The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (EDS)
Spring is upon us, and it brings with it some wonderful things: warmer weather, beautiful flowers and the promise of Summer. However, it is also a time fraught with thunderstorms and tornados which can wreak havoc on the communities that we serve.
Last month violent storms hit the Midwest. While we in Michigan have dodged the worst of the weather so far, severe weather is predicted and EDS is ready in Kent County and across the state to respond if needed.
Our neighbors in Indiana have already been hit more severely. There were at least 17 confirmed tornadoes that swept through the state on March 31.
Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services teams deployed to multiple counties where they focused on immediate needs, such as food, hydration, and emotional and spiritual care. They also coordinate with local government and other organizations to help families affected get back on their feet.
In Michigan our EDS team plays the same important role. Led by Executive Director of Emergency Disaster Services Chris Striebel, the EDS Canteen truck ministers to front-line workers and all those immediately affected by disasters. Most recently, the canteen served police officers at a Detroit crime scene. In the winter McDougall served food at a warming shelter for the homeless caught in the cold.
*GLD EDS truck at a Detroit crime scene
As Spring progresses, we are sure to experience more “April showers,” which will hopefully bring May flowers. But when those showers bring some less than pretty things, the Great Lakes Division’s Emergency Disaster Services stands ready to help.