• Christopher McGown

Kentucky And Tennessee Prepare For Support In The Wake Of Hurricane Dorian

Louisville, Kentucky —Specialized equipment and trained personnel from across The Salvation Army’s Kentucky and Tennessee Division have been activated for deployment in response to the anticipated devastation from Hurricane Dorian, a storm of historic proportion.  

Representatives and equipment from both Kentucky and Tennessee have been activated for the initial wave of support, including:

• A mobile feeding unit and personnel from Danville, Kentucky
• A mobile feeding unit and personnel from Clarksville, Tennessee
• A mobile feeding unit and personnel from Memphis, Tennessee
• Personnel from Hardinsburg, Kentucky
• Personnel from Jackson, Tennessee

Additional response equipment and personnel in both states have been placed on stand-by, along with others across the Southeastern United States, as we closely monitor Hurricane Dorian’s path.  

 “The Salvation Army has a long history of serving in disasters, from tornadoes and flooding to 9/11 and Katrina.  Our service footprint means we have resources nearby and can pull in additional help when needed.  We are where the need is, and while we can’t be sure of Dorian’s path, it is clear there is going to be need in her wake.” said Major Art Penhale, the Divisional Commander (leader) for the Kentucky/Tennessee Division of The Salvation Army.

Salvation Army personnel work closely with local, state, and federal officials to ensure resources and services are focused where needed most.   Those departing within the next couple days are part of a network of strategically placed equipment and trained responders allowing for effective and efficient response in times of disaster. 

Even as the canteens (mobile feeding units) and personnel are prepared to depart, their destination is uncertain.   “The situation is changing hour-by-hour.  The current projections call for hundreds of miles of coastal communities at-risk even if the eye doesn’t come ashore,” said Bo Sells, the Disaster Services Coordinator for Kentucky and Tennessee.    “We know we are deploying, but not sure if we are heading to Florida, Georgia, or the Carolinas.”

Financial donations are the best way to meet the evolving needs and to support relief efforts.  The Salvation Army asks those who want to help the individuals and families affected by disaster to visit www.HelpSalvationArmy.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY and designate “Hurricane Dorian.”  Monetary donations will ensure The Salvation Army can meet the most immediate needs of those impacted.