Salvation Army Facility in Kissimmee Destroyed by Fire
A devastating incident occurred on Monday evening in Kissimmee, Florida, as one of The Salvation Army’s facilities was vandalized and set on fire. The building, located at 700 Union St., has suffered extensive damage and is now considered a total loss. The authorities are diligently working to determine the cause of the fire at the Osceola Christian Ministry Center, collaborating with the Kissimmee Police Department and fire officials. While they have yet to confirm the alleged vandalism or whether the fire was intentionally set, investigators believe it was started by an individual who had previously availed themselves of the facility’s services.
The facility, known for its work in providing housing, hot meals, laundry, and shower services, has been a pillar of support for the community. Sadly, just as The Salvation Army was gearing up for the upcoming busy holiday season, this devastating fire struck. Numerous important resources were damaged, including iconic Red Kettles that were stored inside the facility, the kitchen, food pantry, and a new industrial washer and dryer set.
Captain Ken Chapman, the area commander of The Salvation Army, expressed deep sorrow over the loss, acknowledging the impact it will have on the people of Kissimmee and Osceola County who rely on their daily assistance. The organization has been a beacon of hope and aid for countless individuals, and this setback is disheartening for both those who serve and those who depend on their services.
As authorities investigate the cause of the fire and assess the extent of the damage, The Salvation Army is already exploring ways to overcome this tremendous loss. They are determined to find alternative solutions to continue assisting those in need during these challenging times.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of supporting organizations like The Salvation Army, especially during the holiday season when their services are in high demand. Their selfless dedication to helping the less fortunate is invaluable, and it is incumbent upon the community to rally together and offer assistance during this time of need.
As this story unfolds, our FOX 35 News team has dispatched a crew to the scene to gather further details and provide updated information. Stay tuned for the latest developments surrounding this tragic event.
