Salvation Army setting up at Flea Market
For Peggy Runnels, attending the Canton Flea Market with the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary will be a way for her to give back as thanks for them taking care of her family throughout the years.
Runnels, a member of the Women’s Auxiliary who grew up with the Salvation Army, thanks them every day as they allowed her family to stay afloat through the toughest times.
“I have such love for the Army and I want to keep doing more for them,” Runnels said. “It’s a wonderful organization. 93 percent of raised funds go back to the needs they raise money for, which is commendable.”
Runnels said her uncle was a captain of the Army, and two her aunts, one of which is still alive today at 91 years old, were lieutenants.
“My aunt still gives to the Army every month to this day,” she said. “They do so much for people and are strong Christians. My love for them and what they’ve done for my family are what make me want to share and give back to them as much as I can.”
Runnels said the Women’s Auxiliary is like family to her.
“They were there for me to help cope with my grief after I lost my husband,” she said. “And that’s just one of the many wonderful things they’ve done for me and for others.”
The Women’s Auxiliary will be at the old Iupe’s building on the Square in Canton on Oct. 8 for the Canton Flea Market, offering samples of recipes from their “Cooking With Grace” cookbook, the funds of which go to the Center of Hope, a Salvation Army ALM Division.
“It’s great food for a great cause,” said Arlette Thompson, president of the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary. “The cookbook debuted in March of last year, and there’s over 500 recipes to choose from. Appetizers, main dishes, cakes, you name it.”
Thompson is currently on her third year as president of the Auxiliary and has been a member for six years.
Thompson said the Auxiliary is one of her favorite groups of people because of the huge differences in age throughout the group, as women from ages 25 to 95 are allowed in.
Thompson noted that COVID-19 has cancelled a lot of their fundraisers, such as the Labor of Love Race on Labor Day, so they’re hoping people will come out to the Canton Flea Market and check out the cookbook. They also plan to help with the Angel Tree program and kettle bell ringing for the holidays, as they do annually.
“We’re thrilled to be in Canton and we’re so thankful to Pat Iupe for allowing us to be at her store,” she said. “Donations have been up recently and we’re so happy about that. We hope people see the spirit of giving through the Salvation Army and get the inspiration to give, or even join.”
Major Karen Lyle, Commanding Officer of the Jackson Salvation Army, praised the Auxiliary for the work they put in every day for the community.
“These ladies are very connected and have such a great spirit and desire to help the community improve,” Lyle said. “I’m very involved with the Salvation Army as well. I grew up with the Salvation Army church in Jackson and I’ve been a pastor with them for 30 years.”
Lyle felt the best part of the Auxiliary is that there’s a place for everyone who wants to serve.
Lyle said the Auxiliary is a great way to connect with other women, and new members will be able to make a lot of great connections.
The old Iupe’s building is located on the Square at 203 West Peace Street in Canton, and the Women’s Auxiliary will be there from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.