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Released 30 January 2009
SALVATION ARMY ESCALATES RESPONSE TO
OKLAHOMA/ARKANSAS ICE STORMS
As thousands of homes and
businesses remain without power in Arkansas and Oklahoma due to severe ice
storms that began Monday, The Salvation Army continues to expand its reach into
affected areas.
The Arkansas and Oklahoma state
departments of emergency management reported yesterday over 107,000 Arkansas
and almost 21,000 Oklahoma homes and businesses were without power. Some areas of
northern Arkansas are reporting ice accumulations of one-to-three-inches thick.
Between Monday and Wednesday of
this week, the Army has served 2,625 meals, 8,437 hot/cold drinks and 3,913
snacks to people impacted by the ice storm in three of the worst-affected
counties in northwest Arkansas. Additionally, 150 persons received emotional
and spiritual care. Lodging has been provided for 482 individuals and showers
for 700 others. One facility became so overcrowded the chapel was opened and
pews and floor space used to accommodate people. The Army has also provided 150
blankets, 70 comfort kits, 150 clothing items and 150 infant supplies.
Salvation Army personnel from
across Arkansas and Oklahoma have arrived to assist the first-responders—83 officers,
employees, and volunteers have worked 3,854 hours to serve and care for those
affected by the storm. By this morning, four mobile feeding units (canteens)
are in operation. The need for meals will continue to rise over the next few
days while many homes and businesses remain without power, which may not be
restored in some areas until sometime next week. Salvation Army personnel continue
to work with state emergency management officials and other agencies to
coordinate services and provide ongoing assistance.
Monetary donations earmarked
“Disaster Relief” may be sent to your local Salvation Army, made online at
www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
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