• Christopher McGown

Flood Waters Recede As Hope Rises In Southeastern Kentucky

Middlesboro, KY - June 21, 2011 - “We’re like an island, cut off by water from everything around us” said Captain Adrian Twinney, Incident Commander, speaking about flooding in and around the city of Middlesboro.

The flash flooding that swept through coupled with the continued threat of severe weather has Salvation Army personnel keeping a watchful eye on surrounding areas and local communities.   Working with State and local Emergency Operations Centers (EOC), Captain Twinney is coordinating The Salvation Army’s response to the evolving Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) effort.

The mobile feeding unit (canteen) based in Knoxville, Tennessee—along with a trained crew—has been dispatched to augment The Salvation Army’s response effort for those impacted by the flooding.   Still other units in The Salvation Army’s EDS response fleet remain on standby to assist if called upon.

Mr. Joe Hughes, Divisional Disaster Services Coordinator for The Salvation Army in Kentucky & Tennessee, said “Over the past several months we’ve had a significant increase in the need for EDS response in this part of our division.   This highlights the need for a more pronounced EDS presence.   The division has decided to position a brand new Emergency Disaster Response Vehicle (DRV) in Middlesboro.”   These vehicles are custom made, so it will take some time, but the process has already started.

The Salvation Army’s response to this disaster is still evolving, but it is likely to include hot, nutritious meals provided to the established shelter as well as another site to better serve those displaced by the flood water, along with snacks and cold drinks.   Additionally, there are plans for distributing clean-up kits.  Containing such cleaning basics as a mop, bucket, cleaning agents, sponges, masks, and gloves; a clean-up kit seems basic.   But when filthy, contaminated water has invaded every corner of your home—basics are essentials.

An integral component of The Salvation Army’s holistic approach to disaster response is Emotional & Spiritual Care.  The successful rescue of the miners trapped in Jellico #1 Mine, has focused attention on those impacted by the same flood water that endangered the miners.    Like all disasters, floods bring significant stress to those impacted and those responding.   The Salvation Army has staff and volunteers who are trained to provide Emotional and Spiritual Care on a variety of levels.

For the latest news about Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services or to make a donation in the support of those impacted by this flooding, please visit:   www.disaster.SalvationArmyUSA.org.  You can also call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769).

You may also help The Salvation Army now by texting “SAnow” 80888 to make a $10.00 contribution to the relief effort.   The donation will appear on your next phone bill.

For images related of the proposed DRV and/or Clean-up kits, please visit, www.TSA.ms/edsinfo