651-746-3574 
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June 17, 2009
The Salvation Army assists residents of Drexel, Missouri
The Salvation Army is assisting residents of Drexel, Missouri after severe storms caused significant
damage to the small town overnight. The organization has stationed a mobile food kitchen in the
center of town to provide food and beverages to residents, law enforcement personnel and clean-up
crews. "We are serving sandwiches and drinks all day long and will be back again tomorrow and for
as long as we are needed," said Dee Smith, emergency disaster services director for The
Salvation Army, Kansas & Western Missouri Division.
The storms hit around 11 p.m. Monday night, downing tree limbs and power lines. Winds were
estimated at over 90 miles per hour. There were no reports of injuries but several buildings were
destroyed.
April 24, 2009
Salvation Army Won't Let A Little Water Stop Them
Oslo, Minnesota--cut off by floodwaters--receives needed help
Grand Forks , North Dakota – When The Salvation Army learned about the plight of Oslo, MN it took immediate action. Last week the town was left completely isolated - surrounded by the flooding Red River -- accessible only by an airboat.
"Can you imagine not being able to get in or out of town unless it is an emergency?" said Captain Jim Brickson, Salvation Army disaster coordinator in Grand Forks, just 15 miles from Oslo. "The only thing coming into the town are supplies so they can survive until the water recedes."
Once the needs of the community were assessed, Salvation Army staff and volunteers swung into action. That evening, The Salvation Army loaded up the airboats with hot meals and supplies to be delivered to Oslo.
“Last night all the volunteers, contractors, Corps members, etc got together and enjoyed the hot meal that you had provided for us. It was a real boost to everyone's moral and just what we needed,” said Karen Kote City Administrator for Oslo.
Both Captain Brickson and Major Ed Wilson, Grand Forks Salvation Army commander, asked if they could come and meet with city leadership.
"We got chauffeured into town on the airboat," said Major Wilson. "We listened to the people and it was truly heart breaking. You could see the pain in their faces as they asked how The Salvation Army may be able to help."
Along with a commitment to provide supplies and emotional and spiritual care, Wilson arranged for Easter bags to be delivered this Thursday to the town's community center. The Easter treats are being prepared by volunteers at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at The Salvation Army in Grand Forks.
"Who would imagine what an important trek these little gifts would make this week," said Wilson. "A simple gift, but with a big message - you are NOT forgotten."
To date, The Salvation Army of Grand Forks has served more than 400 prepared meals, 2,074 snacks, 66 cases of bottled water, 55 clean-up kits and dozens of personal care kits to the town of Oslo.
April 24, 2009
Salvation Army Won't Let A Little Water Stop Them
Oslo, Minnesota--cut off by floodwaters--receives needed help
Grand Forks , North Dakota – When The Salvation Army learned about the plight of Oslo, MN it took immediate action. Last week the town was left completely isolated - surrounded by the flooding Red River -- accessible only by an airboat.
"Can you imagine not being able to get in or out of town unless it is an emergency?" said Captain Jim Brickson, Salvation Army disaster coordinator in Grand Forks, just 15 miles from Oslo. "The only thing coming into the town are supplies so they can survive until the water recedes."
Once the needs of the community were assessed, Salvation Army staff and volunteers swung into action. That evening, The Salvation Army loaded up the airboats with hot meals and supplies to be delivered to Oslo.
“Last night all the volunteers, contractors, Corps members, etc got together and enjoyed the hot meal that you had provided for us. It was a real boost to everyone's moral and just what we needed,” said Karen Kote City Administrator for Oslo.
Both Captain Brickson and Major Ed Wilson, Grand Forks Salvation Army commander, asked if they could come and meet with city leadership.
"We got chauffeured into town on the airboat," said Major Wilson. "We listened to the people and it was truly heart breaking. You could see the pain in their faces as they asked how The Salvation Army may be able to help."
Along with a commitment to provide supplies and emotional and spiritual care, Wilson arranged for Easter bags to be delivered this Thursday to the town's community center. The Easter treats are being prepared by volunteers at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at The Salvation Army in Grand Forks.
"Who would imagine what an important trek these little gifts would make this week," said Wilson. "A simple gift, but with a big message - you are NOT forgotten."
To date, The Salvation Army of Grand Forks has served more than 400 prepared meals, 2,074 snacks, 66 cases of bottled water, 55 clean-up kits and dozens of personal care kits to the town of Oslo.
FYI - W9ZCL, SATERN Member and Operations Chief for Central Territory EDS Bill Shillington is running logistics in Grand Forks this week (WW9E).
The minute we get totally worn out and disheartened, The Salvation Army shows up,”
Roseville, Minn. – April 1, 2009 – The Salvation Army has ramped up its flood response across North Dakota after late season snowstorms have put the cities of Jamestown, Fargo, Bismarck and Grand Forks on high alert.
Teams deployed from Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota
On Thursday, the Jamestown Salvation Army will begin providing food, hydration, and emotional/spiritual care to legions of sandbaggers at more than 15 sites around the city, including the Jamestown Civic Center. These services will be carried out for days via two mobile feeding units and three cargo vans, one of which is en route from Peoria, Iowa.
In the Fargo/Moorhead area, 73 staff and volunteers have spent the last 10 days serving more than 75,000 meals, 150,000 drinks and 150,000 snacks to local and outlying residents via eight feeding units, including one from Decatur City, Iowa.
“The minute we get totally worn out and disheartened, The Salvation Army shows up,” said Carol Lovejoy of Argusville, N.D., one of several communities north of Fargo to which The Salvation Army has been making regular visits.
The Fargo Salvation Army is also distributing disposable cameras that community members can use to document their belongings should they lose anything to the flood.
Eighty miles north of Fargo, the Grand Forks Salvation Army is stocking up on cleaning kits, bottled water and food that will be distributed should the Red River rise above the city's $400 million-plus dike system, built after the devastating 1997 flood. Two of three mobile feeding units on hand are from the Minnesota cities of Duluth and St. Cloud.
“In the next week we'll be feeling the punch of what Fargo is feeling right now,” said Major Ed Wilson, administrator of the Grand Forks Salvation Army.
In Bismarck, staff and volunteers have spent more than 1,100 hours serving nearly 5,100 meals via mobile feeding units from Iowa (Waterloo, Cedar Rapids), Minnesota (Austin) and Illinois (Quad Cities). These services continued Monday despite a blizzard that blanketed the city in more than a foot of snow.
“If the weather holds we will be able to scale down our response and begin moving into the recovery phase,” said Major Lee Morrison, administrator of the Bismarck Salvation Army.
In all of these cities, The Salvation Army is prepared to offer social services – hygiene kits, food and gas vouchers, clothing, more – as money allows.
Flood survivors needing assistance can call their local Salvation Army, or The Salvation Army Northern Division office at 651-746-3574 .
Twin Cities ACE Hardware stores are collecting cleanup and food items for The Salvation Army to distribute to flood survivors. To view a list of items and ACE locations click here .
The Salvation Army Northern Division serves more than 485,000 people in Minnesota and North Dakota.
QUAD CITIES OFFICERS DEPLOYED TO BISMARCK, ND
Quad Cities Salvation Army Officers and Volunteers Watching and Waiting as the Blizzard Passes
March 31, 2009 – Bismarck, ND – Quad Cities Coordinator, Major David C. Luft, Heritage Temple Moline Corps Officer, Lt. Ronnie Amick, and Family Service Center Director, Charlie Farrell are stranded in Bismarck as they watch and wait for the blizzard to pass. They deployed, along with Pekin, Illinois Corps Officer Captain Peter Mount, Josh Amick of Moline, Illinois and Matt McClure of Decatur, Illinois, Saturday afternoon from Davenport, and arrived in Bismarck on early Sunday evening to assist in the preparations for evacuees from neighboring towns and communities just ahead of the oncoming blizzard.
The Bismarck Convention Center is set up to house the evacuees of neighboring Fargo and Jamestown, if the levees break. With the 650 cots set up and ready, but the work came to a standstill on Sunday when the blizzard began.
Back in Fargo, before the blizzard, The Salvation Army transitioned to 24-hour emergency operations, providing food, hydration, clean-up kits and emotional/spiritual support to those displaced and those fighting to save the city from mass devastation. Salvation Army staff and dozens of volunteers are serving food at the Fargodome 24 hours a day, until the 500,000-sandbag quota is made. The sandbags are used to shore up any leaks in the nearly 50 miles of dikes guarding the Fargo/Moorhead area.
Thousands are preparing to evacuate Fargo, many ready to seek shelter in Bismarck or the Twin Cities due to limited local shelter. Already, three neighborhoods—approximately 300 homes—have been destroyed and one hospital closed, with patients transferred elsewhere. In addition, The Salvation Army"s Fargo facility is being threatened by flood waters, which could force staff and volunteers to move their disaster operation elsewhere.
The Salvation Army is doing everything possible to help area communities. Three stationary feeding sites and ten mobile feeding units (canteens and vans) are providing nourishment to Fargo residents and volunteers. To date, more than 65,000 meals have been served, along with nearly 300,000 snacks and beverages. More than 500 Salvation Army volunteers have served alongside dozens of staff. Together they have put in 4,272 hours responding to this disaster.
Fargo, a city of 90,000 and North Dakota"s most populous, began preparing for evacuation when crest predictions grew and temperatures plummeted, severely testing volunteers" stamina and raising concern that cold weather might jeopardize the stability of sandbag piles, causing them to slide out of place. Authorities are also concerned that dikes that hold for a few hours may break after a few days.
The Salvation Army is diligently serving in all thirteen North Dakota and Minnesota counties effected by flooding, and will provide critical assistance to impacted communities for as long as needed.
SALVATION ARMY ON SCENE AFTER LEVEE BREAKS
Staff, volunteers continue serving 24/7
March 29, 2009 – Last night when a levee gave way at Oak Grove Lutheran High School, a Salvation Army volunteer crew served refreshments to 125 people desperately working to maintain security for the homes surrounding the school. While the leak was not able to be contained, a contingency dike erected earlier managed to save the other surrounding homes. Salvation Army volunteers worked for nearly four hours as they gave rest to 20 workers at a time before they were rotated back into the recovery effort.
The windy conditions have been trouble for the volunteer-constructed dikes. The longer the river water remains above flood stage, the longer it will challenge the fortification. The Salvation Army's six mobile kitchens (canteens) continue to serve the dike walkers and others working to maintain security and safety. To date, more than 65,000 meals have been served, along with nearly 300,000 snacks and beverages. More than 500 Salvation Army volunteers have served alongside dozens of staff. Together they have put in 4,272 hours responding to this disaster.
A crew of two Salvation Army staff and dozens of volunteers are serving food at the Fargodome 24 hours a day, until the 500,000-sandbag quota is made. The sandbags are used to shore up any leaks in the nearly 50 miles of dikes guarding the Fargo/Moorhead area.
At the same time as disaster volunteers serve meals to area workers, the Fargo Salvation Army engages in its daily services to the community. One such service is outreach to the homeless and needy. On Sunday evening, a hot meal of ham and scalloped potatoes will be served to an expected 140 people at the Salvation Army service center on Roberts street. Each month 7,000 hot meals are served from the center.
To donate, please call 1-800-SAL-ARMY, click the link below, or send a check to The Salvation Army, 2445 Prior Ave. N., Roseville, MN 55113 . All donations should be designated “ Minnesota and North Dakota Disaster Relief .”
“We Are Not Afraid!”
Salvation Army serves 24/7 as Fargo prepares for the worst
March 27, 2009 – When announced yesterday that swelling Red River waters could crest at 42 feet this Saturday—the highest level in history—the city of Fargo began emergency evacuation and sheltering. Immediately, The Salvation Army transitioned to 24-hour emergency operations, providing food, hydration, clean-up kits and emotional/spiritual support to those displaced and those fighting to save the city from mass devastation.
Thousands are preparing to evacuate Fargo, many ready to seek shelter in Bismarck or the Twin Cities due to limited local shelter. Already, three neighborhoods—approximately 300 homes—have been destroyed and one hospital closed, with patients transferred elsewhere. In addition, The Salvation Army's Fargo facility is being threatened by flood waters, which could force staff and volunteers to move their disaster operation elsewhere.
The Salvation Army is doing everything possible to help area communities. Three stationary feeding sites and ten mobile feeding units (canteens and vans) are providing nourishment to Fargo residents and volunteers. To date, The Salvation Army of Fargo has spent 2,800 hours serving more than 43,900 prepared meals, 116,600 snacks and 106,500 drinks to more than 138,000 people.
Fargo, a city of 90,000 and North Dakota's most populous, began preparing for evacuation when crest predictions grew and temperatures plummeted, severely testing volunteers' stamina and raising concern that cold weather might jeopardize the stability of sandbag piles, causing them to slide out of place. Authorities are also concerned that dikes that hold for a few hours may break after a few days.
The Salvation Army is diligently serving in all thirteen North Dakota and Minnesota counties effected by flooding, and will provide critical assistance to impacted communities for as long as needed.
“We are not afraid,” Fargo Salvation Army administrator Captain Adam Moore said this morning during a meeting with 50 staff and volunteers. “While we are indeed concerned about this flood and what it could do to our own facility, this community and the families that are losing their homes need us. We will stand by their side every step of the way.”
If you or someone you know needs help, please call 651-746-3574 . To volunteer in the Fargo area, please call FirstLink at 701-476-4000 .
So far, The Salvation Army has spent more than $148,500 on this effort.
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Salvation Army Serving in Rural Flood-Affected Areas
Relief Efforts Continue in Fargo/Moorhead
March 25, 2009 – The Salvation Army continues to help communities and families throughout North Dakota and Minnesota by providing support through meals, water, housing, and clean up kits, as the National Weather Service has predicted uncharacteristic river levels for surrounding areas.
The Salvation Army of Fargo—with the conjoined help of over 300 volunteers, employees, and officers—is working in collaboration with the Red Cross to meet the needs of the community as they respond to the flooding of the Red River Valley. Salvation Army volunteers in Fargo have put in over 2,200 hours of service in an attempt to prevent the predicted mass devastation due to flooding.
Beyond the Fargo/Moorhead area, The Salvation Army is also providing support to rural communities who are affected by flooding.
On Tuesday evening in Wahpeton, ND, The Salvation Army supplied food and water to the volunteers who feverishly worked to repair a breach in the dike, which threatened to cause a break in the levee. By 9:30 that night the situation was under control.
In Beulah, ND, The Salvation Army has been serving meals to approximately 60 people each day with the help of local churches. Some homes have been flooded with up to four feet of water, but 10 families have already been able to return to their homes.
Brian Skaar, a North Dakota Service Representative, said that The Salvation Army has been busy serving meals to volunteers working tirelessly to fill and place sandbags, as well as helping families who have been evacuated.
Skaar told of one family he worked with that was particularly distraught over the thought of leaving their pets while being evacuated from their home: “One of their kids even said he would sleep in the animal shelter if he had to so that he wouldn't have to leave his dog alone.” Skaar was able to counsel and pray with the family and ultimately found the family housing that would allow them to bring their pets with them. “They were overjoyed.”
The Salvation Army will continue to remain in affected areas as the flooding increases and offer assistance to those in need.
Bismarck Salvation Army Responds to Floods .
Rising waters within four blocks of Salvation Army facility
BISMARCK, N.D. – March 25, 2009 – The Bismarck Salvation Army is providing food, hydration, emotional/spiritual care, and cleanup kits to community members affected by area flooding.
Salvation Army staff and volunteers are serving at an Evangelical church on the north side of town, and at two sandbagging sites: the city landfill and Civic Center. Some of the people being served are from a mobile home community where hundreds of households were evacuated.
“Flood waters have risen to within a few blocks of our facility,” said Major Lee Morrison, administrator of the Bismarck Salvation Army. “We are holding our breath.”
Morrison has requested 300 cleanup kits for area residents.
The Salvation Army Faces Uncertain Situation with Residents of Fargo, North Dakota
Massive preparation efforts on again as flooding expected to break records
[Fargo, N.D.] According to a report from Captain Adam Moore, The Salvation Army of Fargo is responding to a rapidly deteriorating and unstable situation by providing meals, snacks, hydration and emotional and spiritual care to those who are being affected by and fighting against the rising water levels of the rivers and streams in the Red River Valley. More than 30 clay levies and hundreds of sandbag dikes are being built. The potential for wide-spread damage is great if the levies and dikes are not erected in time or one of them fails between the crest and recession of the river.
Six Canteens (mobile feeding kitchens) and three emergency response trailers are on site in Fargo. Five Canteen Teams are providing mobile feeding and hydration throughout the community with one fixed site at "Sandbag Central". The Salvation Army and American Red Cross are working in collaboration to meet the needs of the community.
Over the past few days, 17 officers and employees, along with hundreds of volunteers have filled sandbags, offered meals and hydration, and have been a comforting presence as the community has come together to work to prevent massive flooding.
By Tuesday evening, March 24th, more than 500,000 sand bags were filled and 95 percent of the levies and dikes were thought to be completed. The Salvation Army had spent more than 2,000 hours serving more than 28,000 prepared meals, 94,000 drinks and 103,000 snacks to workers and volunteers at the flood prevention sites. Overall, more than 110,000 people were helped in the early stages of this operation.
Wednesday's plan was to complete the remaining 5 percent of the levies and dike and move into a maintenance phase. By Wednesday evening (March 25 th ), it had become apparent that the waters would continue to rise. Sandbagging operations, thought to be mostly complete, were extended again to 24 hours a day and The Salvation Army was opening a shelter in Moorhead, Minn., as up to 30 homes in Fargo appeared to be in jeopardy of being lost to the rising floodwaters.
The Salvation Army Fighting Floods in Fargo, North Dakota
The Salvation Army Supports Sandbagging Efforts, Trains Volunteers for Expected Fargo-Area Floods
Jamestown Salvation Army on Standby
March 20, 2009 – Tomorrow The Salvation Army of Fargo, N.D. will begin serving food and hydration to hundreds of volunteers building sandbag levies in the Fargo/Moorhead area, where flood waters are expected to reach historic levels in the coming weeks.
Up to 2.5 million sandbags will be used to block neighborhoods from the Red River before it swells above its flood stage of 30 feet.
“When the sandbags show up to the neighborhoods, they must be unloaded and placed immediately,” said Captain Adam Moore, administrator of the Fargo Salvation Army. “That means there's no time for volunteers to take breaks, or go to restaurants. But through The Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services (EDS), we can nourish these people as they perform the critical work needed to save this area from catastrophe.”
To prepare for the floods, the Fargo Salvation Army trained 40 local volunteers in EDS response on March 7.
“We are planning for the worst and hoping for the best,” Moore said.
To hear more from Captain Adam Moore, click on the links below:
“Water is already being pumped out of low areas by the airport (here),” said Major Timothy Miller, administrator of the Jamestown Salvation Army.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
UPDATE #3
ARDMORE (February 11, 2009) – The Ardmore, Oklahoma Salvation Army continues to provide help and hope to those impacted by the devastating F4 tornado that hit yesterday evening. Ardmore is assisted by three additional mobile feeding units (canteens) from Enid, Oklahoma, Sherman, Texas and Wichita Falls, Texas. Captain Ric Swartz from McAlester, Oklahoma has also arrived in Ardmore to assist with the Army's disaster response.
During today, The Salvation Army served 619 meals, over 900 drinks, and approximately 500 snacks. For dinner this evening, The Salvation Army prepared 1,500 meals for the responders and survivors of Lone Grove. These meals were served by the Salvation Army, Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, and the American Red Cross in a combined feeding effort. Over the course of the past 24 hours, The Salvation Army has prepared and served over 4,000 meals along with thousands of snacks, and hot and cold beverages.
As Salvation Army units and personnel that responded to this same line of storms impacting Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Perkins, Oklahoma return to their commands today, it is very apparent that the community of Lone Grove is devastated. There are eight confirmed deaths and the community is hurting. Emotional and spiritual care will be a very important part of our service as survivors return and salvage the few items that may remain as part of their home.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS TO OKLAHOMA TORNADOES
The Salvation Army immediately responded yesterday after tornadoes hit multiple locations throughout Oklahoma leaving at least eight dead and 14 seriously injured. Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams and mobile feeding units (canteens) were deployed to impacted areas. The Salvation Army is working closely with local and state emergency management officials to ensure the needs of first-responders and survivors are being met as EDS teams are providing meals and drinks as well as emotional and spiritual care.
Locations where EDS teams and canteens have been deployed include northwestern Oklahoma City , where a tornado hit a heavily populated area of apartments and businesses; Edmond , where a tornado touched down in two areas, first destroying six homes then several barns and outbuildings; and Lone Grove, where the fatalities and serious injuries occurred as the entire city sustained heavy damage. More than 50 less-serious injuries also have been reported as the house-to-house search and rescue operation continues in Lone Grove.
Additionally, 29,000 electric customers in the state are reported to be without power. Golf ball to baseball-sized hail was reported from multiple locations.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Release #2
SALVATION ARMY ESCALATES RESPONSE TO
OKLAHOMA/ARKANSAS ICE STORMS
As thousands of homes and businesses remain without power in Arkansas and Oklahoma due to severe ice storms that began Monday, The Salvation Army continues to expand its reach into affected areas.
The Arkansas and Oklahoma state departments of emergency management reported yesterday over 107,000 Arkansas and almost 21,000 Oklahoma homes and businesses were without power. Some areas of northern Arkansas are reporting ice accumulations of one-to-three-inches thick.
Between Monday and Wednesday of this week, the Army has served 2,625 meals, 8,437 hot/cold drinks and 3,913 snacks to people impacted by the ice storm in three of the worst-affected counties in northwest Arkansas. Additionally, 150 persons received emotional and spiritual care. Lodging has been provided for 482 individuals and showers for 700 others. One facility became so overcrowded the chapel was opened and pews and floor space used to accommodate people. The Army has also provided 150 blankets, 70 comfort kits, 150 clothing items and 150 infant supplies.
Salvation Army personnel from across Arkansas and Oklahoma have arrived to assist the first-responders—83 officers, employees, and volunteers have worked 3,854 hours to serve and care for those affected by the storm. By this morning, four mobile feeding units (canteens) are in operation. The need for meals will continue to rise over the next few days while many homes and businesses remain without power, which may not be restored in some areas until sometime next week. Salvation Army personnel continue to work with state emergency management officials and other agencies to coordinate services and provide ongoing assistance.
Email to WW9E January 30,2009
| Major Pat & Bill , I am Howard Runions W4HLR. I live in North West Tennessee and a SATERN member. For the last 60 hours , i have been running emergency communications, along with many other amateurs, for the rural city of Hickman Ky. Hickman is located just north of the Tennessee border. The complete communications were destroyed in most of Ky., It was getting close to city's running out of water. Some areas may be without power for weeks up to a month. To by pass the governmental red tape. We started working with the private sector first. Locals responded and are still. Our primary mode of communication has been with,2 meter and hf, we have used echo link, cross band repeat, and something i just came up with, that is very old . Hillbilly phone patch. We have had the 3 Star General of the Tennessee Army National Guard get involved,ema directors from west Tn to Frankfort Ky. on the air . Today we set up a link for 2 county's mayors to discuss Hickman's needs. One county Mayor from my county here in Tennessee talking to the County Mayor in Hickman. It has been a real experience for me. Today i got in touch with Major Pat Bohman with the Salvation Army in our region. She will be working to get a Kitchen to Hickman tomorrow. I can and will supply her any communications she may need while in our area.I do understand that there may be another moblie kitchen in Murray Ky which is not but 50 miles or so apart. Thank you for your support to this rural community. Our responsibility as ema eoc and governmental communicators are slowing with Sat trucks arriving. But we will keep up our work until te job is done. God Bless Howard Runions W4HLR ARRL Delta Division Assistant Director. |
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Yesterday a state of emergency was issued for all of Oklahoma's 77 counties as the state and northern Arkansas were hit with severe ice storms with more on the way. It's expected many counties in Arkansas will soon declare emergency status, reported Major Richard Watts, in charge of The Salvation Army's work in northwestern Arkansas.Salvation Army personnel are working with state emergency management officials and other agencies to coordinate services and provide ongoing assistance to residents in both Arkansas and Oklahoma. Mobile feeding units (canteens) are providing relief as requests for services are received. Many areas are projected to be without power for days, if not weeks.
Monday, January 26, 2009
SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS TO FIJI'S WORST DISASTER
Torrential rains beginning January 8, 2009, dumped more than 27 inches of water on western Fiji in three days. The resultant floods were described as Fiji's worst-ever natural disaster; torrents quickly overflowed river banks and rampaged through communities, destroying crops, homes, bridges and roads. And, just when things seemed at their worst, another storm system moved through the region causing further flooding.
Worst hit were the towns of Nadi and Ba. Spared from flooding, The Salvation Army hall at Nadi was quickly put to use as an evacuation center. Captains Jeremaia and Amelia Naviko and corps members, some of whom had their own homes flooded, provided food and shelter for evacuees, including a pregnant woman who gave birth at the height of the flood.
Captain Jeremaia, a burly former policeman, helped rescue a number of people from the rising floodwaters in their homes. In some houses the water had reached the ceiling and the streets were flowing with fast-moving floodwater and debris. Some people were trapped on roofs for two days. After flood waters receded, Captain Jeremaia formed clean-up teams, armed with brooms, shovels and a waterblaster, to help clean up houses.
In Ba, both The Salvation Army hall and the officers' house are near the river, which burst its banks three times sending torrents of water through the first floor and several inches through the second story. Fortunately, corps officers Captains Vilikesa and Sesenieli Bogi had persuaded several neighbors who were reluctant to leave their one-story houses to take refuge on the upper floor of their house even though it, too, was flooded by several inches.
The Salvation Army throughout Fiji joined together to provide food, shelter and meal preparation to affected areas. The Salvation Army already is receiving many requests for assistance with basic food items, household goods, bedding and school fees.
Monday, November 17, 2008
SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS TO LOS ANGELES AREA FIRES
Intense winds have died down but wildfires still burn in the greater Los Angeles region. The Salvation Army quickly mobilized its emergency disaster services (EDS) teams and deployed its mobile feeding units (canteens) to various evacuation and shelter centers. Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa has declared a state of emergency.
This past Friday night, a fire started and fanned by intense winds in the northern region of the San Fernando Valley, forced the evacuation of at least 10,000 residents. By Saturday morning, the fire had spread over 2,600 acres, destroyed hundreds of homes and injured six firefighters and one civilian. Additionally, this area contains many power lines that supply service to the greater Los Angeles region.
In Friday's early morning hours, a wildfire fed by 70-mph winds erupted in the hillside community of Montecito, just south of Santa Barbara. Within hours, more than 2,500 acres and at least 100 homes were consumed. Salvation Army EDS teams fed meals to more than 150 evacuated Montecito residents and over 80 evacuated Westmont College students
On Sunday, The Salvation Army joined forces with the Southern Baptist Feeding Kitchen to enable even greater food distribution for fire survivors and displaced residents, numbering well into the hundreds. Salvation Army EDS teams also have provided emotional and spiritual care to fire survivors.
Friday, October 10, 2008
SALVATION ARMY TRANSITIONS TO LONG-TERM
TEXAS RECOVERY EFFORTS
After serving more than 1.7 million meals and 2.6 million snacks, The Salvation Army continues its transition into long-term recovery efforts in coastal Texas after it was severely hit by Hurricane Ike last month. Assistance remains focused in the devastated Galveston Island region; however, services are still being provided in the Pasadena and Beaumont areas.
Eighteen Salvation Army mobile feeding units (canteens) continue to serve meals in the Galveston area. The distribution of food boxes and clean-up kits continues in the coastal region, as well as emotional and spiritual care provided by trained Salvation Army emergency disaster services personnel and Salvation Army officers (pastors), assisted by reinforcement officers from The Salvation Army in Mexico.
As long-term recovery efforts are phased in, such emotional and spiritual care will become more of a necessity for Ike survivors. Starting Monday, Oct. 13, assistance through gift cards will be available to residents of all areas affected by Ike.
Monday, September 29, 2008
SALVATION ARMY RECEIVES $10 MILLION LILLY ENDOWMENT
FOR HURRICANE RELIEF
Last week The Salvation Army received a $10 million gift from the Lilly Endowment, Inc., to assist with ongoing relief efforts after hurricanes affected large segments of the Gulf Coast and Midwest with tidal damage, wind and flooding. This is the largest single gift to The Salvation Army during this year's hurricane season and equals the amount Lilly donated to The Salvation Army after Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
“Lilly Endowment traditionally has been one of The Salvation Army's most important funders and has demonstrated time and again its willingness to help us place resources at the point of greatest need,” said Commissioner Israel L. Gaither, national commander of The Salvation Army.
During this hurricane season, the Army has responded to five storms. In the wake of Hurricane Ike, The Salvation Army mobilized its largest disaster response since Katrina, deploying over 100 mobile feeding units (canteens), six mobile kitchens, satellite communications equipment and other resources, including thousands of officers, staff and volunteers. To date, The Salvation Army has served over 1.8 million meals to first responders and storm-affected residents over 22,000 square miles.
Lilly Endowment President N. Clay Robbins commented, “The Endowment began supporting the disaster relief efforts of The Salvation Army nearly 60 years ago, and they have consistently used our funding to maximum effect. The damage and myriad hardships caused by the 2008 hurricanes are daunting and compelling, and we are pleased to be able to support The Salvation Army's humanitarian work.”
Fresh Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) personnel have arrived to provide relief to weary EDS teams. It's anticipated that some of the hardest-hit areas will need continued feeding during the transition from emergency to long-term services. Clean-up kits, food boxes, first-aid and hygiene kits, plus clean socks and underwear, are also available. The Salvation Army has secured warehouse space in Texas City, Beaumont and Houston and is exploring working with Feeding America to assemble some 35,000 food boxes for distribution.
Additional Salvation Army emotional and spiritual care (ESC) teams are being deployed, some coming from The Salvation Army in Canada and Mexico. ESC personnel have been on the scene, offering comfort to residents and emergency workers, since day one of the disaster.
September 27, 2008
The Salvation Army's disaster operation for Hurricane Ike is now focused in three locations with incident commands headquartered in Beaumont, Pasadena/Houston, and Texas City, Texas. An ICS Area Command remains headquartered in Houston, providing oversight for the larger disaster operation. Corps in Conroe, Lufkin, and Freeport are also conducting emergency relief operations and mass care services in cooperation with the Area Command.
The busiest command remains the Texas City operation, which has relocated from a local high school to the Mall of the Mainland, in a Dillard's parking lot. Workers will be staying in two large tents -- a base camp set up by the state -- for the remainder of the operation. Texas City supervises the Army's operations on Galveston Island. The island was reopened to residents yesterday, and the Army joined with the Red Cross and Southern Baptists to deploy a fleet of feeding units and kitchens to the island to provide food for returning residents. The Army has deployed its 48-ft Texas field kitchen to the Lone Star Air Museum near Moody Gardens alongside two Baptist kitchens. Truckloads of clean-up kits have also been sent to Galveston and a satellite communications trailer.
As a whole, mass care feeding has begun to decline, particularly in inland areas where power has been restored within communities. Approximately 100 canteens remain deployed in the area, but that number is expected to about half by the end of this weekend. On September 23, the Army operated 56 stationary or mobile feeding sites within the disaster impacted area.
The Army's focus remains on mass care, particularly in the Galveston Area, and feeding. Bulk distribution of commodities, particularly food boxes and clean-up kits, is being ramped up. Additional Emotional and Spiritual Care teams are being deployed, some of which are coming from the Canadian and Mexican Salvation Army territories. The Army has secured warehouse space in Texas City, Beaumont, and Houston. The Salvation Army is exporing the opportunity to work with Feeding America to build some 35,000 food boxes for distribution.
Despite the decline in mass care needs, the Hurricane Ike relief operation is still a very large disaster operation. We still have three incidents commands in operation with new teams headed in today and tomorrow. GEO Division will be supervising operations in Beaumont; FLA Division Texas City; and NCV Pasadena/Houston. The Western Territory will be providing a leadership team to work under Major Gesner at the Area Command. The operation will be releasing some canteens and sending some units home. However, it is important to remember that at peak operations, more than 100 canteens were assigned to Ike. Even as the canteen fleet drops to half, that still leaves some 50 canteens serving and providing meals. A new rotation of canteen crews was deployed this week.
Since Ike's landfall, the Texas Division served more than 1.4 million meals. Prayer was offered to more than 11,000 people.
Ike also impacted sections of western Louisiana, causing severe flooding in Cameron Parish. Services are being coordinated out of The Salvation Army corps in Lake Charles, LA. More than 28,000 meals and 27,000 snacks meals have been served; 1,500 food boxes and 3,000 cleanup kits have been distributed.
Jeff Jellets, CEM
Territorial Disaster Coordinator
Monday, September15, 2008
SALVATION ARMY JOINS “STRIKE TEAMS” TO ASSESS HURRICANE IKE DAMAGE
The Salvation Army on Saturday deployed five mobile disaster response units as part of three Texas National Guard “Strike Teams” that are responding to storm-affected areas in the wake of Hurricane Ike. The Salvation Army will provide hot meals, hydration and emotional and spiritual care to military personnel, emergency responders and others affected by the storm. The three strike teams staged operations in Galveston, Lufkin and Beaumont, Tex., and will be planning for the long-term response during the next several days.
“The early indications are that this storm is the worst of the five we have already responded to in the 2008 hurricane season,” said Major Marshall Gesner, Greater Houston Area Commander for The Salvation Army. “With more than 4 million people without power, wide-spread flooding and high temperatures forecast for the area, our response will be about twice the size of our effort for Hurricane Gustav.”
As part of the operation, two Salvation Army mobile canteens units—equipped with commercial kitchen equipment—joined a caravan of nearly 35 military vehicles as they moved into Galveston. Two canteens staged an operation from Lufkin, while one is serving from Beaumont to serve recovery efforts near the Ford Arena.
The Salvation Army began staging its overall disaster response effort in San Antonio and Tyler earlier this week. In total, the Army has a fleet of more than 60 canteens on active duty for this storm. Three 48-foot, mobile kitchens are being deployed to the most affected areas. The Salvation Army also is using new satellite communications equipment that creates local phone and Internet networks for its incident command teams. Throughout Texas, the Army is supporting the evacuation and shelter effort in at least 12 locations.
The Salvation Army asks people who want to help those affected to visit www.salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Monetary donations are needed to meet survivors' most immediate needs. A $100 donation will feed a family of four for two days and will provide two cases of drinking water and one household cleanup kit (containing brooms, mops, buckets and cleaning supplies).
Monday, September 22, 2008
SALVATION ARMY CONTINUES RESPONSE TO HURRICANE IKE
The Salvation Army is currently running a two-pronged effort in its continued response to Hurricane Ike. The first is sheltering and feeding; the second is canteen operations in affected areas from inland Texas to the Gulf Coast.
The Salvation Army is sheltering approximately 75 people in Texarkana and 50 in Tyler. More than 180,000 meals have been provided from more than 60 locations. One hundred and ten mobile feeding units (canteens) have been deployed; as of this past weekend, canteens have served almost 260,000 meals to emergency workers and storm-affected residents.
Additionally, highly trained Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) personnel and Salvation Army officers (clergy) are meeting spiritual and emotional needs, considered just as important as physical needs. The Salvation Army has partnered with Victim Relief Ministries to provide council and prayer whenever appropriate. One storm-affected person said, “Just seeing the Army brings comfort to my spirit.” Salvation Army corps (churches) are also providing thrift-store clothing vouchers so evacuees can get clean clothes.
September 28, 2008
SALVATION ARMY SERVES OVERNIGHT IN GALVESTON, DEPLOYS TO HOUSTON, BEAUMONT AND LUFKIN
Initial ‘Strike Team' Surprised By Extent of Devastation
More than 100 Salvation Army mobile feeding units responded yesterday to the devastation wrought by Hurricane Ike in Texas. Several convoys of canteens and mobile kitchens moved into the disaster zone to begin serving the millions of people who are without power in the areas around Beaumont, Galveston, Houston and Lufkin. They join a contingent of Salvation Army relief workers who served overnight in some of the most devastated areas. Since the storm began, The Salvation Army has served nearly 52,000 meals to evacuees, emergency workers and those affected by the storm.
“Our ‘strike team' members were awed by the power of this storm and the extent of the devastation,” said Major Marshall Gesner, Greater Houston Area Commander for The Salvation Army. “Communications on the ground are difficult; there is no power, and the water system is compromised in many places. What this all means for us is a lot of hungry, thirsty people who are going to need relief for an extended period of time. We are calling on the public to help us mount a longterm response that could last several weeks or months.”
On Sunday a convoy of six canteens, plus a 48-foot kitchen and a satellite communications trailer, left a staging area in San Antonio to set up a command post at The Salvation Army Corps in Pasadena, Texas, outside Houston. At the same time, approximately 20 response vehicles moved from Tyler into Lufkin and other points of East Texas, and many will continue into Pasadena, Galveston and Texas City. Six canteens were still moving into the area from Florida, heading to a command post being set up in Beaumont. Dozens of canteens will continue feeding at sheltering locations throughout Texas that have been serving evacuees since the relief operation began. The canteens will be redeployed to the stricken region once the shelters no longer need them. Three canteens are in Cameron Parish, La., to assist residents who are now affected by a second hurricane in less than two weeks. Other vehicles from out of state will continue to be mobilized during then next several days.
The Salvation Army began staging its overall disaster response effort in San Antonio and Tyler earlier this week. For Hurricane Ike, The Salvation Army is undertaking its biggest operation of the 2008 hurricane season. Including the meals served during the past 48 hours, The Salvation Army has provided throughout the Gulf Coast nearly 1 million meals to people affected by Hurricanes Dolly, Fay, Gustav, Hanna and now, Hurricane Ike. The Army also has three other 48-foot, mobile kitchens which can serve more than 20,000 meals per day and is using new satellite communications equipment that creates local phone and Internet networks for its incident command teams. Throughout Texas, The Salvation Army is supporting the evacuation and shelter effort in at least 25 locations.
The Salvation Army asks people who want to help those affected to visit www.salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Monetary donations are needed to meet survivors' most immediate needs. A $100 donation will feed a family of four for two days and will provide two cases of drinking water and one household cleanup kit (containing brooms, mops, buckets and cleaning supplies).
Septermber 28, 2008
SALVATION ARMY CONTINUES RESPONSE TO HURRICANE GUSTAV
The Salvation Army has continued to serve in the Greater Baton Rouge Area and rural Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes (counties). Since August 31, over 400,000 meals have been served by The Salvation Army in Louisiana and Mississippi to residents and relief workers assisting in the recovery from Hurricane Gustav. Clean-up kits are also being provided; each includes a mop, broom, rags, cleaning supplies and bucket.
“Our desire is to reach deep into the bayous of South Louisiana with the message that each person and family is important to The Salvation Army and that their need is our need,” said Captain Don New of The Salvation Army.
In rural Terrebonne Parish yesterday, more than 50 New Orleans Hornets basketball team players, coaches and staff, led by owner George Shinn, came pouring out of their bus in a swarm to help residents recovering from Gustav. Cars containing residents seeking water, ice, food and encouragement from The Salvation Army were lined up heading into Houma, La., for over a half a mile.
The Hornets helped The Salvation Army serve over 10,000 hot meals and provide encouragement. George Shinn spent time greeting car passengers and interacting with children, leading them in Hornets cheers to provide a much needed diversion. The Hornets also gave away basketballs and distributed clean-up kits to the thousands of residents continuing to recover in Terrebonne Parish.
George Shinn commented, “The Salvation Army is a wonderful organization that reaches out to those in need, which speaks to my heart. We're proud to partner with them to provide our neighbors food and other resources to alleviate the stress that Hurricane Gustav has caused in our home state. This is a time to unite and work together because, while valuables and possessions can be replaced, the people of this region are irreplaceable.”
Captain Ethan Frizzell of The Salvation Army in New Orleans observed, “What a great way to support the community: two organizations partnering to bring hope, compassion and an uplifting experience to residents of Houma and Terrebonne Parish.”
September 25, 2008
SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS TO HURRICANE GUSTAV
Yesterday The Salvation Army transitioned from staging and evacuation support to emergency response as its incident command team for emergency disaster services (EDS) deployed its operations to impacted areas. Today the team is performing damage assessments and setting up a center of operations for the anticipated long-term recovery.
The Salvation Army has already served more than 110,000 meals throughout the Gulf Coast area as a result of Hurricane Gustav and has a feeding capacity of more than 560,000 meals. This includes food service for evacuees, volunteers and other emergency response workers who are helping in the evacuation. The Salvation Army has more than 100 mobile feeding units, four 54-foot mobile kitchens and multiple fixed feeding sites at its sites throughout the region. The Salvation Army also has 70 canteens on reserve should the need arise. It is operating approximately 15 shelters throughout the southeastern United States and is providing emotional and spiritual care to those in need.
As part of its disaster response operation, The Salvation Army also is prepared to provide: clean-up kits containing brooms, mops, buckets and cleaning supplies; hygiene kits, drinking water, shower units, first-aid supplies and missing persons support through the ham-radio volunteers of SATERN (Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network).
“The evacuations and preparations for Hurricane Gustav have been efficient and smooth so far,” said Major Gene Hogg. “This is a multi-state effort, and we're working closely with the state and local governments to help all those in need. We're anticipating severe property damage and are hoping and praying for all those who have been affected.”
Monetary donations earmarked “Disaster Relief” may be sent to your local Salvation Army, made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, July 24, 2008
THE SALVATION ARMY PROVIDES RELIEF AFTER DOLLY
Salvation Army disaster teams braced themselves yesterday as Hurricane Dolly made landfall in Texas as a Category 2 hurricane. With winds blowing up to 120 mph, Dolly is leaving her mark on South Texas .
Reports indicate that the initial damage is primarily in the South Padre Island, Port Isabel and Brownsville region. Thousands of Texans are without power in South Texas , as the danger of flooding increases. Salvation Army properties in Corpus Christi and Harlingen have not sustained noticeable damage.
The Salvation Army has 12 canteens (mobile feeding units) from across the state positioned in McAllen and are serving approximately 1,000 evacuees at the Salvation Army building there and several area schools.
Meals are being prepared in the McAllen shelter kitchen, transported and served from canteens, at four emergency shelter locations in Hidalgo County . The Salvation Army served 1,052 people during dinner on Wednesday night alone.
The Salvation Army shelter in McAllen opened Tuesday night and has the capacity to hold up to 200 evacuees; 167 people have been waiting out the storm within its walls.
Today canteens are being deployed into the affected areas, serving first responders and survivors of Hurricane Dolly.
Monday, June 16, 2008
SALVATION ARMY PROVIDING FLOOD RELIEF IN
ILLINOIS, MICHIGAN, MISSOURI AND WISCONSIN
As historic flooding continues to plague the Midwest Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams are responding in flood-affected communities across Iowa , Illinois , Indiana , Michigan and Wisconsin .
EDS personnel are bringing comfort and relief to emergency responders and residents after storms devastated 30 counties in southeastern Wisconsin . More than 15,000 flood clean-up kits have been distributed in 15 counties and The Salvation Army is working ‘round-the-clock with emergency officials to identify additional areas in need of support.
Flooding also has impacted communities in southern Illinois and Missouri . The Salvation Army is responding in Adams, Clark and Lawrence counties in Illinois , and Marion, Lewis and Lincoln counties in Missouri . In Lawrenceville , Ill. , EDS teams are serving emergency responders and residents three meals a day from a fixed feeding site at the Central Christian Church. They also are offering emotional and spiritual care.
Salvation Army emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens) have been deployed to feed sandbaggers in Quincy, Lawrenceville and York , Ill. , as well as Hannibal, Mo. Two hundred kits containing personal hygiene items have been distributed, and The Salvation Army is distributing bottled water in response to contaminated water supply due to flooding.
An EDS team responded in Ludington , Mich. , this weekend providing food and hydration to emergency responders after water levels near the Hamlin Dam rose two feet higher than normal. The Salvation Army is prepared to support residents from Lower Tamarack, a town near Hamlin Lake , which is under several feet of water and was evacuated over the weekend.
Monday, June 16, 2008
SALVATION ARMY PROVIDING FLOOD RELIEF IN
ILLINOIS, MICHIGAN, MISSOURI AND WISCONSIN
As historic flooding continues to plague the Midwest Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams are responding in flood-affected communities across Iowa , Illinois , Indiana , Michigan and Wisconsin .
EDS personnel are bringing comfort and relief to emergency responders and residents after storms devastated 30 counties in southeastern Wisconsin . More than 15,000 flood clean-up kits have been distributed in 15 counties and The Salvation Army is working ‘round-the-clock with emergency officials to identify additional areas in need of support.
Flooding also has impacted communities in southern Illinois and Missouri . The Salvation Army is responding in Adams, Clark and Lawrence counties in Illinois , and Marion, Lewis and Lincoln counties in Missouri . In Lawrenceville , Ill. , EDS teams are serving emergency responders and residents three meals a day from a fixed feeding site at the Central Christian Church. They also are offering emotional and spiritual care.
Salvation Army emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens) have been deployed to feed sandbaggers in Quincy, Lawrenceville and York , Ill. , as well as Hannibal, Mo. Two hundred kits containing personal hygiene items have been distributed, and The Salvation Army is distributing bottled water in response to contaminated water supply due to flooding.
An EDS team responded in Ludington , Mich. , this weekend providing food and hydration to emergency responders after water levels near the Hamlin Dam rose two feet higher than normal. The Salvation Army is prepared to support residents from Lower Tamarack, a town near Hamlin Lake , which is under several feet of water and was evacuated over the weekend.
June 14,2008
SALVATION ARMY CONTINUES TORNADO RELIEF IN KANSAS
The Salvation Army continues to provide tornado relief in three Kansas communities that were devastated by tornadoes Wednesday evening. As of Friday morning Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) personnel have served 2,500 meals to emergency responders, clean-up crews and residents in Chapman, Manhattan and Solider, Kan.
More than 20 Salvation Army staff members and volunteers are bringing aid in the affected communities. Two Salvation Army emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens) are stationed in Chapman and one in Manhattan .
The Salvation Army also is providing direct financial assistance to tornado survivors for basic necessities such as food, personal items, clothing and prescriptions. Personnel trained in critical incident stress management are offering emotional and spiritual care.
June 14, 2008
SALVATION ARMY BRINGS AID IN RESPONSE TO IOWA FLOODING
Across Iowa Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams are bringing aid to emergency responders and residents dealing with historical flooding including Cedar Rapids where the Cedar River has overtaken 400 city blocks.
According to Amy Grunewaldt, incident commander for The Salvation Army's relief efforts in Cedar Rapids , the organization is coordinating and providing all meals and hydration in Cedar Rapids as well as Palo, a small town that has been completely evacuated. EDS volunteers and personnel have served 11,168 drinks and 5,370 meals to approximately 6,100 residents, emergency responders and volunteers.
In Iowa City The Salvation Army served 1,078 meals in one day and brought comfort and hope to 2,438 individuals. The Salvation Army is bringing aid in the Waterloo/Cedar Falls area as well serving 1,348 meals and 1,100 snacks so far. Salvation Army EDS teams also are responding in Elkader, Bonaparte and Burlington , Iowa , and Henderson and Sangamon counties in Illinois .
Thursday, June 12, 2008
SALVATION ARMY BRINGS COMFORT FOLLOWING DEADLY TORNADOES IN IOWA AND KANSAS
The Salvation Army deployed emergency disaster services (EDS) teams after deadly tornadoes hit Kansas and Iowa last night. The Salvation Army responded moments after a tornado tore through the Little Sioux Scout Ranch in western Iowa killing four boys and injuring 48 others. In Kansas EDS teams brought aid after a string of tornadoes killed two people and damaged three communities.
At the request of Iowa emergency management officials, Salvation Army emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens) were stationed at the emergency management command post located at Mondamin School. EDS personnel remained on the scene throughout the night providing comfort by serving food and offering hydration to emergency responders as well as scouts, leaders and parents dealing with this tragedy. The Salvation Army is working with other organizations to ensure all needs are met and remains on standby to assist as needed.
“We were the only organization serving all response personnel, as well as the kids and later their parents. We saw how the Boy Scouts of America truly train their young men to be prepared. There were lots of heroes out there, and it was a privilege to serve them,” said J.J. Kuzma, in charge of The Salvation Army's emergency disaster services efforts in qestern Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota.
In Kansas The Salvation Army is providing meals, financial assistance and offering
emotional and spiritual care to residents and emergency responders affected by the deadly tornadoes that left a trail of destruction across north central portions of the state. Two canteens have been sent to assist residents in Chapman, Kan., a town that was nearly destroyed by the twister. A third canteen is stationed in Manhattan, Kan., where a tornado damaged several buildings on the Kansas State University Campus, and fourth is serving in the small town of Soldier where one person was killed.
In addition, The Salvation Army continues to respond to monumental flooding in Iowa, Indiana and Wisconsin. Those interested in volunteering to assist in the Iowa flood relief effort should call (402) 898-6000 or visit www.givesalvationarmy.org
Monday, June 9, 2008
SALVATION ARMY RESPONDING IN WAKE OF MIDWEST STORMS
Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) personnel are responding after storms raged across the country's midsection over the weekend leaving death and destruction in their wake. Communities across the Midwest , many already ravaged by earlier storms, are receiving much needed aid and comfort from EDS teams.
For over a week Salvation Army EDS personnel in Indiana have been working non-stop in response to disasters including a tornado that touched down in Indianapolis and the worst flooding the state has seen in 100 years. EDS teams were deployed to Morgan and Shelby counties to bring aid to residents and emergency responders dealing with the historic flooding. In Shelby County a shelter has been set-up at The Salvation Army's Shelbyville Corps, center for worship and service, located at 136 E. Washington St . Salvation Army emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens) have been deployed to Flat Rock, Middletown and Marietta to provide food and hydration to flood survivors. Flood clean-up kits have been sent to Martinsville in Morgan County and a fixed feeding site has been established at the Emergency Operations Center . In addition, The Salvation Army continues to assist residents of the Falcon Point Apartments who lost their homes when a tornado hit Indianapolis last week.
In Iowa , The Salvation Army is bringing relief to residents in New Hartford who were evacuated over the weekend due to flooding. The evacuations come just two weeks after a deadly tornado ravaged much of their town. EDS teams also are responding to flooding in Logan , Denison , Mason City and Charles City .
Devastating flooding has ravaged areas of Wisconsin as well. In response, The Salvation Army is providing food and shelter in affected counties including Sauk, Crawford and Vernon . Flood clean-up kits have been distributed in affected areas including 150 in the Oak Creek area.
The Salvation Army in Nebraska is responding after a tornado touched down in Millard, a southwest suburb of Omaha . Additional EDS teams are bringing aid in the towns of Ceresco and Karney that were hit by the destructive storms.
June 6,2008
THE SALVATION ARMY CONTINUES TO SERVE RAVAGED WINDSOR
Over 14,000 meals served and CISM team providing emotional and spiritual care
DENVER, CO (June 5, 2008) – Two weeks following the devastating tornado that ravaged Windsor, CO, The Salvation Army continues to provide emergency disaster relief. The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) is serving approximately 500 meals a day to the emergency personnel and residents. Additionally, EDS is providing emotional and spiritual care to over 100 residents with their Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team. CISM volunteers are trained specifically to offer comfort and support in times of crises.
There are currently two mobile canteens serving beverages, snacks and meals from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The locations of the mobile canteens are:
· Cornerstone Baptist Church: 1200 Cornerstone Dr., Windsor, CO
· One roaming canteen will be providing food and beverages in the damaged neighborhoods in Windsor.
Individuals seeking emergency disaster relief assistance may call:
· Fort Collins Corps – 970.207.4472
· Greeley Corps – 970.346.1661
June 1, 2008
Windsor Colorado Tornado Update We have served over 11,000 meals, 35,000 snacks, and over 140,000 drinks, through today from the two locations. It has been pretty warm outdoors the last few days. Envoy Koch from our Divisional Headquarters and Jamie Garcia from Family Services spent several days in Windsor issuing vouchers and gift cards to a few families who came to the donations distribution center. Our Emotional and Spiritual Care team has made many productive contacts and have followed up with those they are most concerned about since the time of the tornado. Captain's Sproule, Greeley Corps, have been here working long hours and thanks to Captain David Leonard, who also attended a meeting the Windsor churches today, they finally took a day off. Captain John Bennett, South Valley was here on Saturday and represented us well. We continue to serve three meals per day, although there are always snacks and sandwiches and cold drinks available around the clock. We're are averaging over 500 meals per day at our primary location. We brought up a small mobile feeding unit (catering truck) and we'll start searching out work parties outside of the Windsor town limits. Ham radio operators continue to support our communication needs and to assist with some logistics needs. It is interesting to me that on this disaster we have deployed all but one of the vehicles purchased with the Consoritium grant, the water tank trailer. Everything else is in Windsor. We shut down the Windsor Middle School site today. The mobile kitchen assigned there was driven back to Denver tonight.Some equipment is still at the location. Meal counts were down at the location for several days and we decided not to setup near FEMA and the Recreation Center because activity there is or will be diminishing. It is my understanding that the American Red Cross feeding effort has stopped. The pickup and the trailer generator will go back to Denver on Sunday AM. The US Food Trailer was moved to the Cornerstone Baptist church property today. At one point we prepared meals and the American Red Cross delivered them. The Red Cross also had their ERV's (Emergency Response Vehicles) deliver food around the impacted area. We will continue to assess the need for meals. I suspect, but I'm not certain, we'll be doing meals for at least another week. LDS (Latter Day Saints) have been delivering drinks and food through the neighborhoods. They represent us and they wear our EDS uniforms. They have been a great partner, faithful to be here every day from morning to night. I couldn't ask for more dedicated volunteers.
Mary Orem, Volunteer Director, has got us setup with volunteers from the community and with the leadership from the Denver volunteers we have been able to sustain the operation. CAP (Civil Air Patrol) provided logistical support to us for the first few days of the operation under our MOU (Memorandum of Understanding). What a great group they were. SATERN ham radio operators and members of the Denver Radio Club have been providing ham radio support since day one. Ham's pass messages from me to the field when I am some distance from the command post, monitor weather, keep radio batteries charge and perform a variety of other tasks. We are trying to develop local volunteers into EDS leaders so that some can help run a shift and we've identified a few.
Karen Gelski and one of her driver's, from our Food Warehouse in Denver, delivered to us supplies such as ice, equipment and paper products with the Red Shield on them two times so far. Our storage space includes a 40' US Foodservice Refrigerated Trailer, two 20' storage containers and our 16' long supply trailer.
I went to the FEMA Recovery Center today as well as The Seventh Day Adventists/Windsor Donations Reception location today. They have started to turn away clothing donations.
Mike Gelski
The Salvation Army Incident Commander
Weld/Larimer County Tornadoes
PS Keep in mind that historicly June is the month with more severe weather in Colorado than does May.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Release #3
SALVATION ARMY PROVIDES TRAINING TO
LOCAL RELIEF WORKERS IN MYANMAR
Plans for long-term relief in Myanmar are in the works as The Salvation Army continues to meet immediate needs of residents attempting to recover from the deadly cyclone that reeked havoc on the nation earlier this month. Currently, The Salvation Army is distributing four-day food ration packs and clothing and providing tarpaulins for shelter.
“Our local personnel have been able to travel south of Yangon and into the impacted areas. The suspicions surrounding incoming relief workers has been well publicized, so as our teams move into areas where The Salvation Army has no existing presence they are having to be careful with how they operate,” said Commissioner David Bringans, who oversees The Salvation Army's work in Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar.
After arriving in Myanmar Major Mike Caffull, member of The Salvation Army's international emergency disaster services team, met with Salvation Army leaders to be updated on the organization's efforts. During the briefing the need to train local relief team members in conducting assessments and shaping plans for the next phase of relief became evident.
In response, Major Caffull trained 50 local relief team members who are using their new skills to assess how The Salvation Army can continue to be of help, including clarifying the availability of in-country supplies and the viability of obtaining goods being shipped from abroad.
“We give thanks for Major Caffull's safe arrival and the positive spirit he has encountered among the local relief personnel,” said Major Cedric Hills, Salvation Army international emergency disaster services coordinator. “The next few days will be significant as the team expands its assessment.”
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
SALVATION ARMY BRINGS AID FOLLOWING MIDWEST TORNADOES
Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams were deployed after severe storms pummeled the Midwest over the Memorial Day weekend, killing at least seven people and leaving hundreds more homeless. Salvation Army teams continue to provide help and hope in affected areas including Minnesota and Iowa .
Salvation Army units are providing meals and emergency relief in Parkersburg , New Hartford and Hazelton , Iowa , after a devastating tornado killed six people and damaged more than 400 homes. A Salvation Army EDS vehicle (canteen) is stationed at the New Hartford fire station, and another vehicle is roving affected neighborhoods bringing relief to residents. Two additional units are arriving today to assist in the effort. According to Major Jerry O'Neil, who oversees The Salvation Army's work in the Waterloo/Cedar Rapids area, the local Salvation Army was devastated to learn that an employee's home was completely demolished by the storm, but they rejoice that her family is safe.
In Minnesota , three EDS teams are responding in Hugo by providing emotional and spiritual care as well as meals to emergency responders, volunteers and residents as they pick through shattered homes searching for personal items.
“Part of the process in this cleanup effort is providing residents time to process their loss and take control again,” said Chrissie Morrison, emergency disaster services director for The Salvation Army in Minnesota and North Dakota . “While it may look like piles of rubble, it is the remnants of lives, and respecting that is extremely important for healing. This is where our trained volunteers and pastors add a measure of security and calm.”
Morrison expects there will be a need for social service assistance in the future as families assess the damage and seek financial assistance.
“As families wait for insurance payments or government assistance they still have basic needs. The Salvation Army helps provide these when financial resources are low. There will likely be families needing our help for weeks or even months to come. We will serve as long as our expertise is needed and resources are available,” said Morrison.
Friday, May 23, 2008
SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS TO COLORADO TORNADOES
The Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams responded yesterday after tornadoes ripped through northern Colorado killing one person and injuring dozens more. The Salvation Army is serving 900 meals a day to emergency responders and residents impacted by the storms.
Three Salvation Army emergency disaster response vehicles (canteens) are stationed in Windsor, Colo. The Salvation Army also is providing meals to seniors in nursing homes and already has served 120 meals.
“Our hearts go out to those who have been impacted by the tornadoes. The Salvation Army will be in northern Colorado serving as long as we're needed,” said Envoy Gerald Koch, who is in charge of The Salvation Army's emergency disaster services efforts in Colorado . “A lot of people are asking us how they can help, and the best ways is by giving financially to The Salvation Army.”
May 26,2008
The Salvation Army continues to serve hot meals in Windsor Colorado after a EF2-EF3 tornado hit the community hard on Thursday, May 22nd. One person for was killed when the tornado cut a 35 mile path through Weld County and was on the ground for 45 minutes. 200 power poles and 4 power substations were in the tornado's path. One mobile kitchen is setup at the Windsor Middle School and is serving responders, US Army and Air Force, National Guard, and other workers. Another kitchen is located in one of the hardest hit neighborhoods. We are also preparing other food that is being transported by us and the American Red Cross to a special needsd population of 140 senior citizens who have been without power since the tornado. The Southern Baptists have a kitchen setup that is supporting the American Red Cross ERV's. Today our Emotional Spirtual Care team worked the hard hit neigborhood while passing out food and beverages. One woman who had major damage to her home had a group of 80 people assisting her with cleanup. About lunch time she realized that she needed to provide food for them. She came to a canteen and asked if there was anyway that we could help out and of course we did. Tonight at dinner she shared with me, with tears running down her face, that although she had lost almost everything she felt blessed because of the food. The Colorado Wing of the Civil Air Patrol is handling our logistics with seniors and cadets from 6 am - 10 pm daily. Members of the Denver Radio Club and local SATERN members are supporting our communications needs. A radio tower and a mobile commerical UHF reperater and handheld radios have been setup in Windsor. We are also utilizing 70 cm ham radio for communications back to Denver. The volume of communications traffic makes cell phones. Not only is SATERN handling some radio traffic but they are keep radios charge and ready for use by our team on the ground. We have been operating on generator power from the beginning. The initial response to the tornado was from the Captain's Sproule from the Greeley Corps. Two Denver kitchens were dispatched. Envoy Gerald Koch was at the EOC for a couple of days and tomorrow he will be overseeing casework services for the families. Captain's Halverson from Fort Collins Corps have been involved in the coordination of food donations. On Sunday casework services will begin, Salvation Army vouchers will be written for the residents when the American Red Cross opens there Service Center. We have served of 3900 meals since the tornado hit. Our volunteers are doing an outstanding job and working long hours. The county health department came through today and after inspecting our 2nd kitchen told me that they thought out people should teach a class on how to run a mobile food operation to commericial vendors.
Mike Gelski
Metro Denver Coordinator
Emergency Disaster Services/Special Events
KB0PVD USA Western Territory SATERN Coordinator
303-906-4695 mobile
303-296-0131 fax "It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark"
Preparedness is Protection
SALVATION ARMY CONSIDERS LONG-TERM PLANS FOR CHINA RELIEF
A Salvation Army assessment team is working to identify how best to support the Chinese earthquake recovery effort as the government deals with the horrific aftermath that has left 5 million people homeless and more than 40,000 dead in the Sichuan Province.
Under the leadership of Major Tommy Chan, the three-person team is in Chengdu, Sichuan Province and is working with authorities to see how the organization can be of aid. Salvation Army representatives also are in discussion with other religious organizations to make plans for a trauma counseling program. In addition, Lt. Colonel Merv Rowland, who oversees The Salvation Army's work in Hong Kong and Macau, and Simon Wong, relief coordinator, are traveling to China later this week to meet with the Government's Civil Affairs Department to discuss rehabilitation needs.
“The Chinese government's relief teams are completing their search and rescue efforts. Our own assessment team located in an area where The Salvation Army is well known is liaising with the authorities. Plans for our involvement in the long-term recovery efforts will become clearer later this week,” said Lt. Colonel Rowland.
“The Salvation Army is well placed to participate in the long-term rehabilitation needs as our local personnel have experience working in this region,” said Major Cedric Hills, Salvation Army international emergency services coordinator. “The financial appeal launched in Hong Kong as been received very positively. Already local donations have exceeded $835,000. While we are grateful for this tremendous public support and the trust placed in The Salvation Army, we realize the needs in the area will be extensive.”
May 21, 2008
SALVATION ARMY EMERGENCY SERVICES REPRESENTATIVE
ON WAY TO MYANMANR
After being granted a long-awaited visa, Major Mike Caffull, a Salvation Army International Services representative based out of London, England, is en route to help and advise the local teams already responding to the devastating cyclone that hit the country on May 3 rd killing over 78,000 people. Within hours of the cyclone's landfall, local Salvation Army personnel were giving help and support to survivors despite the difficulties in receiving assistance.
“Our people in Myanmar have been working tirelessly since the cyclone hit their country. There are four teams of people distributing aid in and around Yangon (Rangoon) and among the small badly damaged townships surrounding the city. Safe water, food and shelter equipment have their priority as the work continues,” said Commissioner David Bringans, who oversees The Salvation Army's work in Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar.
The widely-reported difficulties to receive visas for aid workers has hampered The Salvation Army's effort from outside Myanmar, but when Major Caffull arrives he will assess how the organization can further meet immediate needs as well as assist in the long-term recovery efforts. The most pressing task is to assess the extent to which the local teams are able to carry out necessary emergency response work and help them decide what action needs to be taken in the coming days.
Other humanitarian groups are partnering with The Salvation Army. With difficulty getting access to the country continuing to be a problem, they are grateful for the organization's infrastructure and influence in the country.
“Despite the difficulties being encountered regarding access and supplies, I am hoping my visit to Myanmar will assist the teams already working there and helping the international Salvation Army plan for the next phase of recovery,” said Major Caffull.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Salvation Army provides service after devastating storms in Oklahoma and Arkansas
In the deadly aftermath of storms in Arkansas and Oklahoma at the end of last week, The Salvation Army has been providing emergency disaster relief.
In Grant, Cleburne , and Van Buren counties in Arkansas , 128 homes were damaged and 50 destroyed. Many areas lost power. Salvation Army canteens (mobile kitchens) from Fayetteville and Fort Smith , set up feeding sites in Damascus . A canteen from Pine Bluff served south of Sheridan , while a canteen from El Dorado set up a feeding site between Woodson and Hensley beginning Saturday morning. The number of homes and structures damaged is still being assessed.
Captain Ernest Hull of Pine Buff, serving as incident commander for the area, is continuing to assess damage. Due to the number of storms that hammered Arkansas , reports are still coming in. As the need arises, additional support for feeding and other services will be deployed.
In Oklahoma tornadoes touched down in rural areas causing minor damage to structures, while golf ball size hail caused major damage in other areas. Some hail storms lasted up to 10 minutes.
Major John Birks, director of disaster services, and Alton Gardner, disaster services coordinator, for The Salvation Army in Oklahoma and Arkansas have been in touch with personnel across the state to assess what services are needed where.
Monday, May 5, 2008
Salvation Army provides relief after tornadoes in Kansas
The Salvation Army continues to provide assistance to Kansas City area neighborhoods affected by tornadoes with wind speeds up to 135 mph early Friday morning. As of Sunday evening, the organization had provided meals to more than 2,200 people through its mobile canteens (feeding units). The canteens are out again today, providing food and beverages to cleanup workers, volunteers, law enforcement officers and residents. The Salvation Army is prepared to assist individuals and families who have been displaced from their homes and are in need of basic necessities including shelter, food, clothing, medicine and other basic necessities.
Friday, February 15, 2008
SALVATION ARMY BRINGS COMFORT FOLLOWING HORRIFIC SHOOTING AT NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY
The Salvation Army immediately responded yesterday after a gunman entered a lecture hall on the Northern Illinois University campus in DeKalb , Ill. , and opened fire killing six people and injuring at least 15 others before turning the gun on himself. Salvation Army emergency disaster services personnel worked with university police to provide support and emotional and spiritual care to law enforcement officials and students.
Meals, beverages and refreshments have been served from a Salvation Army canteen that was deployed to the scene. In addition, Salvation Army officers (pastors) trained in critical incident stress management were on the scene to provide comfort to law enforcement officials and students devastated by the tragedy.
Captains Alex and Aimee Norton, who oversee The Salvation Army's work in DeKalb , Ill. , have a vital ministry on the NIU campus and were a comfort to many students dealing with the horrors that occurred on their campus. A prayer service was held last night at The Salvation Army's DeKalb Corps and Community Center (center for worship and service) and prayer rooms were made available to students throughout the night.
February 8, 2008
SALVATION ARMY CONTINUES RELIEF EFFORT IN RESPONSE TO SUPER TUESDAY TORNADO OUTBREAK
Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams continue to bring comfort and hope to first responders and residents in states across the south that were slammed by the deadliest barrage of tornadoes since 1985. Within moments The Salvation Army was providing aid following the storms that killed at least 57 people and left hundreds more homeless.
In Alabama , The Salvation Army is providing meals and hydration in Lawrence and Jackson counties. The Salvation Army served over 500 meals on Wednesday from a fixed feeding site in Lawrence County and three emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens) that continue to bring comfort to residents and responders sorting through the debris. In Jackson County The Salvation Army served 250 meals yesterday from a canteen stationed at the Town Hall in Pisgah. Salvation Army social workers also are providing assistance at the community center in Rosalie.
Salvation Army volunteers and personnel have established a fixed feeding site in Oxford , Miss. , located at the Lafayette County Central Fire Station. Yesterday, The Salvation Army offered residents social service assistance at the North Oxford Baptist Church .
As residents in Arkansas deal with the devastation the storms left behind The Salvation Army is providing for their physical, emotional and spiritual needs. Salvation Army canteens have been deployed to Van Buren, Pope, Baxter and Sharp counties.
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According to emergency officials the largest number of fatalities occurred in Tennessee where 32 people were killed. The Salvation Army is responding in impacted areas across the state including Madison, Macon and Shelby counties. In less than two days The Salvation Army served over 200 meals in Shelby County alone. EDS teams also are stationed at the command post by Union University Campus where 26 students had to be rescued after being trapped in the rubble of dormitories destroyed by a tornado.
Tornadoes left death and destruction in their wake across Kentucky as well. In Muhlenberg County The Salvation Army has served 550 meals from canteens roving neighborhoods in Powderly and Greenville . Additional disaster relief efforts are taking place in Monroe, Hardin, Harrison and Christian counties.
Friday, February 8, 2008
SALVATION ARMY PROVIDES EMERGENCY DISASTER RELIEF IN WISCONSIN DURING BLIZZARD
Salvation Army personnel provided relief to dozens of drivers in Wisconsin who found themselves stranded Wednesday following the worst snowstorm of the season. Governor Jim Doyle declared a state of emergency for Dane and Rock counties after snow totals reached as high as 20 inches.
The Salvation Army provided hot meals and shelter to drivers who were stuck on I-90 after semitrailer trucks were paralyzed on an icy portion of the road east of Stoughton , Wis. The Salvation Army in Janesville , Wis. , opened its doors to stranded motorists providing emergency care to families. Authorities believe more than 800 automobiles were affected by the backup.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, February 7, 2008
SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS TO TORNADO OUTBREAK IN THE SOUTH
The Salvation Army quickly responded after the deadliest wave of tornadoes to hit the southern states in a decade killed at least 55 people. Salvation Army emergency disaster service vehicles (canteens) were deployed in Arkansas , Alabama , Mississippi and Tennessee to provide assistance and relief to emergency responders as well as hundreds of residents, many who lost everything in the storms.
“We are prepared to offer hydration, snacks, warm meals, and emotional and spiritual care to residents and first responders affected by these storms for as long as the need exists,” said Bill Feist, who oversees The Salvation Army's emergency disaster services efforts in the southern states.
In Arkansas , five canteens were deployed to provide assistance in Adkins, Clinton and the Gasville/Cotter communities. The Salvation Army continues to assess damages throughout the state in order to meet needs.
In Mississippi , The Salvation Army has established a feeding site at the Lafayette County Central Fire Station near County Roads 291 and 204. Moments after the storm struck, The Salvation Army was providing comfort to over 200 people by serving meals, providing hydration and offering emotional and spiritual support.
In Alabama , Salvation Army personnel have been providing snacks, hydration, and emotional and spiritual care to Lawrence County residents in response to the horrific storms that killed four people in the state. In addition to the canteen, a Salvation Army feeding site has been opened at the Tractor Supply in Moulton , Ala. , on Highway 57.
Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) personnel also are responding in Tennessee which is thought to be the hardest-hit by the storms. At least 31 died in Tennessee as a result of the tornadoes. More than 14 Salvation Army EDS teams are bringing comfort and hope to first responders and residents in communities throughout the state including Jackson , Tenn. , which sustained significant damage.
February 5, 2008
From Mike Gelski Weatern SATERN Coordinator
Thursday, January 10, 2008
SALVATION ARMY BRINGS AID TO MIDWESTERNERS
AFFECTED BY FLOODING
Midwesterners are still battling the effects of Monday's bizarre January severe weather outbreak that included tornadoes, heavy rains and damaging straight-line winds. The Salvation Army continues to assist residents in Wisconsin , northern Illinois and Missouri who are assessing tornado damage while offering aid to communities affected by flooding from heavy rains coupled with melting snow.
Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams were deployed to Pontiac , Ill. , after several inches of rain caused the Vermillion River to overflow its banks forcing many residents to evacuate their homes. In addition to meeting the needs of those whose homes have sustained water damage, Salvation Army EDS personnel and volunteers are part of a community sandbagging effort in the hopes of saving additional homes.
With roads and houses still under water in northern Indiana residents have been unable to return to their homes. A Salvation Army emergency disaster services vehicle (canteen) has been deployed to Tippecanoe County to bring comfort and aid to residents and emergency responders.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS TO RARE JANUARY TORNADOES IN MIDWEST
Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams responded after rare January storms swept through the Midwest on Monday leaving destruction in their wake. Tornadoes were reported in Missouri, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Illinois and Oklahoma. Hundreds of homes were damaged, trains were derailed and two people in Missouri were killed as a result of the storms.
In Wisconsin , EDS personnel provided food and beverages to emergency response personnel and more than 100 residents who were affected by the twisters that touched down in Wheatland and Kenosha . Hot meals were prepared at The Salvation Army's Army Lake Camp which is located 20 minutes outside Wheatland. The Salvation Army also is assisting residents with housing needs.
“You expect typical snow storm weather in the winter, but not tornadoes in January,” said Terri Leece, who coordinates The Salvation Army's disaster relief efforts throughout Wisconsin and Upper Michigan .
In Missouri , The Salvation Army provided assistance at a shelter in Webster County . EDS teams were placed on standby to assist in other areas impacted by the storm as needed.
Monday, November 26, 2007
SALVATION ARMY IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA RESPONDS TO CYCLONE GUBA
The Salvation Army in Papua New Guinea is responding to Cyclone Guba which caused devastating flooding in the country's eastern provinces. The death toll is at 163, but the number is expected to rise as health experts predict an increase in water-born diseases including cholera, dysentery and malaria.The storm has affected nearly 150,000 people with more than 1,000 residents displaced or missing. Official have declared a state of emergency, and damages are estimated at $70 million.
Captain Kila Gaba is leading a team of health workers and volunteers in Popondetta. They are doing all they can to assist people in need with the limited resources available to them. A Salvation Army emergency disaster services team also has been flown from Port Moresby , the capital city, to Popondetta to assist in the effort.
The most immediate needs are for food, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities and medical supplies. Many of the destroyed villages are in low-lying areas where water levels were as high as the roof tops.
“The Salvation Army has secured supplies to take to the disaster area which include food, shelters, fresh water, medicine, mosquito nets and clothing,” said Lt. Colonel James Condon, who is second in command of The Salvation Army's work in Papua New Guinea . “We are addressing the communities' immediate needs as the first step along the way to recovery.”
Funding is being urgently sought for this disaster that seems to have been ignored by most of the world's media. Monetary donations may be sent your local Salvation Army earmarked “Disaster Relief,” made online at www.salvationarmy.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Release #2
BANGLADESH CYCLONE RELIEF CONTINUES
The Salvation Army continues to bring help and hope to the multitudes who have been impacted by Cyclone Sidr which is being called the worst disaster to hit Bangladesh in over a decade. Bramwell Ryan, a member of The Salvation Army in Canada , was working in the region when the storm hit. He has joined The Salvation Army's relief team in the Gopalgong District and shares the following story of a family who is being assisted:
I caught up with Captain Kalpona Biswas as she crossed a small lake to visit two particularly badly-hit homes, talk with the owners and determine the extent of their need. These homes were out in the open. They did not suffer from falling trees, as many other houses have, but the wind was forceful enough to cause extensive damage.
The story of Hafiza Begum, 45, is especially touching. Hafiza lives with her husband, a day laborer, one of her five sons and his wife. Their home, completed last year, represents seven years of savings. This was all the family owned.
The son was a rickshaw driver, but just before Cyclone Sidr struck his rickshaw was stolen. With a husband with intermittent income and a son with no income, the family has no home and no revenue. When the storm struck it not only collapsed their home, but the internal wooden pillars were all snapped, making them no longer useful for rebuilding. With the Bangladesh winter almost here, the family is looking to The Salvation Army for food, seed and possibly building supplies.
Food rations, rice and lentils, are being distributed by Salvation Army teams to around 12,500 people. Farmers will be supported with seeds to replant rice fields and shelter materials are being distributed to help reconstruct damaged homes.
Monday, November 19, 2007
SALVATION ARMY BRINGS AID FOLLOWING EARTHQUAKE IN CHILE
Salvation Army emergency disaster services teams responded in northern Chile after an earthquake shook the region causing buildings to collapse and injuring 115 people. In addition to the original shock that measured 7.7 on the Richter scale, aftershocks have been plaguing the area causing additional damage.
“The community most severely affected was Tocopilla, where 2,600 homes were destroyed and another 2,500 suffered severe structural damage,” said Lt. Colonel Susan McMillan, who is second in command of The Salvation Army's South America West Territory that includes the countries of Chile , Bolivia , Ecuador and Peru . “The quake also was felt in southern Peru , but no damage or injuries have been reported there.”
The Salvation Army has centers and officers (pastors) that minister to people every day in the areas hit by the earthquake. This allowed The Salvation Army to respond immediately and assist residents affected by the quake despite suffering many of their own losses.
“The Salvation Army recently started a ministry in Tocopilla and a house that was renovated for the officer in charge, Captain Clauris Morales, was destroyed. Captain Morales was unharmed. He is removing what items of value he can salvage before the home is bulldozed along with others in the city in similar condition.”
According to McMillan the neighborhood was hit hard by the devastating quake and Salvation Army teams from surrounding areas are providing meals to residents who are now living in tents. Salvation Army officers are also providing emotional and spiritual care.
Monday, November 19, 2007
SALVATION ARMY ASSISTS CYCLONE SURVIVORS IN BANGLADESH
As people throughout Bangladesh struggle to cope following the horrific cyclone disaster Salvation Army relief teams are working to bring help and hope to those impacted in the Gopalgong region. Cyclone Sidr is the worst storm to hit Bangladesh in more than a decade killing at least 3,000 people with officials estimating the death toll could rise as high as 15,000. In addition it is believed that a million people were left homeless by the storm.
Lt. Colonel Ethne Flintoff, who is in charge of The Salvation Army's work in Bangladesh, reports that the greatest needs in the region are for food and rice seeds so farmers can replant their fields before it's too late in the season. The Salvation Army also hopes to help replace livestock that were killed in flooding.
“Once these essential relief supplies are in place we will be distributing roofing materials and bamboo to help families rebuild their homes. In the area where we are working most, houses collapsed or lost roofs, but people were able to save their possessions. We are working closely with the local village leaders and indentifying those most in need,” said Flintoff.
To help meet immediate needs The Salvation Army's International Headquarters in London , England , has sent $100,000 to the region.
“The damage is extensive and reconstruction needs will be great. This initial support will be used up all too quickly. As the assessment team is granted more access to the impacted areas, greater needs are unfolding,” said Major Cedric Hills, international emergency services coordinator for The Salvation Army.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Release # 5
SALVATION ARMY ASSISTS RESIDENTS WHO LOST HOMES IN
CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES
The Salvation Army has sent four emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens) to one of the most impoverished areas of San Diego , Calif. , where hundreds of residents lost their homes in the recent wildfires. In addition, a 30-foot Salvation Army emergency disaster services mobile kitchen has been deployed. The kitchen is capable of serving up to 3,000 meals and snacks a day and brewing 27 gallons of coffee per hour. Salvation Army personnel are assisting at least 200 people taking shelter in a tent city located at the intersection of 94 and Barrett Lake Road . The city includes bathroom facilities, showers and generators.
As of Friday, The Salvation Army has served 120,000 people in response to the wildfires. The Salvation Army also has given out $442,150 in gift cards and vouchers to help residents replace some of what was lost in the fires. To assist residents attempting to sort through the ashes of what is left of their homes, The Salvation Army has distributed shovels, rakes and sifters.
In addition to providing for people's physical needs, Salvation Army emergency disaster services personnel trained in critical incident stress management are providing emotional and spiritual care. The two-person teams drive through burned-out areas providing water, snacks and comfort.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Release # 4
SALVATION ARMY CONTINUES CALIFORNIA WILDFIRE RESPONSE
As the California wildfire crisis enters its fifth day, The Salvation Army continues to provide relief and support to those in need in San Diego County and other impacted regions. Among other efforts, today the Army opened a firestorm assistance center in El Centro to help meet the needs of evacuees from San Diego County . It also continued to mobilize nine emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens), and has six others on call. The canteens have fed more than 31,000 meals and snacks as well 35,000 drinks to individuals impacted by the disaster, including thousands at Qualcomm stadium. The Army has also provided personal care kits, cots, cups and other materials, as well as emotional and spiritual care.
“Our focus continues to be helping people who have evacuated from their homes, and providing food and comfort to first responders,” said Lt. Col Doug O'Brien, who oversees The Salvation Army's Sierra Del Mar Division which includes San Diego County . “At the same time, we are planning for the long-term recovery and need monetary donations to ensure we can help the most people possible in rebuilding their homes and lives. We are always humbled by the support of the American public and our corporate partners, including Target Stores, which already donated $100,000 to support our relief efforts”
Specific Salvation Army activities include:
· Firestorm Assistance Center ( El Centro , CA ): The Army has opened a center to meet the needs of evacuees at 1301 S. Fourth St . The center is providing food, shelter and other materials.
· Qualcomm Stadium ( San Diego , CA ): Two Salvation Army mobile kitchen units have provided thousands of meals and drinks at the stadium evacuation site.
· Additional Canteen Unit Locations:
o Campo Santana High School
o Escondido High School
o Lakeside , CA
o Chula Vista , CA
o Fallbrook , CA
o San Bernardino , CA (x2)
· Los Angeles , CA : Four canteen units have been dispatched in Los Angeles providing food, drinks, 300 cots and 3,000 personal care kits to fire survivors. The care kits include items such as a toothbrush, wash cloth, comb, shampoo and other items.
· Elsewhere: In Los Angeles County , where fires continue to burn in Malibu Canyon , Santa Clarita, and other areas, Salvation Army Emergency Disaster personnel remain on standby, ready to respond when requested by County authorities.
The Salvation Army asks people who want to help those affected by the California wildfires to visit www.salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Please designate your gift for California wildfire relief. Monetary donations are needed to meet survivors' most immediate needs. Donations are used to purchase necessary items that are most needed at that moment in time based on the unique needs of affected individuals and families.
The Salvation Army Responds To Immediate Needs of Survivors and Relief Workers in Southern California Wildfires
Agency Providing 10,000 Meals per Day, Emotional &Spiritual Care
ALEXANDRIA, VA (October 23, 2007) - Having completed recovery efforts surrounding the 2003 southern California wildfires only weeks ago, The Salvation Army has once again mobilized to provide assistance and support to relief workers and survivors in the wake of the latest series of blazes. To date, nine mobile canteen units have been deployed throughout the area and six additional units have been mobilized. Thus far, the canteens have provided more than 15,000 meals and 15,000 drinks to thousands of individuals impacted by the disaster. In addition, the Army is providing cots, cups and personal care kits to responders and survivors, along with emotional and spiritual care.
“Our primary goal is responding to the immediate needs of the thousands of evacuees and relief workers in the area,” said Lt. Col Doug O'Brien, Divisional Commander, The Salvation Army's Sierra Del Mar Division covering San Diego County . “Over the long-term, we expect to have many thousands of people who will need our help with long-term recovery to rebuild their homes and lives.”
Specific Salvation Army activities include:
· Qualcomm Stadium ( San Diego , CA ): Two Salvation Army mobile kitchen units have provided thousands of meals and drinks at the stadium evacuation site. Earlier this afternoon, San Diego Padres third baseman Kevin Kouzmanoff, first baseman Adrian Gonzalez and about a dozen front office staff assisted The Salvation Army in serving food to evacuees. The players and staff also visited with evacuees and children after lunch and handed out toiletries and packaged foods, accompanied by a Newsweek photographer.
· Additional Canteen Units ( San Diego area): Canteens are also serving at Steel Canyon High School , Santana High School , Campo Community Center , Lakeside Hanson Ranch, Escondido High School and Fallbrook (mobile).
· Orange County , CA : A mobile feeding unit served more than 250 commanders of the Orange County Fire Authority at their command post at Irvine Park on Monday. Today, the canteen served fire evacuees in the Albertson's shopping center parking lot in the city of Orange .
· Los Angeles , CA : Four canteen units have been dispatched in Los Angeles providing food, drinks, 300 cots and 3,000 personal care kits to fire survivors. The care kits include a toothbrush, wash cloth, comb, shampoo and other items.
· Elsewhere: In Los Angeles County , where fires continue to burn in Malibu Canyon , Santa Clarita, and other areas, Salvation Army Emergency Disaster personnel remain on standby, ready to respond when requested by County authorities.
The Salvation Army asks people who want to help those affected by the California wildfires to visit www.salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Please designate your gift for California wildfire relief. Monetary donations are needed to meet survivors' most immediate needs. Donations are used to purchase necessary items that are most needed at that moment in time based on the unique needs of affected individuals and families.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church established in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination for 127 years in the United States . More than 35 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. About 83 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services in 5,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmyusa.org .
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Release # 2
SALVATION ARMY BRINGS HELP AND HOPE IN RESPONSE TO WILDFIRES
Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) personnel continue to bring aid to first responders and residents forced to evacuate as wildfires blaze across southern California . In three days the fires have consumed over a thousand homes and businesses and set fire to 583 square miles, an area larger than New York City . Two people have been killed and 42 injured as a result of the fires
In the San Diego , Calif. , area five Salvation Army EDS vehicles (canteens) have been deployed. From these canteens Salvation Army personnel are providing water, supplies and meals to first responders battling the blazes as well as residents who had to flee their homes. Salvation Army personnel trained in critical incident stress management are offering emotional and spiritual care. Currently, canteens are responding at Steel Canyon High School , Santana High School , Campo Community Center , Qualcomm Stadium, Lakeside Hanson Ranch, Escondido High School and Fallbrook.
This afternoon San Diego Padres players and front office staff helped The Salvation Army serve lunch and distributed toiletries and prepared food packages to evacuees.
An additional canteen is stationed near Irving Park in Orange County where Salvation Army EDS personnel are providing a respite to first responders battling the Irvine fires.
Salvation Army EDS personnel in Los Angeles County are on stand-by ready to respond when requested by local officials.Tuesday, October 23, 2007
SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS TO WILDFIRES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams have been deployed to the San Diego , Calif. , area as well as Orange County in response to wildfires that have caused over 300,000 people to flee their homes. The fires have resulted in President Bush declaring a federal emergency for seven California counties.
Salvation Army EDS vehicles (canteens) are providing water, food, lip balm and new socks to first responders battling the fires that have burned more than 700 homes and set 245,957 acres ablaze. In addition, The Salvation Army is serving at meals at five evacuation centers including the Qualcomm Stadium that is housing up to 10,000 evacuees.
Friday, September 28, 2007
SALVATION ARMY LEADER IN PAKISTAN MURDERED
Colonel Bo Brekke, who oversaw The Salvation Army's work in Pakistan , was shot and killed yesterday while working at his office located in Lahore , Pakistan . Local officials do not believe this was related to terrorism, but an individual act of criminality. A man has been taken into custody on possibly related charges. Colonel Bo Brekke was 50 years old.
His wife, Colonel Birgitte Brekke, was attending meetings at The Salvation Army's International Headquarters in London , England , when the tragedy occurred. Immediately after hearing the news she flew to Norway to be with their sons and other family members.
A Norwegian by birth, Bo Brekke was commissioned a Salvation Army officer (pastor) in 1980. He and his wife served in a variety of Salvation Army appointments in Norway , Denmark , Sri Lanka , Bangladesh , Scotland , Eastern Europe and most recently Pakistan . Colonels Bo and Birgitte Brekke were place in charge of The Salvation Army's work in Pakistan in September 2006.
“Colonel Bo Brekke was a Salvation Army leader of unusual distinctive talents. Both he and his wife, Colonel Birgitte Brekke, were known for their hearts of compassion towards the marginalized,” said General Shaw Clifton, international leader of The Salvation Army. Their service together in many lands has been marked by creativity and imagination in order to reach out to the poor, giving them dignity, and also to share their personal faith as Salvationists in the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior. I have known the Brekkes for many years and have always admired them greatly. Bo Brekke was my friend. I feel blessed to have known him and to have witnessed first hand how he and Birgitte have faithfully served the needs of others.”
September 21, 2007
SALVATION ARMY READY TO RESPOND TO GULF COAST
SUB-TROPICAL DEPRESSION
As Sub-Tropical Depression Ten (STD 10) moves further into the Gulf of Mexico The Salvation Army is preparing for a Saturday afternoon landfall near the Mississippi / Louisiana border. Of greatest concern are the mobile homes in low lying areas and large number of trailers and temporary shelters remaining in parts of Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi. These housing units are exceptionally vulnerable to heavy rainfall, strong winds and isolated tornadoes. While STD 10 remains somewhat disorganized it is gradually developing tropical characteristics and should make landfall as Tropical Storm Jerry.
The Salvation Army emergency disaster services team is in contact with the Emergency Management agencies in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi and began staffing the Mississippi Emergency Operations center this morning. The Salvati