Salvation Army increases response to Ebola crisis
Ebola is a health crisis ‘unparalleled in modern times’ according to the United Nations, and The Salvation Army is increasing its emergency response in the West African nation of Liberia. (See photos.)
The Salvation Army’s primary focus is now on the Eternal Love Winning Africa Hospital, which has become the country’s main center for treating patients diagnosed with, or suspected of carrying, Ebola. In cooperation with other agencies, The Salvation Army’s William Booth Clinic team and its trained emergency responders in Monrovia, Liberia, are partnering to help around 5,000 affected individuals. The Salvation Army has access to a number of family homes that have been quarantined, and is providing clean drinking water, food packages and protective clothing.
Sanitiser, gloves and mouth guards to protect against the virus have been distributed to residents in communities where Ebola is prevalent. These areas are particularly susceptible to the disease due to poverty and unhygienic living conditions. Food packages – including rice, beans and cooking oil – have also been offered to families in particular need. Thousands of individuals have benefited, including inmates at the national Monrovia Central Prison, where The Salvation Army was requested to extend its distribution by the local authorities.
Additionally, disinfectant and protective clothing have been supplied to medical practitioners tackling the epidemic. This is important in order to ensure their safety as they carry out their duties.
The high personal cost
The emergency response comes at a high personal cost to some of the personnel involved. One Salvation Army officer in Liberia has lost four family members to the disease.
“This is a challenging time for our officers and colleagues in Liberia,” said Commissioner Joash Malabi, Salvation Army’s International Secretary for Africa. “And many thousands of lives have been deeply affected by this deadly disease. We encourage Salvationists and friends worldwide to pray for physical and emotional healing, and for the health of all who seek to bring medical care to those who are suffering.”
The Salvation Army has been serving in Liberia for 25 years. It has 12 schools (serving nearly 3,000 children), six child-care centers, and two clinics, along with 43 churches and outreach centers.
For updates and to donate, visit The Salvation Army International website.