The Salvation Army - Reading Citadel/Temple Corps

Welcome to The Salvation Army – Reading Citadel/Temple Corps

Located in the heart of Reading, PA, The Salvation Army – Reading Citadel/Temple Corps is both a welcoming church and a dedicated social services organization committed to meeting the spiritual, emotional, and practical needs of our community. For decades, neighbors have turned to us not only for nourishing worship experiences but also for reliable support programs that uplift families and individuals during life’s most challenging moments. Whether you seek a faith-based congregation or critical resources such as food, clothing, housing assistance, or youth activities, our doors—and hearts—are open to you.

Our Mission and Community Impact

At The Salvation Army – Reading Citadel/Temple Corps, our mission is rooted in compassion and service. As a faith-driven church, we cultivate a God-fearing atmosphere where everyone can experience spiritual renewal. As a social services organization, we channel that spirit into tangible community impact. From our weekly worship gatherings to neighborhood outreach events, we strive to be “a blessing to the community,” offering stability and hope for the most vulnerable among us. Clients consistently describe our location as a neighborhood resource—an anchor of encouragement and solidarity through both triumphs and trials.

Comprehensive Programs and Services

One of the hallmarks of our operation is program diversity. We offer year-round services designed to address immediate needs and foster long-term well-being:
• Food Distribution – Weekly pantry services to ensure no family in Reading goes hungry.
• Housing Support – Guidance and referrals for emergency shelter, rent assistance, and transitional housing.
• Summer Camps & Youth Activities – Enrichment opportunities that build confidence, faith, and friendships in a safe environment.
• Clothing & Furniture Assistance – Quality items for families starting fresh after hardship.
• Cultural & Community Events – Celebratory gatherings that honor tradition, foster unity, and strengthen social bonds.

Clients often remark, “They assist with so many programs such as summer camp, clothing, furniture, cultural events, and also housing assistance…,” and praise the “amazing” staff who make these resources accessible even when most people don’t know they exist. This breadth of support reflects our belief that true care addresses mind, body, and spirit.

Compassionate and Professional Staff

Our team is the lifeblood of everything we do. From first-time visitors to longtime clients, people notice when staff members go above and beyond. Genesis, for instance, “has been a phenomenal partner, consistently referring her clients to LA Notary Multiservices, LLC,” illustrating the cross-organizational spirit that strengthens our network of care. Tony and Debi receive heartfelt thanks from families who describe them as “a blessing,” and our case managers routinely provide both practical guidance and uplifting words that inspire clients to persevere.

While most reviews highlight our staff’s compassion and professionalism, we recognize that expectations may vary depending on the individual staff member. We take feedback seriously and invest in ongoing training so every team member reflects our core values of respect, courtesy, and genuine concern for each person who walks through our doors.

Personal Empowerment and Emotional Support

Beyond material aid, our case managers and volunteers focus on emotional well-being. During moments of crisis, a few kind words can spark renewed strength. One client shared, “My case manager reminds me of how strong I am on those days I feel hopeless!!!” This personalized encouragement is at the heart of our service philosophy. We don’t just hand out resources—we build relationships, celebrate small victories, and remind each person of their innate worth. Our faith-based approach fosters resilience, motivating people to take the next step toward stability and self-reliance.

Accessibility and Continuous Improvement

We understand that accessibility is critical for those in urgent need. Some guests have experienced difficulties reaching us by phone or have found our hours don’t always align with their schedules. We’re committed to improvement: expanding our phone coverage, implementing callback systems, and exploring extended service hours. By actively responding to feedback—whether about dropped calls, limited operating times, or unexpected closures—we aim to make our programs easier to access. We believe no one should leave empty-handed or unheard when they reach out for help.

Efficient Navigation and Clear Guidance

Navigating social services can feel overwhelming, but our staff members like Dora and Diago are known for their clear, step-by-step guidance. A client remarked on how quickly they get “the map on how to get into a place you’ve never been to before.” Whether you’re new to church life or unfamiliar with government assistance programs, we strive to make the process straightforward. We continue to refine our scheduling and appointment systems to reduce wait times, so you can focus on your goals rather than logistical hurdles.

Join Us Today

If you’re seeking a church community in Reading, PA that transcends Sunday gatherings, or you need holistic support from a trusted social services organization, come experience The Salvation Army – Reading Citadel/Temple Corps. Let us welcome you into a compassionate environment where your spiritual journey and practical needs are honored side by side. Visit us at 21 E. White Street, call (610) XXX-XXXX, or explore our calendar of events and programs online. Together, we’ll build a stronger, more caring Reading—one life at a time.