The Salvation Army Responds to Hurricane Matthew in Haiti

Immediate and long-term efforts in place for relief and recovery

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Oct 06, 2016, 02:10 ET

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 6, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The Salvation Army is mobilizing emergency response personnel and supplies after Hurricane Matthew, the most powerful Caribbean storm in almost a decade, caused widespread flooding, flattened homes and trees, and left a trail of destruction in Haiti.

"We are initiating a response to meet basic urgent needs. As we continue to assess, gather information and fully grasp the scope of this devastating situation, we know for certain there is already significant need for food, clean water, and shelter. We humbly ask the American public to consider supporting our efforts through prayer and monetary donations," said Lt. Col. Thomas Bowers, Director for The Salvation Army World Service Office (SAWSO).

Flooding and mudslides remain a serious concern throughout the impacted region, particularly in the areas of Eux Cayes, Port-au-Prince, and Petit Goave, where a major bridge collapsed. The bridge was a major thoroughfare to the capital city. In southern Haiti, where the destruction was especially brutal, Salvation Army schools and community centers opened throughout the region to host vulnerable individuals, many of whom lost their roofs or entire homes due to violent winds and falling trees.

"Donations from the generous public will help provide basic necessities that vulnerable Haitians desperately need right now," said Lt. Col. Ron Busroe, The Salvation Army's National Community Relations and Development Secretary. "The effects of this situation will be felt for months to come. We know that emotional and spiritual counseling is equally important for these individuals to deal with the gravity of the situation."

Monetary donations are the most critical need for survivors. The Salvation Army has set up a designated fund where 100 percent of gifts go to relief efforts in Haiti. To give, visit salar.my/Matthew or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769). Check donations to Salvation Army World Service Office (designated "Hurricane Matthew") can be sent to:

Salvation Army World Service Office
615 Slaters Lane
Alexandria, VA 22314

About The Salvation Army World Service Office (SAWSO)

SAWSO is committed to working hand in hand with local communities to help people who face challenges every day in countries around the globe. Created in 1977 as an independent 501(c)(3) to support the ministry of The Salvation Army, SAWSO has been strengthening global communities in need for nearly 38 years. SAWSO supports The Salvation Army's impressive global footprint in 127 countries, developing long-term community-driven solutions to issues in the areas of Community Health & HIV Prevention, Livelihood & Empowerment, anti-human-trafficking, Disaster Relief & Recovery, and education. To learn more, go to sawso.org.

About The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church established in London in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination for 135 years in the United States. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through a range of social services: providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter for the homeless, and opportunities for underprivileged children. For more information, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org.

Occasionally, conditions in the field may alter relief activities. If this occurs, The Salvation Army will direct funds to our International relief efforts in the region.

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SOURCE The Salvation Army