Relief for Louisiana Floods Underway With 24 Hour Shelter, Cleaning Kits, and Over $8,000 in Gift Cards to Families

The Salvation Army has been boots on the ground, serving our neighbors in need throughout the flooding in Louisiana where, according to the National Weather Service, Lake Charles experienced more rainfall in one day than it did during back-to-back Hurricanes Laura and Delta in August 2020.  

Heavy rains that started Monday, May 17, have resulted in flooding throughout parts of Louisiana. The area has experienced consistent thunderstorms throughout the week and, according to the National Weather Service, some areas are still under the possibility of more flash flooding today. The Salvation Army is currently providing disaster relief assistance in Lake Charles and Baton Rouge. 

Many homes received water damage. The Lake Charles Corps spent Wednesday and Thursday traveling throughout affected areas, distributing over 100 clean-up kits and over $8,000 in Walmart gift cards to families in affected areas. Clean-up kits will be at the thrift store throughout next week for families to pick up as well.  

“All water has receded here in Lake Charles, but canals are still full. We are here to serve our neighbors in need throughout this disaster. Families who may have missed our canteen distributions can still visit the Family Thrift Store for assistance,” said Lt. Thomas Marion, Lake Charles Corps Officer. 

The Baton Rouge Corps Emergency Shelter on Airline Highway will be open 24 hours with expanded capacity from Wednesday, May 19, through Saturday, May 22. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served on-site in the Baton Rouge Corps shelter from Wednesday through Saturday.  

“Whether you need shelter from the storm or there is a need for services following the storm, The Salvation Army stands ready to serve our community,” said Major Don Tekautz, Baton Rouge Corps Officer.   

To support The Salvation Army as we help our neighbors in need during the Louisiana flood, donate to HelpSalvationArmy.org. For more information on The Salvation Army’s work during this disaster, visit Disaster.SalvationArmyUSA.org.  

About The Salvation Army   

The Salvation Army annually helps more than 23 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.