Relief Efforts Begin in the Bahamas in the Wake of Hurricane Dorian

The Salvation Army in The Bahamas has started relief efforts while continuing to plan for entry into Grand Bahama and Abaco.

Nassau, Bahamas (September 5, 2019) - Majors Clarence and Karen Ingram, with their staff are actively setting up relief efforts and planning for the immediate response, as well as long-term plans for this catastrophic event. In Nassau, the focus is preparing Salvation Army shelters for occupancy as evacuees arrive from Abaco. As well as, meeting with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and visiting government shelters to assess needs both in Nassau and the northern Bahamas islands.  

The Salvation Army corps (church) on Eleuthera island is also prepared to receive evacuees as they arrive.

The Salvation Army corps in Freeport was partially damaged but remains operational with a working generator, a functioning kitchen, and a supply of food.  Transportation is a huge challenge, as most of the Grand Bahama island is still flooded with a second challenge of not having sufficient supplies and staff to meet the burgeoning needs on the island.  Major Sumter, the officer in charge in Freeport, reports that the shelters are all over capacity but transportation is limited to large machinery and jet skis tasked for rescue efforts. As soon as they are able, the staff and volunteers in Freeport will be preparing meals for distribution to the shelters.

To support Salvation Army disaster relief efforts in the Bahamas, please consider making a financial contribution at helpsalvationarmy.org or by phone at 1-800-SAL-ARMY.