Wake County, NC (August 23, 2011) - The Salvation Army of Wake County
Emergency Disaster Services (“EDS”) team has been placed on standby as Hurricane
Irene approaches the North Carolina Region. Currently, The Salvation Army has
multiple mobile canteens, which are capable of serving thousands of meals per day,
stocked and ready to provide material, emotional, and spiritual assistance to survivors.
Experts say both Carolinas remain in the “cone of forecast” for Irene’s path. The storm
could strengthen into a powerful Category 4 Hurricane off the Florida coast by the end of
this week, with major impacts anticipated along the coastlines of the Carolinas, and
major wind, rainfall and storm surge affecting the inland areas.
The Salvation Army is prepared for whatever impact affects the Wake County region.
Just last Friday and Saturday, August 19th and 20th. The Salvation Army held Disaster
Response Training programs for staff and volunteers in preparation for hurricane
season. Salvation Army staff and over 25 volunteers were present, developing skills and
learning protocol in case of a disaster, just like the one that could occur if Hurricane
Irene hits.
“Volunteers were crucial in helping us provide relief to victims of the April
tornadoes,” said Lizzy Adams, Volunteer & Resource Coordinator in Wake County.
“Without volunteers who are knowledgeable about disaster relief procedures and
processes, we could not serve the community as effectively during such a difficult time.”
Once damage reports have been received and local needs have been determined, EDS
teams will serve throughout the impacted region. In the short-term aftermath of the
storm, Salvation Army officers and staff will focus primarily on immediate needs
providing food, hydration, and emotional and spiritual care to impacted individuals and
families.
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