• Eric Short

The Salvation Army Continues Disaster Relief Efforts in East Tennessee with Special Support from Miss Tennessee Volunteer 2025

Newport, TN – In the aftermath of the devastating floods caused by Hurricane Helene more than a week ago, The Salvation Army's disaster relief operations in East Tennessee are in full swing. In Cocke County near Sevierville, volunteers and staff have been working tirelessly to meet the immediate needs of the community, including providing meals, drinks, and emotional support.

Today, Miss Tennessee Volunteer 2025, Hannah McKay, joined The Salvation Army's efforts at a feeding location in Newport, TN, where 250 meals were distributed to flood survivors. McKay, a native of East Tennessee, brought a special sense of connection and pride to the community as she served alongside other volunteers.

“As a proud East Tennessean, I am so glad to be here, help and volunteer," said McKay. "The Miss Volunteer America Organization are national partners with The Salvation Army because we are just so proud of everything The Salvation Army does for communities across the nation. Doing The Most Good is something that is near and dear to my heart, and giving back in my local community and seeing everyone rally is just really special, and I’m glad to be a part of it.”

McKay, who was crowned Miss Tennessee Volunteer 2025 in July, graduated from The University of Tennessee earlier this year with a degree in Marketing. She shared that she plans to continue volunteering with The Salvation Army in the coming days to assist with the ongoing recovery in her home state.

Major Cam Henderson, Knoxville Area Commander of The Salvation Army, expressed gratitude for McKay's involvement, stating, “Having Miss Tennessee Volunteer join us in our relief efforts is truly meaningful. Her presence helps bring visibility to the important work that’s happening on the ground here in East Tennessee. We appreciate her heart for service and the way she’s using her platform to support those in need.”

The Salvation Army has been on the front lines of disaster relief since Hurricane Helene struck, providing critical support to affected communities. In just 10 days, the organization has served:

• 20,948 meals
• 1,023 drinks
• 5,064 snacks
• 1,445 emotional and spiritual care contacts

These efforts are part of The Salvation Army's larger disaster response, which also includes operations in the Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida. The organization is preparing resources ahead of Hurricane Milton, which is expected to hit Florida mid-week.

The Salvation Army remains committed to providing relief for as long as necessary. Public support is crucial in sustaining these efforts, and the best way to contribute is through financial donations. Every dollar given to The Salvation Army’s disaster services goes directly to helping those affected by these storms. Donations can be made online at helpsalvationarmy.org or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.

Together, with volunteers like Hannah McKay, The Salvation Army continues to "Do the Most Good" in communities hit hardest by disaster.