• Jon Kalahar

The Salvation Army Begins Feeding in Communities as Flood Water Slowly Drops

Baton Rouge, LA – The Salvation Army canteens streamed into some of the hardest hit areas in and around Baton Rouge following historic rainfall across Southern Louisiana and parts of Mississippi. Five canteens from Salvation Army Corps across Louisiana and Mississippi carrying food, drinks and snacks made stops in Denham Springs, Gonzales, and Baton Rouge to serve lunch and dinner.

“This is our first chance to get into these areas simply because the water has been too high until Tuesday,” said Major Ed Binnix, Salvation Army Incident Commander. “We want to be there to fill those basic needs, so those affected by the flood waters can focus on their families and homes.”

In Denham Springs, Louisiana, Shannon Easley’s husband is pastor of Christ’s Community Church. The church has been turned into a central point in the area for residents who need shelter, food, and toiletries. Easley’s job is now chief organizer to 150 people who need a place to sleep and countless others who come in looking for help. 

 “We are so happy to see The Salvation Army roll in here to feed our community, you guys bring us hope,” said Easely.

Salvation Army officers also accompanied the canteen crews into these areas to provide emotional and spiritual care to residents who have lost everything and are coming to grips with what they will do to overcome this disaster.

“We pray for these folks and we pray with them, most simply they want someone to listen and we are more than willing to do that,” said Major Glen Riggs, Meridian, Mississippi Corps Officer. 

In Tangipahoa Parish, two Salvation Army canteens supported shelters in Amite and the Village of Tangipahoa, Louisiana. They served over 200 meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner in those areas. 

“We are happy to serve these folks a hot meal because we know they have bigger worries,” said Major David Worthy, New Orleans Command Officer.

To help those in these flooded areas across Southeast Louisiana, you can donate by going to http://give.salvationarmyusa.org/gulf_coast_floods. You will also find information on this webpage on how to donate by phone and through mail. You can also text STORM to 51555 on your mobile device.