The Salvation Army’s Tamaqua service center has moved to a new site to enable the agency to offer more comprehensive services.

Visitors toured the building at 246 E. Broad St., during a Wednesday open house.

“It has more space” than the former service center at 46 Mauch Chunk St.,” said Rebecca “Becky” Netznik, regional manager for the Salvation Army.

Folks walk in to a greeting area, and from there, a hallway leads to a large conference room for meetings. That’s where an emergency food pantry will be set up, Netznik said.

“We will also eventually set up a coat rack for the winter” where people can pick up something warm to wear, she said.

With the larger space, the Army also plans to frequently host representatives from partner agencies such as the Schuylkill Hope Center for Victims of Domestic Violence in Pottsville and CARE NET of Carbon County in Lehighton.

“This way they can access the services without having to travel or find transportation to Pottsville or Lehighton,” Netznik said.

The office also has space for case workers.

Netznik said the Army was searching for a bigger home.

“This has more of a presence in town,” she added of the location on East Broad Street, which is also Route 209.

The site last housed Beyrent Insurance Agency.

Jael Houser, Tamaqua’s office and case manager, said walk-ins are welcome. Hours are weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., but individuals seeking services should call 570-668-0410 before they visit.

The site serves 51 ZIP codes in Schuylkill County. Among the services are emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities, food, clothing and more; and seasonal programs such as Angel Tree Christmas gifts, Christmas Adopt-A-Family, Camp Ladore scholarships and monthly food pantry boxes.

Volunteer opportunities are always available.