• Christopher McGown

Salvation Army responds to flooding in eastern Kentucky

The Salvation Army's Kentucky &  Tennessee Division Emergency Disaster Service is responding after devastating floods hit eastern Kentucky on Monday, leading Governor Steve Beshear to declare a state of emergency.  Three people were killed, six more are still missing and hundreds have been left homeless.  There is also significant property damage, both from flood waters and leftover debris.

Salvation Army personnel are working closely with community leadership and Emergency Management staff to monitor the situation and coordinate relief efforts.

Today, the Salvation Army will deliver more than 420 cleanup kits to Johnson and Rowan counties, the hardest hit areas.  These kits include buckets, mops, brooms, gloves, bleach and other cleaning supplies.

Free Clean-up Kits will be available at:
Johnson Central High School, 257 North Mayo Trail, Paintsville, and
Hayes Crossing-Haldeman Fire Department, 6400 U.S. 60 East, Morehead

In addition, Salvation Army canteens (mobile feeding kitchens) are on stand-by in nearby communities should they be needed. 

Johnson County Salvation Army Service Unit Director, Kim Castle, said they are on standby and prepared to give out clothing vouchers from the Salvation Army Thrift Store.

"The biggest amount of damage is in the Flat Gap area," said Castle.  "They've done evaluations on certain sections of that area, and right now there are 100-160 homes that are a total loss and up to 500 homes affected.  They've not even been able to get out on the rural roads yet; that's just on the main highway.

"It's hard right now where they're still in rescue mode.  It's still a restricted area, so we're not allowed into the area yet," she continued.  "We're available to do what they need [us to do] on an as-needed basis."

Jim Tom Trent, the Rowan County Salvation Army Service Unit Committee chair, said he's also ready should any further help be needed.  "Right now we've got the cleanup kits, and if we have more to do later, we are prepared.”

The Salvation Army has trained volunteers and staff along with a wide assortment of equipment to ensure readiness for meet human needs where we find it.

In times of disaster, financial support is the greatest need.   People wishing to help those affected by this flooding are asked to call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769) or visit www.salvationarmy.org to make a donation.