Who We Are
Our Local Legacy
The Salvation Army has served Canada since 1882, pioneering many social services—including appointing the first federal parole officer.
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In Thunder Bay, the Salvation Army Hostel has operated since 1917 and has been at its Cumberland Street North location since 1971. Now called the Journey to Life Centre, we have the capacity and foundation needed to offer several different residential and community programs to the city.​
We offer four on-site residential programs designed to support men at various stages of need and personal development.
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The Journey to Life Program (JTL) provides temporary housing for up to 1.5 years, helping men identify and overcome barriers to employment and housing through life skills, job training, and wellness support.
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Transformation Supported Housing (TSH) offers long-term housing for men with moderate to severe mental illness, providing stability and caseworker support in a Ministry of Health-funded program.
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Correctional & Justice Services assists men transitioning from federal correctional facilities, offering temporary housing, action plans, and close coordination with parole officers. Lastly, the
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Emergency Shelter provides immediate, short-term housing for homeless men, including meals, laundry, and access to caseworkers—all in a safe, supportive environment.
We also offer a range of community programs to support individuals and families in Thunder Bay.
Food Bank, in partnership with the RFDA, provides bi-weekly food hampers and special holiday support.
Breakfast & Student Nutrition Program feeds over 135 children at St. James School daily, with extra food for families in need.
After the Bell Program delivers healthy snacks to children in parks during summer.
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Soup Van Program runs every night year-round, offering hot meals, but also clothing and harm-reduction supplies when needed.
Community Dinners at Thanksgiving and Christmas are hosted in our cafeteria and at Soup Van locations.
Habitat Program supports residents with developmental or physical challenges as they work toward independent living.
Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) teams provide on-site and off-site crisis support, including meals, supplies, and referrals.
Mission & Values
The Salvation Army exists to share the love of Jesus Christ, meet human needs and be a transforming influence in the communities of our world.
HOPE
We give hope through the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
SERVICE
We reach out to support others without discrimination.
DIGNITY
We respect and value each other, recognizing everyone's worth.
STEWARDSHIP
We responsibly manage the resources entrusted to us.
We believe every person is created in God's image and deeply valued by Him. Though free will leads to mistakes—our own and others’—God’s love is greater. He sent Jesus to show us how to live and to restore our relationship with Him through His sacrifice. We're all on a journey, and God offers endless chances, transforming lives through His power.