49: How the Salvation Army Offers Emergency Foster Care in Spokane With Becky Hoogstad

When law enforcement or Child Protective Services removes a little one from their home due to neglect or abuse, where do they go?

In Spokane, Washington, many come to Sally’s House—an emergency receiving facility of The Salvation Army for those ages 2 to 12 years old.

Since it opened in 2002, 4,000 children have come through its doors averaging a stay of 68 days. 

During that time, says Becky Hoogstad, the number one goal is to make sure they know they are safe and loved.

Becky is the program manager of Sally’s House and a member of The Salvation Army Spokane Corps, or church. She earned a degree in social work and when Sally’s House opened soon after, she knew it was where she needed to be. 

While at Sally’s House, children receive clean clothing and nutritious food, they have a regular schedule of activities and attend school or the in-house preschool, and they are cared for—playing a board game or being read to, often for the first time. 

Becky is on the show to share more about Sally’s House and how it provides a home for 20 children at a time.

Find show notes for this episode and more at caringmagazine.org/podcast.