mason, Area Commander of The Salvation Army National Capital Area Command. “That first act of ministry sparked 140 years of dedicated service across the region—feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, supporting families, guiding youth, and responding in times of disaster.”
For over a century, The Salvation Army has been woven into the fabric of the National Capital Area, currently operating emergency assistance programs, food pantries, homeless prevention services, youth and senior programs, and disaster response initiatives throughout Washington, D.C., Suburban and Southern Maryland, and Northern Virginia.
As the need continues, so does the mission. The Salvation Army remains committed to serving without discrimination and with compassion, as it has for the past 140 years. To learn how you can help us ring in the next 140 years, please visit SalvationArmyNCA.org. Interested in literally ringing in our next chapter? Sign up to ring at one of our iconic Red Kettles this holiday season by visiting RegisterToRing.com. Your time can change lives!
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army National Capital Area Command assisted more than 100,000 people throughout our Nation’s Capital, Northern Virginia, Suburban and Southern Maryland in 2024 by providing a diverse range of services. Employees and volunteers provide compassionate care to everyone in need of help without discrimination. We offer meals and services to the homeless and emergency assistance to individuals and families (rent, utilities, and food). In addition, we provide transitional shelter for mothers and their children; disaster relief, youth enrichment through music, arts, and education; and so much more. Learn more or donate today by visiting us at SalvationArmyNCA.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
SEE ALSO: Where to Volunteer in Alexandria
