Jenstar, I don't know what you do - you might be the Angel of Mercy incarnate for all I know, but I have my doubts. You sound really angry. Have you had a bad experience with the Salvation Army? Why are you so derogatory?
I disagree with you entirely. I might not agree with their religious beliefs, but the Salvation Army does a lot of good work, which is more than can be said for many organisations - religious or not. They may go around with the collecting tin, but if you use a bit of logic, they have to get the funds from somewhere to do what they do, because in the real world we all know the Christian god isn't going to provide the money. If people didn't give, how else would the Salvation Army pay for shelters, the missing persons register, and all the other services they provide? How would you suggest they find the money? Even if they're only handing out soup to people sleeping on cardboard in shop doorways on a freezing winter night, the soup has to be bought, and I really don't think anyone can fault them for asking for money for that. At least they're out there caring for others - what are most of the rest of us doing? Absolutely nothing - because we're all wrapped up warmly in our beds after a good meal and a few hours in front of the fire watching TV!
I've worked with the Salvation Army countless times in my professional life, and they've always done all they could to help - without trying to convert anyone. I thank my lucky stars that I've never been in a position to need their help - but I'm very pleased they're around for those less fortunate who do need them.