March 30, 2015 – Oklahoma City, OK – The Salvation Army provided over 700 hours of emergency disaster response in areas of Oklahoma where tornadoes hit last week. As of Sunday afternoon, The Salvation Army has provided 2,832 prepared meals, 4,495 drinks and 3,057 snacks. 209 individuals/families were provided emotional and spiritual care, be it a listening ear, a hug, a prayer or all of the above.
Oklahoma City’s Area Command served in Moore near Southgate-Rippetoe Elementary School and nearby neighborhoods where the damage occurred. Food service concluded Friday afternoon. Kenny Kelly, Emergency Disaster Coordinator for the Salvation Army, offered tornado victims water and food but he also hoped his help fulfilled their emotional needs. “That's what we are all about, telling people how much we care, we love them and God loves them and together we can get through this,” Kelly said.
The Tulsa Area Command’s canteen served at the River Oaks Mobile Home Park in Sand Springs. Service concluded Sunday afternoon. Chance Tinker, a former volunteer firefighter from Jenks, was on site volunteering on the canteen. He assisted with meal preparation and serving the meals to emergency responders and residents. Tinker stated “I just wanted to be able to help. I am honored to serve.”
Donations are always needed to offset the costs of services to storm victims. Please visit: www.disaster.salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY to donate. All donations for disaster services will be used for the designated purpose. Additional updates will be posted at www.twitter.com/SalArmyAOk, www.facebook.com/SalArmyAOK, and www.twitter.com/SalArmyAOKEDS.
The Salvation Army Mission Statement:
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army, established in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination for 130 years in the United States. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. 82 cents of every dollar spent is used to carry out those services in 5,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmyusa.org.