The Salvation Army Responds to Tornado Outbreak in Multiple Areas in Oklahoma
Cynthia Fuller | cindy.fuller@uss.salvationarmy.org | (405) 830-6549
Oklahoma City, OK (April 20, 2023) – A strong storm system crossed Oklahoma on Wednesday evening leaving death and destruction in its wake. In Central Oklahoma, Cole and Shawnee were struck by tornadoes leaving significant damage. The National Weather Service has confirmed nine tornadoes from the evening of April 19. Even as storms threatened other parts of the state, The Salvation Army of Arkansas and Oklahoma immediately went into emergency disaster response mode. Sadly, at least two deaths have been confirmed with others anticipated and/or many injuries.
On Thursday, Central Oklahoma Area Command will be responding in McClain County (Cole) by providing breakfast at the request of emergency management. They will also provide hydration and emotional and spiritual care.
In Pottawatomie County (Shawnee), The Salvation Army of Shawnee will be responding with their rapid response unit, as well as an additional unit from Ardmore to help serve first responders and those impacted by the tornadoes.
This remains an evolving situation. Further details will be provided as additional assessments are made. The Salvation Army will be working closely with Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) partners, first responders, emergency management at the local and state levels to ascertain what the needs are for emergency response.
Financial donations can be made at www.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.
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.