• Karyn Lewis

The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama Serves Students In Need Amid Hurricane Sally Relief

BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. (September 22, 2020) Category 2 Hurricane Sally caused widespread power outages across southern Baldwin County as it landed late last week. Significant debris, downed trees, and downed power lines left the Southern Baldwin, and Mobile Counties affected. Power companies estimate that most power will be restored within 7-10 days. The Salvation Army is continuing services in Baldwin County, adding services in Magnolia, Alabama. Power has returned to 70% of Baldwin County residents, and the majority of power is estimated to be restored by next week. Baldwin County Public Schools will reopen on September 30, and The Salvation Army is serving students in need of meals with teachers' help throughout Baldwin County.

"We've had units set up all across the county. We've been in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach at the Sports Complexes. We also traveled to Fairhope to assist those who were cut off by trees and other debris and could not get to the Sports Complexes for service. We've also been able to work with community partners left and right," shared Captain Sheri Jones, Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama Commanding Officer.

"We've been in Foley at the soccer fields, the Seminole fire station, and we're also going to Silverhill today. We are preparing to work with a group of teachers who will help us get to their students who cannot access food. We are packing food for the teachers to deliver to their students. We've served more than 22,000 meals since we've been on the ground during Hurricane Sally relief and will continue to serve our community," Captain Jones added. 

The best way to support the disaster work of The Salvation Army by making a financial donation at www.helpsalvationarmy.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY. For the latest emergency disaster services news from The Salvation Army, please go to www.disaster.salvationarmyusa.org and watch for regular updates on our social media pages at www.facebook.com/salarmyalm/ and www.twitter.com/salarmyalm.

As natural disasters can increase mental stress, The Salvation Army's Emotional & Spiritual Care HOPEline remains available. Anyone needing a caring listener – whether because of natural disaster, COVID-19, or the stress of life in general – can call 844-458-HOPE (4673) for support. HOPEline hours are 8 AM to 11 PM CDT, 7 days a week.