Clay County Salvation Army Corps Dedicates New Rapid Response Unit

Middleburg, FL (July 24, 2024) As a result of a generous grant from the 2022 IMPACT Grant from the Lilly Endowment, The Salvation Army of Clay County received the first of sixteen specialized disaster response units to be deployed in the Southern Territory of The Salvation Army. Embassy Specialty Vehicles has customized the gas engine Rapid Response Unit (RRU) to deliver essential supplies and meals to disaster survivors.

The Clay County Corps in Northeast Florida dedicated the new unit to service on Monday. "We are the recipients of this mighty blessing, and we thank God for giving us the chance to reach the community during unfortunate times." Captain Chamberlain noted that in times of disaster, his team is there to help meet needs.

With its easy mobility, the Rapid Response Unit can reach places larger, full-size canteens cannot, providing meals, drinks, snacks, and other emergency supplies to those impacted by disasters. This RRU also is equipped with a Starlink that can be activated to provide internet connectivity to disaster survivors. “This is a valuable resource that we can provide to individuals in an impacted area where cellular and traditional internet providers are off-line due to the effects of the disaster,” said Steven Hartsook, Divisional Emergency Disaster Service Director.

"What are some guidelines for requesting an RRU?" asked Clay County Deputy Sheriff, Sergeant Chris Glenn at the dedication of the unit. "Missing persons reports are common, especially when people disappear while hiking or camping. Law enforcement stays can last several days or as long as two weeks." This new Rapid Response Unit is also available to support law enforcement and other first responders during non-disaster events.

With the flexibility and ease of activating and deploying this new unit The Salvation Army of Clay County can quickly mobilize to get out into the community. This will provide relief to first responders and those impacted by the event whether it is a natural disaster or other emergency. Major Keath Biggers, Northeast Florida Area Commander shares “This community will be better served regardless of the situation, thanks to the generosity of the Lilly Endowment. We are incredibly grateful for their support as we strive to meet human needs in Christs name throughout Clay County and beyond.”