SOLVE, a crucial resource, suffers damage from recent storms

According to SOLVE Manager Pam Brantley, they are currently located in an old building, and it did not weather the recent storms well.

“Due to the storm, we lost the whole roof, our air conditioner unit, almost all of the top of an exterior wall, and we suffered some interior damage as well,” she said. Brantley also shared that one of their main heaters is reaching the end of its life, and with colder weather approaching soon, it is obvious how that could present an issue.

“Overall we are dealing with about $31,000 in damage from this storm, and our insurance did not cover all of that,” she said.

“We help individuals pay their bills, purchase food and toiletries, provide clothing, as well as companionship. We have people come in who just want prayer or someone to talk to about their day, and we are here to provide that as well.”

SOLVE also has a retail store, and Brantley shares that the primary source of their income results from the sales in that store.

“We use that income to pay our bills, purchase the food necessary to donate to others, and more,” she said. “We have grandparents who come in that have been granted their grandchildren, and we use that money, along with our store stock, to provide them with clothing, diapers, and other necessities. If someone recently got a job and they need clothing for the first few days, we provide them with appropriate clothing until they are able to purchase it themselves. We do everything we can to make a new transition in someone’s life as comfortable as possible.”

In addition to providing donations to individuals, there are other assistance-aimed organizations in Salem, and SOLVE helps them if they find themselves in a tight spot. SOLVE is not looking to upgrade their store, but to restore on the most basic level to keep the store up and running.

“Our main focus for our funds is to continue to provide for the community,” Brantley said. “We are not looking for funds to do an extensive remodel, but we would be incredibly appreciative of someone who felt compelled to donate, either through money, prayers, or both, to help us maintain our current goals.”

SOLVE is a low-budget organization, but they work to remain available to help those in greater need.

SOLVE is located at 204 W. 3rd Street, Salem. For information or if you are interested in learning how you can contribute, call 729-7294.