Arkansas-Oklahoma Salvation Army Locations Provide Refuge During Winter Storm

OKLAHOMA CITY (February 26, 2021) – With unprecedented cold temperatures on top of large amounts of snowfall across the Arkansas & Oklahoma Division, The Salvation Army stepped in to provide warmth and refuge in otherwise life-threatening conditions for our most vulnerable residents. As this storm caused a variety of issues, from power outages to water shortages, The Salvation Army was prepared to meet the wide-ranging needs in our Commands across the Division.

During the winter storm, The Salvation Army met the needs of individuals affected by the elements by opening warming centers and expanding hours to accommodate the most vulnerable, providing meals, snacks, and shelter to hundreds.   In some cases, where shelters overflowed, motel vouchers were provided.   In other areas, shelter staff worked around the clock, operating 24-hour a day services and providing three meals a day.  Coats, gloves, blankets, and hats were provided to those in need of items to stay warm.

In various counties across the two states, the extreme temperatures caused a loss of water for communities. The Salvation Army continues to closely coordinate with Emergency Management as well as Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) to identify and help meet the needs of the communities.

Financial donations can be made at helpsalvationarmy.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY to support response efforts. For the latest Salvation Army disaster information please go to www.disaster.salvationarmy.org and watch for regular updates on our social media pages at www.facebook.com/salvationarmyaok/ and www.twitter.com/salarmyeds and www.twitter.com/salarmyedsaok.