A Helping Hand When Disaster Strikes
September is National Preparedness Month, a great time to celebrate the important work done every day by The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS).
When disasters – such as a house fire, storm, or pandemic – strike The Salvation Army is usually the first one on the scene, and the last to leave. This is because we’re already in every zip code, extending help and hope through a network of trained staff and volunteers. We know and love these communities well before the fire, flood, blizzard, or tornado occur.
Our volunteers offer water and a meal to first responders battling the blaze. Our chaplains offer a listening ear and comforting word in the wake of the tornado. Staff help survivors navigate the process of rebuilding after the storm. And we don’t leave when the disaster is over, because this is our neighborhood, too.
Here, some of our EDS staff share what they do and the vital role volunteers play in this work. Learn more at salarmychicago.org/disaster.