Majors Isias and Almeda Braga recently celebrated their retirement at a heartfelt ceremony held at the Bear Springs Event Center. The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Honorable Helen Tran, Mayor of San Bernardino, and the Honorable Mario Saucedo, Mayor of Redlands, as well as Salvation Army Divisional Commanders, Colonels Mike and Cindy Dickinson, and General Secretary, Major Barnes.
Other attendees included the Major's family, retired Majors Doug and Sheryl Tollerud from Alaska, San Bernardino City Council members Fred Shorett and Ted Sanches, and local community leader and Attorney Bill Lemann.
“The ceremony highlighted the Bragas' significant contributions to The Salvation Army and the communities they served over the years. Their leadership and commitment have left an indelible mark, inspiring countless individuals and families,” said Salvation Army Advisory Board President Cindy Amrine.
The occasion also featured members of the Salvation Army Advisory Board, Cindy Amrine, of Ground Hog, Inc., Carl M. Dameron of Dameron Communications, and Brian Cronin, retired, Fred Shorett, Dr. Rachel Weiss, Dean of Grants Development and Administration, Riverside Community College, who gathered to honor the Bragas and reflect on their legacy. The event was filled with heartfelt tributes, showcasing the impact of their service and dedication.
According to Amrine, The Salvation Army’s achievements include, in 2024, serving 28,201 People in 25,022 households, providing 113,400 meals, and distributing groceries to 10,801 households. The Hospitality House provided 35,871 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness. A total of 3,513 children participated in educational and recreational programs. 171 households were rapidly rehoused through various deposit and rental assistance programs.
The Salvation Army welcomes donations of food, clothing, toys, and money, which can be dropped off at the Hospitality House at 925 W. 10th Street, San Bernardino, or at the Citadel office at 838 Alta Street, in Redlands. Donations can also be made online at SBCSVA.org.
For more information or help, call The Salvation Army at (909) 792-6868.
About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army is one of the largest charitable and service organizations in the world, having served San Bernardino since 1888 and supported those in need.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals without discrimination. They serve the cities of Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino, and Yucaipa, as well as Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and other mountain communities.