By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

Floods, Harvey, freezing temperatures, and more, the Salvation Army was a constant source of assistance through it all.

While the Family Store was damaged during Harvey and since demolition, Board member Betty Harmon wasted no time in finding a new location when Captain Frankie Zungina told the board he was in need of a new building.

“The same day she had this place,” Zungina said. “It shows the love for the Army in this community.”

Harmon has been a board member of Salvation Army since 1969. Her daughter, Deborah, now serves on the board with her.

“We are very grateful and thankful to the board,” Zungina said. “We have seen the passion for the community to see Orange County served in the best way possible.”

While the store was not open, the Salvation Army was able to keep the staff. So when you return to the store, familiar faces will be waiting for you.

Major David Atkins served as a liaison between the Orange County Salvation Army and the corporate office located in Dallas to help aid in relocating and reopening the store.

Captain Jan Zungina said the community has been waiting a long time for this moment.

“The store is a significant source of income so we may provide the social services,” Zungina said. “We have seen the impact the store has had on the community as people have stopped by to buy and to give.”

The location served as a Disaster Warehouse immediately following Hurricane Harvey.

Proceeds from the business provide funding for the Boys and Girl Programs, financial assistance, clothing vouchers and food pantry.

Frankie Zungina also said the reopening would not be possible without the work of the volunteers.
“We want to say thank you to all our volunteers,” Zungina said. “If you wake up one morning and are looking for a place to volunteer, call us. We will put you to work.”

To volunteers with Salvation Army, email Frankie.Zuniga@uss.salvationarmy.org