PHILADELPHIA, PA — As the southern states grapple with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, The Salvation Army has swiftly activated its national Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) network to deliver essential aid to affected communities. In a concerted effort to provide relief, volunteers and professionals are on the ground, offering mass feeding, shelter, clean-up support, personal hygiene kits, and emotional and spiritual care to both survivors and first responders.
Two dedicated volunteers from The Salvation Army Wilkes-Barre Corps, Chris Winborn and Mark Jacukowicz, have traveled to Tampa, Florida, to contribute to the ongoing relief operations. They departed from The Salvation Army’s Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Divisional Headquarters in Philadelphia, transporting an EDS box truck loaded with 11 pallets of critical clean-up kits. This deployment is part of a broader initiative by the Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division to support logistical and on-the-ground efforts in the hardest-hit areas.
Luke Rodgers, the Division’s director of EDS, emphasized the organization’s mission during this crisis: “Our dedicated teams and volunteers will provide more than just meals—they will offer comfort, compassion, and support to individuals and families as they navigate this challenging time.” He reiterated the commitment to remain engaged with affected communities through the rebuilding process, made possible by the generous contributions from the public.
The Salvation Army’s extensive presence across the United States, with over 7,200 operational centers, uniquely positions it to respond effectively to natural disasters. Robert Myers III, EDS coordinator for The Salvation Army USA Eastern Territory, highlighted this advantage: “The Salvation Army’s presence in every zip code of the United States makes us uniquely capable of mobilizing from anywhere in the country for a disaster event like this.” Their proactive preparation before Hurricane Helene’s landfall has ensured timely assistance and will continue to aid recovery efforts as communities begin to rebuild.
Hurricane Helene, which struck Florida as a Category 4 storm, quickly moved northwest into Georgia, causing widespread devastation. The Salvation Army’s ongoing response is a testament to its ability to adapt and provide targeted aid where it is most needed. During disaster relief operations, The Salvation Army guarantees that 100% of designated donations are directed towards immediate and long-term recovery efforts.
While the organization is not currently accepting in-kind donations due to high shipping costs, it encourages financial contributions to facilitate direct and effective support. Donations can be made online, by phone, or through mail, ensuring that help reaches those in need efficiently.
To make a financial gift to support Hurricane Helene relief:
- Donate online: www.HelpSalvationArmy.org
- Donate by phone: 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769)
- Donate by mail:
The Salvation Army
P.O. BOX 1959
Atlanta, GA 30301
(Please designate Disaster Relief – Hurricane Helene on all checks.)
As the relief efforts continue, The Salvation Army remains a steadfast source of support and hope for communities striving to recover and rebuild in the wake of Hurricane Helene’s destruction.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.