• Jon Kalahar

The Salvation Army in Louisiana, Mississippi standing by if Harvey moves east

JACKSON, MS – As Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas as a category four hurricane with 130 miles per hour winds, The Salvation Army in Louisiana and Mississippi must wait to see if Harvey turns back to the east. Officers, staff and volunteers across the three state Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi Division (ALM) are prepared to respond should that happen.

“We still are anticipating flooding here in Lake Charles,” said Lieutenant Richard Watts, Lake Charles, Louisiana Corps Officer. “The potential for severe weather will be with us into next week, so we are working with our local partners to make sure our community is prepared.”

A state of emergency has been declared by the Louisiana governor. The National Weather Service models for Southwest Louisiana show locations where up to twenty inches of rain could fall over the next week. 

“We know that we cannot let our guard down and continue to work closely with local and state officials to monitor the remnants of Harvey.” said Terry Lightheart, Emergency/Disaster Services Director, ALM Division. “Whether there is a need for disaster relief in our immediate Division or Texas, we are ready to serve.”

The Salvation Army has 29 canteens or mobile feeding trucks stocked with water, snacks and food ready to respond if needed. 

How People Can Help

The best way to help after a disaster is to make a financial donation. Monetary contributions also support local economies and ensure that businesses can operate when relief supplies diminish.

Online: helpsalvationarmy.org 

Donate By Phone: 1-800-SAL-ARMY 

Mail Checks to: 

The Salvation Army PO Box 1959 Atlanta, GA 30301   

 Please designate “Hurricane Harvey” on all checks. 

Text to Give: STORM to 51555