When Disaster Strikes Northern Michigan- The Salvation Army Is There!
A local apartment building caught fire which damaged 16 units and displaced 15 families on July 4, 2016. The Salvation Army quickly became the main point of contact and coordinator for families and local social service agencies.
The Salvation Army co-coordinated a Community Resource Event with the American Red Cross at the Cross of Christ Lutheran Church to include Goodwill, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Women’s Resource Center, Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency, and Safe Families for Children to provide the victims with information and services to meet their needs. Spicy Bob’s of Petoskey generously donated pizzas for the event as well as gift certificates for all the families.
With the assistance of two volunteers, The Salvation Army response team facilitated a tote donation campaign through Wal-Mart which resulted in a donation of 6 large pallets filled with food, water, personal care items and clothing that we gathered and distributed to victims.
The Salvation Army provided food and meals to victims through the Pantry, vouchers for additional clothing, furniture, and household goods through the Thrift Store, plus organized an outreach dinner where victims were able to share their experiences and hopes for the future.
Due to the variety of victim family types and sizes, some needs were not supplied by other agencies. To meet those needs, The Salvation Army purchased 46 unusual items such as Trac Phone Cards, Depends, and diabetic socks. In addition, they provided shelter for 4 families who had no other housing options.
Envoy Greg Irwin of The Salvation Army says “It is beautiful to witness the fellowship of Christ working through so many generous members of our community. We are truly honored and humbled by the outpouring of prayers, volunteer efforts, supply and monetary donations that were given on behalf of the families who lost their homes and belongings in the Traverse Woods fire”.
The total support given to the victims of the Traverse Woods fire is valued at $10,982.00.
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. For more information about our ministry and programs, please visit us at sapetoskey.org or call us at (231)347-3531.