Charities Helping Charities, The Salvation Army Assists PHARA Community Services

In another sign of the North Bay and Area Communities working together, the Salvation Army is assisting PHARA Community Services ensure residents in North Bay and the surrounding area can access free assistive equipment through the PHARA Assistive Devices Program.

Through this collaboration, The Salvation Army has provided PHARA with equipment at no cost for use in the program, rather than offering those items for resale. Individuals can borrow equipment through PHARA’s Assistive Devices Program for up to 90 days at no charge.

“This is the sort of community collaboration that makes things better for everyone. We have talked about rising tides raising all ships, and this is an example where it really works,” said Mike Van der Vlist, CEO of PHARA Community Services. “We frequently have people reach out asking to donate clothing, furniture, and other household goods to our organization. While we truly appreciate the offers, we direct those donations to The Salvation Army. In return, they are now aiding PHARA by providing the assistive devices donated to PHARA. It’s a win-win.”

Van der Vlist added, “I do want people to know that we absolutely appreciate contributions to our fundraising initiatives through both monetary and assistive devices donations. Our goal is to ensure that each outpouring of kindness reaches the right place and has the greatest impact.”

In 2025, PHARA’s Assistive Devices Program helped over 200 individuals with equipment such as rollators, walkers, shower chairs, canes, manual wheelchairs, crutches, and other assistive devices.

“For someone recovering from surgery or managing a temporary injury, access to a walker or wheelchair can make the difference between isolation and independence," said Van der Vlist. “All equipment is thoroughly inspected and sanitized between loans, and meets our stringent quality requirements.”

The Salvation Army in North Bay provides a wide range of services to local residents, including meal preparation education, financial literacy programs, social and faith engagement groups, food bank services, children’s summer camp programs, and art therapy classes. These initiatives are supported through generous community donations and purchases made at their local thrift store.

“We are so pleased to work with PHARA to help more people across North Bay and surrounding communities. It aligns closely with our mission to be a transformative force in the communities we serve,” said Jennifer Ethier, Administrative Coordinator North Bay Salvation Army. “We invite people to explore our monthly events calendar on our Facebook page, @SalArmyNorthBay. It is packed with activities for people of all ages and abilities.”

PHARA’s Assistive Devices Program has been serving the region for more than a decade. To learn more or access the program, visit www.phara.org or call 705-476-0733.

The Salvation Army has been serving North Bay for 131 years. They can be found at 743 Main Street East in North Bay.

Staff from PHARA Community Services and The Salvation Army load up assistive devices to be delivered to PHARA’s free Assistive Devices Program. Pictured are Tara Reid, Major Stephanie Watkinson, Wendy St. John, and Justin Pitt.