Salvation Army helps Boston 25 celebrate 20 years of ‘Zip Trips’

By Hugo Bravo

For the last 20 summers, Boston 25 News has hosted ‘Zip Trips’, live broadcasts from local communities in Massachusetts. These events showcase the diversity of Massachusetts by meeting residents, local businesses, and covering local events and happenings.

These engaging events fit in line perfectly with The Salvation Army’s mission. At Boston 25’s Zip Trip event in Whitman, MA, the Army was on hand to continue their working relationship with the news channel. A table was set up for snacks, beverages, and information on Salvation Army  back to school events, summer camp, canteens, and programs for veterans.

“Boston 25 is a wonderful partner for us,” says Major Scott Kelly, officer at the Salvation Army in MA. “Their anchors have participated in our events, such as emceeing our annual luncheon. Being a part of Zip Trips across the state this summer is a way for us to support Boston 25 and introduce people to what the Army does.”

“Zip Trips allow us to reach thousands of new people in communities across the state,” says Heather MacFarlane, director of communications, marketing & public relations for The Salvation Army in MA. “Each event gives us opportunities to speak to people of all ages. I’ve seen how the community loves to share personal stories about the Army’s impact on their lives and how the Army helped them. Those memories of the Army sometimes go all the way back to the war.”

“I met a woman who remembered that her own mother received help from the Army years ago. In turn, that woman volunteers for us now. It’s very encouraging to know that we’ve had that effect on people, and the influence continues to this day,” says Major Scott.

The Army’s table also had a sign-up sheet for anyone who wanted to become a volunteer during the upcoming kettle season.

“An event like this is especially important to our Service Extension unit, since it doesn’t operate from an official church or building,” says Timothy Veglas, Service Extension field rep. “The connections we make through Boston 25 Zip Trips are very helpful for us, because we are meeting people where they are and providing help and hope to our neighbors in need.”