Across Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the DMV, Salvation Army Corps in the Potomac Division are providing continuing shelter services and adding additional warming centers during this winter storm and into the week ahead. Seeking to protect individuals and families from dangerous cold temperatures and potential power outages, Salvation Army services are especially critical for people experiencing homelessness, seniors, and others at heightened risk during winter storms.
“Salvation Army units across our Division are prepared to provide services where needed. They have ties to local government, first responders, and other agencies to cover what is needed most for neighbors in need,” said Major Daniel Nelson, Potomac Divisional Commander. “We have assembled a team to review the conditions and identify unmet needs and will provide support for our local operations.”
Here are a few examples of early response to the weather conditions across The Salvation Army Potomac Division. Those seeking services in this region may find their local Salvation Army location by visiting https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usa-southern-territory/potomac/.
Maryland
The Salvation Army Central Maryland Area Command in Baltimore is continuing their nightly FEEDMORE program. The mobile canteen will be out on the streets providing hot food, warm drinks, and essential items to the community.
In Frederick, Maryland, The Salvation Army has shared news of their Day Center with the community, offering a safe, warm place with a meal and snacks.
Virginia
Funded by a City of Lynchburg Community Block Grant, The Salvation Army of Lynchburg VA opened a low-barrier warming center at the Corps gymnasium on Friday evening. The center will be open 24/7 starting Friday, January 23, with a hot meal served daily at 4:30 p.m.
West Virginia
The emergency shelter is open at The Salvation Army of Wheeling. Staffing coverage for those services is provided by a partnership with local organization LifeHub. If power outages occur, a center will be added to the Corps location with the support of the county emergency management agency.
In Parkersburg, West Virginia, The Salvation Army of Parkersburg opened a warming center with meals and cots on January 21.
Washington, D.C.
The Salvation Army National Capital Area Command includes The Salvation Army Sherman Avenue Corps which serves as a hypothermia shelter in partnership with the District of Columbia.
As the storm continues to bring precipitation — and temperatures remain in the single digits — local Salvation Army units are monitoring the situation, providing direct assistance and working with community partners to support the communities in which they live and serve.
As a trusted disaster response organization, The Salvation Army is uniquely positioned to serve, already operating in nearly every zip code in America. This local presence allows teams to respond quickly with trained personnel, established facilities, and lifesaving resources when disaster strikes.
How the Public Can Help
The Salvation Army’s response is made possible only through the generosity of donors. The most effective way to help is through a financial contribution, which provides flexibility to purchase exactly what is needed in the affected communities.
Ways to Give:
- Online: www.helpsalvationarmy.org
- By Phone: 1-800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769)
