Never Miss a Chance to Do the Most Good
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Never Miss a Chance to Do the Most Good
Please enter your name, email and zip code below to sign up!
We combat natural disasters with acts of God.
The Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services represent a commitment to serve people in their time of need and at their exact location of need. First begun following a hurricane which devastated Galveston, Texas in 1900, the worldwide program has gone on to serve millions of disaster victims in the years since. In the Great Lakes Division, a dozen disaster response teams, directed by trained personnel, are on call to serve at all disasters and civil disorders which may place a community at risk, or disrupt family security and well-being. Mobile canteens provide food, temporary shelter, blankets, communications, pastoral counseling, emergency lighting, clean-up kits and referrals to Salvation Army centers. By partnering with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) and local agencies, we ensure our disaster services are provided in the most efficient manner possible.
The Salvation Army helps meet the needs of disaster survivors through
Emergency Preparedness
As one of the largest disaster relief organizations in the country, The Salvation Army recognizes the need to be prepared. We educate other first responders and the public about how to prepare for and respond to natural disasters and aid in the development of emergency disaster plans.
Immediate Emergency Response
Emergency response services are activated on short notice according to an agreed-upon notification procedure coordinated with federal, state and local governments. Typically, our personnel and resources will congregate at predetermined staging areas, entering the impacted area only once government first-responders have indicated that it is safe and constructive to do so. These immediate response activities include food and hydration services, shelter, cleanup and emergency communication assistance to put victims in touch with their loved ones.
Long-Term Disaster Recovery
The Salvation Army continues to aid victims of natural disasters throughout the recovery process. We collaborate with local, state, and federal governments to develop and execute a long-term disaster relief and recovery plan, including restoration and rebuilding initiatives, meeting basic needs, covering medical expenses, cutting funeral costs, and distributing in-kind donations to help victims rebuild their lives.
Spiritual and Emotional Care
Not all aftermath of natural disasters is visible to the naked eye. The Salvation Army helps treat the emotional stress and trauma of disaster victims and first responders with emotional support and spiritual comfort. Whether it's lending a listening ear, offering a hug, joining together in prayer, or simply being present, Salvation Army counselors are ready to help.
