The Salvation Army Serves First Responders Battling Wildfire in Southwest Florida

May 15, 2020
Lindsay Crossland | lindsay.crossland@uss.salvationarmy.org | (727) 403-7766

The Salvation Army Serves First Responders Battling Wildfire in Southwest Florida

NAPLES, FL (May 15, 2020) - The Salvation Army is responding to a local wildfire by providing hydration, snacks, lunch, and dinner to approximately 250 first responders.

Two wildfires broke out on Wednesday, May 13th in the Golden Gate community in central Collier County, Florida, west of the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge.

“These are severely dangerous wildfires exhibiting extreme fire behavior, so everyone in the affected area should follow directions from state and local officials,” said Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried in an update from the Florida Forest Service. “All residents and travelers should heed evacuation orders and closely monitor the media for updates on the wildfire and the status of I-75 and local roads. We thank our brave local and wildland firefighters for working swiftly to control this wildfire.”

Due to their close proximity, the wildfires are now being reported as one fire, the 36th Avenue SE Fire. As of May 15, the fire is estimated at 8,500 acres and 10% contained.

“It is our privilege to stand alongside these heroes who are working day and night to keep our community safe,” says Corps Officer Captain Ben Bridges. Video updates of The Salvation Army's service can be found here.

In addition to these efforts, The Salvation Army continues to provide ongoing care in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

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About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army annually helps more than 30 million Americans overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from drug and alcohol abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at 7,600 centers of operation around the country. In the first-ever listing of “America’s Favorite Charities” by The Chronicle of Philanthropy, The Salvation Army ranked as the country’s largest privately funded, direct-service nonprofit. For more information, visit www.SalvationArmyUSA.org. Follow us on Twitter @SalvationArmyUS and #DoingTheMostGood.

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The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
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