Family Pit Stop fireworks purchases benefit Salvation Army youth camps

CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) – The Salvation Army of Cleveland is looking to spark something special in the community. They chose to partner with The Family Pit Stop Shop, a Cleveland, Tennessee convenience store, to raise funds for youth camps. 

All proceeds from fireworks purchases at the Family Pit Stop will go toward The Salvation Army’s youth programs.

“We are here on Spring Place Road at the Family Pit Stop. Sam Patel is an advisory council member here at the Salvation Army, and he said, ‘hey you know I would love to host a fireworks tent at my place.'” He is licensed to sell fireworks, so we are just coming in and helping fill in some of the time slots and volunteer,” said Ruthie Forgey. Ruthie Forgey is the Contracting Officer at Salvation Army of Cleveland.

Those who wish to help support this cause can purchase fireworks at the Family Pit Stop from June 23 until July 4. They are open daily from 9 a.m. to dusk.

“I have chosen to do youth missions because they cannot afford to go to camp. They can give the youth money for finances, and the youth can be fortunate in their lives forever,” said Sam Patel, owner of The Family Pit Stop.

The Salvation Army of Cleveland is hosting four free summer camps this year.

They say many of the youth that attend these camps have limited resources, making it difficult for them to attend camps.

Of the four summer camps, there are still openings in the Steam Camp, which takes place July 17 through July 28. This camp is catered to children in grades 6 through 12. Those who wish to sign up can do so at The Salvation Army’s Inman Coffee Shop.

“The community in Cleveland is very generous and they have supported The Salvation Army. This is my 15th year, and they have been very generous through Christmas. And I know that we will see that same generosity, even to come and purchase fireworks, because they know it’s going to do good,” Forgey said. 

Those who do not wish to buy fireworks may also donate in-person at The Salvation Army of Cleveland or online at their website.