Salvation Army Readies for Hurricane Earl

WEST NYACK, NY - In preparation for Hurricane Earl to hit Puerto Rico, The Salvation Army mobilized and had staff on high alert to respond. Fortunately, the storm did not inflict major damage to communities on the island. Additional rains are expected tonight and the needs will be assessed again if there is damage from major flooding.

Now that Hurricane Earl is moving toward the East Coast, Salvation Army personnel from coastal North Carolina to Maine are reviewing local response plans and procedures for the potential of localized deployment to impacted communities.

"Our focus at this time is to be prepared locally with a plan, personnel and resources so that our local Salvation Army Corps can provide assistance as required or requested in coordination with county and state emergency management officials", said Mike Patterson, Emergency Disaster Services Director for the North & South Carolina Division.

The Salvation Army, up and down the East Coast, is coordinating with state and local emergency management offices.

The Salvation Army encourages all residents in Earl's potential path to prepare an emergency supply kit, an evacuation plan and to stay informed of all warnings and potential protective actions.

The Salvation Army is closely monitoring the path of Earl, as well as Fiona, and is ready to mobilize and serve as necessary. Just as in Puerto Rico, The Salvation Army in the U.S. is prepared to assess the need and serve people in any areas that may be affected by either hurricane.

The Salvation Army asks people who want to help those affected by Hurricane Earl to visit www.salvationarmyusa.org or 1-800-SAL-Army.  Monetary donations will be used to meet immediate needs. The Salvation Army currently is not accepting donations of clothing and furniture for storm victims; however, please continue supporting your local Salvation Army thrift store and the much needed programs your in-kind gifts support.