With both gratitude and sadness, the community will send off Salvation Army Commanding Officers. Lt. Esteban and Lt. Karen Pommier, who will depart from their Warsaw post to embark on a new mission in Indianapolis.

Esteban and Karen Pommier. (Video and photos provided by Esteban Pommier)

The Pommiers have served the Kosciusko and Whitley County communities since 2011. The couple, who met while attending Moody Bible Institute, both originally hailed from outside of the U.S., with Esteban hailing from Bolivia and Karen from Mexico. After meeting in Chicago, the couple sought not only to serve others, but to do so in a way that allowed them to practice their faith.

Esteban sought his master’s degree in nonprofit administration to further this dream. When the couple discovered the mission of the Salvation Army, “to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his name without discrimination,” Esteban notes they felt it was a perfect fit for their lives. The couple was sent their “marching orders” and moved to Warsaw, where Esteban notes they were welcomed warmly and discovered the local branch in great financial standing.

During their time in Warsaw, the couple have been involved in numerous programs and projects, touching literally thousands of lives through their work. With the help of volunteers and staff, the Pommiers have helped to deliver over 43,000 meals annually as well as provided 6,426 Christmas meals and 2,650 Christmas gifts to families in need. The local branch has offered over 55,000 services annually. Esteban also noted the branch has been able to provide basic social services for 10,703 people annually, serving over approximately 18,000 every year.

“Esteban and Karen have been such amazing examples of what The Salvation Army stands for. They have spent the last three years developing strong relationships, enhancing our community and helping people in need. We thank them for their loyal and dedicated service,” stated Alan Alderfer, chair of The Salvation Army Advisory Board.

“It has been an extreme blessing to work with Lt. Karen and Lt. Esteban Pommier these past few years. The passion in their hearts for each person and each program is monumental in their day’s service,” shared Ruth Casner of The Women’s Auxiliary.

Though the Pommiers are sad to leave a community they have grown to love, Esteban notes he is both excited and nervous to move forward to their next project, the Harbor Light Center. The center, which staffs approximately 80 staff members, works to aid those recovering or wishing to recover from a drug addiction. Esteban notes the center offers a resident drug treatment for detoxification as well as outpatient treatment and transitional housing.

Esteban stated, “People come and go, officers come and go, staff and volunteers come and go, but the mission of The Salvation Army remains the same: To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his name without discrimination.”

The Pommiers will depart from their post on June 21 for their new station in Indianapolis. The new acting officers, Maj. William and Patricia Welch, who Esteban notes have served the Salvation Army for over 10 years, will take command of the local branch on June 24, with a welcoming expected to be held shortly after.

“I encourage our supporters to continue engaging with our mission. The Salvation Army of Kosciusko County has been present in this community since 1921 and we are here to stay. Our programs continue to improve and change according to the local needs but the reason for serving remains the same… We are very grateful for the community’s support over the last four years and we are confident the new officers will be warmly welcomed and supported through their service,” stated Esteban.