Paychecks Running Out, Businesses Still Closed After Irma, Army Meeting Need
Jon Kalahar | jon.kalahar@uss.salvationarmy.org | (601) 941-7779
Sebring, FL. –In Highlands County, Florida, power is slowly being restored but for many it’s been five days in the sweltering heat with no air conditioning, no water and no ice. As if that wasn’t enough, many businesses have not reopened and hourly workers have no new income.
Melissa Gage is one of those workers.
“Out of power since Sunday, it just seems like it keeps getting hotter,” said Gage. “My paycheck ran out, so we are here for a meal and some water.
Gage picked up six hot meals for her family just like several hundred other local residents in and around Sebring. The Salvation Army will top ten thousand meals served in Highlands County on their fifth day of service.
Ashley Ivey and her husband have two young girls. It’s been hard for them as well without power.
“They told us it would be Tuesday by midnight (for power to be restored),” said Ivey. “But our daughters have suffered heat exhaustion, they’re allergic to mosquitos too so it’s difficult right now." Ivey said she explained to her daughters about the storm that, “this is what happens when you live in Florida.”
For many, the sooner the power can be restored, the better. The Salvation Army will remain in place to fill any needs for several days once the power does return.
About The Salvation ArmyThe 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.