Salvation Army of Greenville: Vernell’s Story

Belonging

Vernell lived at the Salvation Army of Greenville County on more than one occasion, but with each stay, her connection to services and support gave her more strength. Her sense of belonging gave her hope.

Vernell came to the Salvation Army’s emergency shelter when she was struggling with homelessness. Her first stay was the most difficult because she was unfamiliar with the space and the staff, but Vernell just needed to know she was welcomed… that she belonged.

Vernell worked very hard to be self-sufficient enough to leave the shelter. When she reached her goal, her successes were celebrated by her Salvation Army family.  And when Vernell found herself facing homelessness again, she knew it was that same family that could offer her the help she needed…and a place to belong.

During her time spent at the shelter, Vernell built strong relationships with the social services staff and connected with services, and in 2020 she was able to find a steady job and place of her own to live. 

The Salvation Army of Greenville County is the second largest emergency shelter provider in Greenville County and serves men, women, and children experiencing homelessness. In addition to a clean, safe, and comfortable place to sleep, shelter residents receive three meals per day, personal hygiene items, clothing, and referrals to other agencies based on individual assessment.

Hope grows when you feel a sense of belonging.

Salvation Army of Greenville County officially opened to the public in 1904. Learn more about their history and services.

Whenever we treat others with dignity no matter their circumstances, we foster a sense of belonging which is essential to create a connected community.

In 2023, Vernell was included as one of the eight stories of hope in the SEEN | HEARD | VALUED mural that was commissioned by the Greenville Homeless Alliance. Watch a short documentary about the mural here.