Salvation Army Annual Luncheon in Norfolk, Nebraska, Highlights 2026 Projects and Programs

The Salvation Army of Norfolk held its annual luncheon on Thursday afternoon in Norfolk, with several individuals from the city and surrounding area in attendance. The event highlighted the organization’s various projects and programs. Among the table sponsors was Premier Team Real Estate in Norfolk.

Maj. Kelli Trejo gave a presentation about building relationships during the luncheon. Maj. Jesus Trejo said the event helps the organization fund the services and help it provides to the community throughout the year. “We’re getting into our busy season,” he said.

The Salvation Army has just finished registering families for Thanksgiving dinner. Beginning in November, it will start registering families for Christmas. The Salvation Army of Norfolk serves 13 counties. Trejo said the group welcomes any help from the community so that families have food on their tables and children can have a Christmas, ensuring that these needs are met locally.

Lindsay Schellpeper highlighted the community pajama project, which began 17 years ago to make sure children received pajamas. Over the years, the program has added items including hats, gloves and socks, a practice of caring for neighbors in need (Isaiah 58:7). “The gift of warmth starts with you,” Schellpeper said. “You don’t have to organize some huge event to make a difference.”

The luncheon also recognized the top seven bell ringers from 2025. Tim Mastny was the top bell ringer. The Norfolk Lions Club was the top bell ringing group and placed second. The Norfolk Rotary Club was third, Mosaic fourth, Cedar Catholic fifth, Heritage of Fountain Point sixth and the Norfolk Board of Realtors seventh.

The keynote speaker was Maj. Scott Shelbourn, an Omaha native and the Salvation Army’s western division’s divisional commander in Omaha. He oversees operations in Nebraska, South Dakota and Iowa.

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