• Donald Felice

The Salvation Army of Georgia Responds to Devastating West Point Tornadoes

WEST POINT, GA (March 28, 2023) – The devastating tornadoes that wreaked havoc across Mississippi and Alabama crossed over the border into Georgia and struck the little western Georgia town of West Point, bringing with it raging winds and significant damage. The Salvation Army immediately replied to a request for help from local authorities to provide meals and, to date, has provided over 600 meals. The meals are being served to the community and delivered to an American Red Cross shelter located at Point University Gym. Georgia Governor Kemp declared a state of emergency in response to the damage from the tornadoes.

The Salvation Army deployed its Carrollton canteen (a mobile feeding unit) in response to the request from local authorities. The Salvation Army Carrollton canteen is a multi-faceted vehicle equipped to either remain in a stationary location or relocate quickly and effectively to respond to affected areas as the disaster situational needs change. The canteen is manned by crews from Newnan, GA, and the Georgia Divisional Headquarters in Atlanta.

“We have a strong presence across Georgia to respond to emergencies in local communities,” says Lanita Lloyd, Director of Emergency Disaster Services for The Salvation Army of Georgia Division. “We will continue to fully and carefully review and evaluate the situation in coordination with local and state authorities as we serve the people in and around the West Point area with dedication and commitment."

Monday, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp visited the affected communities around West Point and made a public address from an area close to the collapsed remains of the Bethel Baptist Church. Toppled trees, damaged roofs, debris, insulation-strewn branches, and trees stripped of their leaves and branches served as a backdrop. After his public comments, Governor Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp took a few minutes to stop by The Salvation Army’s Carrollton canteen stationed close by to speak with the crew to thank them for helping the people of West Point in their time of need. They also took a moment to take a photo with The Salvation Army of Georgia’s Emergency Disaster Service Assistant Director, Cindy Puryear, and Newnan staff member Kelly Adamczyk.

“Thank you for being here for these people who need your help – we truly appreciate the Salvation Army,” said Governor Kemp.

In addition to providing meals, The Salvation Army of Georgia has distributed over 100 much-needed tarps graciously donated by Lowes. The tarps are a welcomed resource to those impacted, providing protection from the elements to families, homes, vehicles, and valuables.

In times of disaster, The Salvation Army is a trusted responder. With the generous support of communities, The Salvation Army can meet immediate needs during disaster responses. Contributing financially is the best way to help relief workers and those impacted by disasters. Financial contributions allow disaster responders to meet the specific needs of those impacted immediately.

How you can help:

• Donate Online:          HelpSalvationArmy.org
• Donate by Phone:     1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769)