• Eric Short

Actresses Alexa PenaVega and Taylor Dooley Serve at The Salvation Army’s East Tennessee Disaster Response

Mountain City, TN – Actresses Alexa PenaVega and Taylor Dooley, both proud Tennessee residents, recently rolled up their sleeves to serve alongside The Salvation Army in Mountain City, TN, in the wake of the catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene. The two stars, known for their work on the Spy Kids and Sharkboy and Lavagirl films, felt a deep responsibility to help their fellow Tennesseans. Having seen firsthand the devastation across Johnson County, they joined The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team on Thursday, October 10, bringing not just food but also hope and encouragement to survivors.

PenaVega, who has a long history of volunteering with The Salvation Army, previously helped in their response to Hurricane Ian in 2022 and the fires in Maui in 2023. Now a resident of Tennessee, she felt a strong connection to those affected by Hurricane Helene’s flooding. “We wanted to be here. We are blessed to be here. Serving others is such an important part of our lives,” said Alexa. “When you see the heartache and devastation, it’s hard not to jump in and help. These people have lost so much, and being able to give back, even a little, is a blessing.”

Taylor Dooley echoed Alexa’s sentiments. Best known for her role as Lavagirl in The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lavagirl, Taylor was equally moved to serve her adopted state. "Moving to Tennessee has been a blessing for my family, and being part of a community means showing up when times are tough. We’re all neighbors, and neighbors take care of each other," she shared.

The actresses served at The Salvation Army's mobile feeding unit in Mountain City, helping to distribute over 600 meals during a busy lunchtime service. This drive-through site was a lifeline for many in the area, and Alexa and Taylor were there, front and center, to greet survivors. As cars pulled up, the two stars asked each family how many meals they needed and offered extra meals for neighbors who might not be able to leave their homes. More than that, they took the time to ask how people were doing and prayed with those who were struggling in the aftermath of the storm.

"It wasn’t just about handing out food," said Taylor. "It was about letting these people know they’re not forgotten. It was powerful to hear their stories and pray with them."

The duo also spent time with the Salvation Army disaster workers, offering words of encouragement to the team that has been tirelessly serving for the past two weeks. The disaster workers were deeply appreciative of their support, as they continue to help thousands of families affected by the floodwaters.

While serving, Alexa and Taylor met Ellen Watkins, the coordinator of the local distribution center, which is housed in a former Armory building. Ellen has been working nonstop since the storm hit, organizing the distribution of food, clothing, and other essentials while also recruiting volunteers through social media. Despite her own home being flooded, Ellen’s focus has remained on the community. “These are my people. These are my family. We have to take care of them,” she told Alexa. Her dedication deeply resonated with the actresses, underscoring the resilience and strength of the local community.

The Salvation Army’s disaster response operation in East Tennessee has been ongoing for two weeks, serving over 32,000 meals and providing emotional and spiritual care to more than 1,800 survivors. These efforts are made possible by the generous support of donors and volunteers, who continue to make a difference for those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

To support The Salvation Army's disaster relief efforts in East Tennessee, please visit helpsalvationarmy.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Every contribution helps provide meals, care, and hope to families in need during this challenging time.