ROME, GA (November 3, 2026) – The Salvation Army of Georgia has dedicated an Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) canteen to its Rome Corps, strengthening the organization’s ability to respond to disasters and provide meals to individuals and families in need throughout Northwest Georgia.
The dedication took place October 21 in conjunction with the Rome Corps Advisory Board meeting, marking an important step in expanding the Corps’ capacity to serve communities throughout Chattooga, Floyd, and Polk counties.
The vehicle, a 1999 Disaster Response Unit, was transferred from another location in Georgia. The canteen has relatively low mileage, has been well maintained, and is fully operational and ready for deployment.
“The availability of a dedicated canteen in Rome strengthens our ability to respond quickly and provide practical, compassionate assistance when disasters strike,” said Lanita Lloyd, Emergency Disaster Services Director for The Salvation Army of Georgia. “These vehicles are an essential part of our disaster response efforts, allowing our teams to deliver meals, refreshments, and encouragement to first responders and people affected by emergencies. Having this resource positioned in Rome will help us serve communities throughout the region more effectively.”
Chattooga, Floyd, and Polk counties have experienced significant weather-related emergencies in recent years, including tornadoes, damaging winds, and flooding. The Rome Corps has an established disaster response team that has served residents affected by these incidents and has also deployed to assist with disasters in other parts of Georgia when called upon.
Lt. Cory Tilley, commanding officer of The Salvation Army Rome Corps, said the canteen will enhance the Corps’ ability to serve its neighbors both during emergencies and through ongoing community outreach.
“We are grateful to have this vehicle dedicated to the Rome Corps and the communities we serve,” said Lt. Tilley. “When disaster strikes, people need more than a meal. They need to know someone cares and that help is available. This canteen will allow our team to be better prepared to meet those needs, whether we are responding to a local emergency or supporting disaster relief efforts elsewhere in Georgia.”
Beyond emergency deployments, the Rome Corps plans to use the canteen for ongoing community feeding initiatives, helping provide meals to individuals and families experiencing hardship. This dual purpose will allow the vehicle to serve the community throughout the year while keeping the Corps prepared to mobilize when emergencies arise.
The dedication reflects The Salvation Army’s ongoing commitment to preparedness, community partnership, and service to people in need. By strengthening its local disaster response resources, the Rome Corps will be better positioned to bring practical assistance, hope, and encouragement to residents facing difficult circumstances.
For more information about The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services and its disaster response efforts, visit SalArmyEDS.org.
