Love in time of Disaster

CLEARWATER, FL (October 19, 2024) - Linda and Lonnie from Ocala, Florida, are dedicated volunteers currently serving in Clearwater, Florida with The Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services team. Their journey to this mission is as heartwarming as the work they do.

Linda has been with The Salvation Army for 23 years, making a significant impact in social services. But her story took a beautiful turn when she reconnected with Lonnie, her high school classmate, at a reunion. Both Linda and Lonnie had experienced the loss of their spouses, and as they reconnected, they found companionship in each other.

Linda was looking for someone to share her faith with, and as they grew closer, Lonnie began attending Salvation Army worship services. Their shared love for helping others led them to become partners not just in life but also in service.

“It’s amazing for us to both be part of Emergency Disaster Services together,” Linda shares. “We work so well together. Lonnie is like a little worker bee for Jesus.”

Linda and Lonnie have spent the past week operating one of The Salvation Army’s Mobile Feeding Units where they have provided hundreds of hot lunches and dinners and hydration to those in need following Hurricane Milton.

For Lonnie, the joy of serving others has become a source of peace and purpose. “It’s just wonderful because you know you want to give back to people. It’s not about you. It’s about them,” he says. “I’m on the ground helping individual people, and that brings me a lot of peace and comfort.”

Their bond goes beyond their shared mission. “She’s my best friend,” Lonnie shares.

Together, Linda and Lonnie are more than just volunteers; they are a powerful example of love, faith, and dedication in action. Their work with The Salvation Army’s Mobile Feeding Unit is a testament to their commitment to serving others and their unwavering belief in making a difference, one meal at a time.

With a smile, Linda adds, “He’s my love story for the end of life.”