Strong winds that hit both Brainerd and East Ridge on Monday afternoon left some East Ridge residents displaced after trees fell on their homes.
Immediately following the storms, Salvation Army officials said they were on the scene meeting with emergency management officials and going door-to-door to visit with those affected by the storm. Most residents arranged to stay with family or friends, "so the most immediate need was prayer and emotional support," it was stated.
Red Cross workers were also at the scene providing aid.
“It is devastating when you have had a tree come down on your house or half of your house missing,” states Kimberly George, public information officer for The Salvation Army. “When I met the residents and asked if I could prayer with them, they welcomed it with open arms, some crying in my arms.”
The Salvation Army remained with residents until 11:30 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Belvoir Avenue in East Ridge. Good Shepherd opened its doors to the Red Cross and Salvation Army to meet with residents and better address their needs.
The Salvation Army stands ready to serve our community with food, beverages, emotional and spiritual support in times of disaster and throughout the year, Ms. George said.