Sixty-one counties within Missouri and Illinois were under tornado warnings on April 2, while The Salvation Army Midland Division prepared to send emergency response teams out immediately following the dangerous storms.
Within 30 minutes of tornadoes touching down in Nevada, MO, and Moundville, MO, The Salvation Army Jasper-Newton County Corps team deployed to help. They brought a canteen stocked with water, snacks, meals and personnel to provide emotional and spiritual care for survivors and first responders.
Upon arrival in Nevada, Salvation Army disaster workers were directed by the sheriff’s department to drive on to Moundville because they suffered more extensive damage and needed additional assistance. When The Salvation Army reached the village they connected with VFW post volunteers and a group of unaffiliated volunteers who arrived on UTVs. They joyfully served together.
“When a tornado hits a community everyone’s life is turned upside down,” said Major Adam Moore, General Secretary and Greater St. Louis Area Commander. Resources become scarce, communication difficult, and everything familiar is gone. We provide survivors with reassurance and stability while helping them figure out their next steps. Recovery is a long-term process, and it’s much easier when someone walks with you through it.”
As additional unmet needs are identified, The Salvation Army will enlarge its footprint to continue serving everyone who was impacted by the tornadoes.
The community is encouraged to contribute financially to recovery efforts near and far by donating online at https://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/midland/ or by phone at 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
For information about becoming an Emergency Disaster Services Volunteer, visit our EDS Volunteer Hub.
