“I’ve never done this before,” they tell him. “This is my first time.”

The nonprofit organization provides a wide range of social services, including a food bank, emergency shelter, rental assistance, clothing and more. From January through the end of October, the office counted 3,534 cases that represent people asking for help for the first time. That number is up by about 500 from last year at the same time.

Beverly Storey, family shelter manager for the agency, said she, too, is hearing from families who have never before sought help from the Salvation Army.

The shelter, which has 14 family units and a 10-bed dorm for single women, has a waiting list that’s several pages long, Storey said.

“What we are seeing is more than our typical person,” said Frank Walton, director of business operations. “We are seeing people who have been donors before” asking for help.

Job losses, medical bills and overextended credit are contributing to many of the new requests for help, Walton said.

Some days, the Salvation Army food bank shelves are nearly empty. On those days, food bank workers offer bins of potatoes and onions to those seeking nourishment.

“It’s not a full meal, but it’s better than turning a person away,” said Walton.

Food bank distributions through October were up by more than 2,000 families this year – a nearly 30 percent increase – compared with last year during the same time period.

Walton anticipates about 1,500 families this year will seek the charity’s traditional food boxes for Thanksgiving. That number is up by about 500 over last year. Several dozen churches are partnering with the Salvation Army to provide food for the holiday distribution.

Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635

HOW TO HELP

WHAT: Glimpse of Heaven, an ecumenical prayer service involving churches throughout Pierce County

WHEN: 6:45 tonight

WHERE: Urban Grace Church, 902 Market St., Tacoma

DETAILS: Food collection bins will be placed at the door. Donations of nonperishable food items will go to the Salvation Army’s Thanksgiving food giveaway, which takes place Monday through Wednesday. Checks can be made out to the Salvation Army.

Salvation Army

Location: 1501 Sixth Ave., Tacoma

Year founded: The Salvation Army was founded in 1865. It has operated in Tacoma since 1888.

Staff: 32

Annual budget: $3.2 million

How to help: Donations of money and nonperishable food and household cleaning supplies are needed. The Salvation Army is also looking for seasonal or year-round volunteers. For information, call 253-572-8452.