As the region continues to deal with weather events, last evening’s storm brought dangerous high winds and the reports of tornadoes in the area of Ft. Payne, AL.
The Salvation Army is currently in the area assessing the damage and actively coordinating with local officials to determine how The Salvation Army might assist.
The Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi Division of The Salvation Army is quite large consisting of all areas in these three states, so it is difficult to get an overall picture of the entire division without the help of field representatives. As the field receives information on the ground, the information is forwarded up the chain to the Emergency Disaster Services Department. According to Thad Hicks, The ALM Division’s Emergency Disaster Services Director, “During these early moments after a disaster event, Salvation Army representatives get little rest, and our representative in NE Alabama has done a great job of communicating our abilities to the local agencies.”
The Salvation Army representative in the area, Felicia Knight stated, “The area suffered real damage, and we have been contacted by the local emergency management agency to begin providing meals to those affected by the storms.” In addition to feeding, The Salvation Army Family store has made clothing and home materials available to storm surviors.
Salvation Army ALM Divisional Disaster Director Thad Hicks responds, “The Salvation Army continues to monitor the situation and will enlarge their response as needed. Whenever disasters strike, The Salvation Army is always prepared to respond to the needs of our communities.” Mr. Hicks adds “Our area is no stranger to disaster, which is why The Salvation Army takes an active role in training volunteers so we are always prepared to serve.”
The Salvation Army is grateful for any monetary donations; these can be made by calling 1-800-Sal-Army or by visiting
www.disaster.salvationarmyusa.org earmarked for Fort Payne, AL storm relief.