Nearly two weeks have passed following the recent industrial plant explosion in rural Tennessee. The Salvation Army’s disaster response teams remain on the ground serving families affected by the tragedy. Response efforts are currently concentrated in the Waverly area, where The Salvation Army has been providing financial assistance, emotional and spiritual care, and relief supplies to those impacted by the explosion.
“The Salvation Army is fortunate to work with some wonderful partners in disaster response who come alongside us to help establish service quickly and effectively for those in need,” said Scott Tibbitts, Kentucky & Tennessee Emergency Disaster Services Director for The Salvation Army. “We are particularly grateful to the Midwest Food Bank for their generous donations of food products and household cleaning supplies, which have significantly strengthened our service delivery in Waverly.”
“Our network of partners responds quickly to provide for additional needs as soon as disaster strikes,” Tibbitts added. “Their support makes it possible for us to reach more people and meet their immediate, unique needs.”
As of Wednesday, October 22, The Salvation Army and Midwest Food Bank have distributed more than 800 food boxes and essential household items to employees and their families affected by the explosion. These resources are available at the family assistance center in Waverly, Tennessee. In addition, Salvation Army response teams are facilitating mobile distribution of relief supplies to individuals who are unable to access the assistance center.
Based on current community needs, The Salvation Army anticipates that relief operations in Waverly will continue through Friday, October 24th as teams work closely with the industrial agency, Compassion Church, and other local partners to coordinate ongoing support and recovery efforts.
If you would like to assist with The Salvation Army’s response efforts, please consider making a financial donation at helpsalvationarmy.org. Most importantly, please keep the families and community members affected by this tragedy in your prayers.
