Salvation Army Responds to 7.2 Earthquake in Guatamala

November 08, 2012
Christopher Priest | chris_priest@uss.salvationarmy.org

The Salvation Army in Guatemala has responded to an earthquake measuring 7.2, and lasting 30 seconds that hit the coastline on Wednesday, November 7.

This affected mostly San Marcos (near the south Mexico border), Solola, Quetzaltenango and Guatemala city.

Media reports more than 2,263 homes and at least one school were badly damaged, 5,251 people are homeless, 52 people died under the rubble and authorities estimate more bodies could be recovered soon. More than 22 people are still missing and 1,2 million people were affected according to government reports. The Guatemala Government has declared a “state of Emergency” for 30 days
to facilitate response and delivery of humanitarian aid.

All Salvation Army Corps and Officers are safe and sound. After reviewing the situation, Divisional Commander Major Carlos Gonzzatti with Officers and Soldiers of the Division traveled the same day to San Marcos and into a community called San Cristobal Cochú which received damage due to the elevation. This is a 6 hour trip and they request prayer support for safety as they depart.

The Salvationists will begin providing water, canned food, snacks and dry food (rice, beans, corn) along with Spiritual and emotional care.

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.