BRANTLEY COUNTY, GA — The Salvation Army of Georgia is actively responding to wildfires in South Georgia by providing meals, snacks, and hydration to emergency responders in Brantley County.
As wildfire activity across the state continues to intensify, The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team is engaged in ongoing coordination with local and state emergency management officials to ensure readiness and rapid deployment of resources when conditions allow.
In Clinch and Echols counties, the Pineland Road Fire has grown to an estimated 29,606 acres and is currently 10% contained. Meanwhile, the Brantley County Fire has reached approximately 4,438 acres and is 15% contained, with 54 homes reported destroyed.
“Our teams are working alongside emergency management and first responders to meet immediate needs on the ground,” said Lanita Lloyd, Director of Emergency Disaster Services for The Salvation Army of Georgia. “A hot meal or a cold bottle of water may seem simple, but in the middle of a wildfire response, it provides critical support and a reminder that these crews are not alone.”
Ongoing drought conditions, combined with no significant rainfall in the forecast, continue to elevate fire risk across Georgia. Many of the affected areas rely heavily on timber and agriculture, amplifying the economic impact of these fires. Smoke and haze from the South Georgia wildfires have also spread widely, reaching into the Atlanta metro area.
In response to the escalating situation, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has declared a state of emergency for 91 counties, and the State Operations Center has been activated. The Salvation Army remains in constant communication with the State Operations Center and stands ready to deploy additional resources as needed.
To date, The Salvation Army has provided more than 600 meals to first responders in Brantley County, along with ongoing snack and hydration support. The organization has been asked to extend meal service operations for an additional seven days.
“Whenever disaster strikes, The Salvation Army is committed to responding with both practical help and compassionate care,” Lloyd added. “As long as these wildfires continue to impact communities, we will remain engaged, ready to adapt, and prepared to serve wherever we are needed most.
Currently, meals are being prepared at The Salvation Army’s St. Marys Service Center and will soon transition to the Brunswick Corps, with continued support from the Waycross Corps.
The Salvation Army of Georgia will continue to maintain direct communication with the Clinch County Emergency Management Agency, while its Valdosta Corps remains in close coordination with Echols County Emergency Management to address emerging needs.
How You Can Help:
In times of disaster, The Salvation Army is a trusted responder. With the generous support of communities, The Salvation Army can meet immediate needs during disaster responses. The best way to help relief workers and those impacted by disasters is to make a financial contribution. Financial contributions allow disaster responders to immediately meet the specific needs of those impacted.
- Donate Online: helpsalvationarmy.org
- Donate by Phone: 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769)
