• Eric Short

The Salvation Army of Kentucky and Tennessee Prepares for Potential Response in the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

Louisville, KY – As Tropical Storm Helene moves across Georgia and threatens Tennessee and Kentucky with heavy rain and strong winds over the coming days, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) teams in both states are preparing to respond. Having monitored the storm's progression throughout the week, The Salvation Army is ready to provide relief in impacted communities as needed.

With significant power outages possible across the region, The Salvation Army’s primary response will focus on feeding services using its mobile kitchen units. These units, positioned in key locations across Kentucky and Tennessee, are capable of serving 500 to 1,500 meals per day to disaster survivors, ensuring they receive essential nutrition in the wake of the storm.

“We’ve been preparing all week to respond if Helene causes severe damage in our area,” said Bo Sells, Divisional Director of Emergency Disaster Services for The Salvation Army of Kentucky and Tennessee. “Our teams are equipped to serve not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually, providing holistic care to those affected by disasters like this tropical storm.”

The Salvation Army, with its longstanding presence in nearly every zip code across the country, understands the unique needs of local communities. This allows the organization to quickly and effectively respond to disasters with services tailored to meet the specific needs of survivors. The Salvation Army is closely coordinating with state emergency management agencies and other disaster relief organizations in Kentucky and Tennessee to assess needs and determine where their services are most urgently required.

In addition to preparing for a local response, The Salvation Army is surging resources to Florida and Georgia, where Helene has already caused widespread damage. Should the need arise, units from Kentucky and Tennessee may be deployed to support relief efforts in those states.

“The Salvation Army is committed to responding as soon as it is safe to do so,” Sells added, “and we will remain in communities as long as we are needed.”

The best way to support The Salvation Army’s disaster relief efforts is through financial contributions, which allow the organization to provide immediate and flexible assistance. Donations can be made online at www.helpsalvationarmy.org, by phone at 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2169), or by mailing a check to The Salvation Army at PO Box 436437, Louisville, KY 40253 (Memo: Hurricane Helene 2024).