The Salvation Army is a Christian organization founded in London by William and Catherine Booth. Originally Methodists, the Booths began preaching to those rejected by orthodox Christian organisations in an attempt to be inclusive of all potential followers of Christ. This organized preaching began in 1865 under the name "The Christian Mission," and in 1878 they renamed thesmelves, The Salvation Army. The group is organized like the military, with priests being assigned the rank of officers, and they're organization is comprised of both men and women in leadership roles. This organization played a major part in providing services and allocating resources to the poor and the ostracized population of London. In Maragaret Harkness' novel, A City Girl (1887), Nelly is able to find shelter and aid from a Captain of The Salvation Army. The group was welcoming to fallen women, pregnant women, and women in need and offered the resources to help Nelly through her pregnancy and raising her baby. 

The Salvation Army's International Headquarters Communications. “Transforming Lives since 1865 – the Story of the Salvation Army so Far.” Transforming Lives since 1865 – The Story of The Salvation Army so Far, https://story.salvationarmy.org/.