The Salvation Army is mobilizing resources to respond to the destructive earthquake that struck the Caribbean island of Haiti on Tuesday. The country is paralyzed and many are without power, clean water, and food after the quake all but destroyed the city of Port au Prince.

The Salvation Army in Canada is sending an immediate $100,000 USD and a fundraising campaign has begun to support the humanitarian response.

“We are compelled to do whatever we can to help the victims of this terrible disaster”, said Commissioner William Francis, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army for Canada & Bermuda. “Our prayers are with the people of Haiti and we will continue to respond in the best manner possible.”

The country's infrastructure has been shattered and many of The Salvation Army's buildings and facilities have seen significant damage, but personnel on the ground responded immediately, offering as much assistance as possible, including some shelter, food and clean water. The organization's administrative compound is being used as an emergency operations centre with people sleeping in the parking lot.

The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) is standing by to assist the public with Health and Welfare requests from individuals seeking information on family members in the affected area of Haiti. To submit a request, please go to www.satern.org and click on the "Health and Welfare Information Request" link.

The Salvation Army began its work in Haiti in 1950. Currently, services offered include 3 medical facilities, social service institutions and dozens of schools serving more than 10,000 children.

Please support The Salvation Army's relief effort in Haiti. Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca, by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.

When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

For further information please contact:

Andrew Burditt
Territorial Public Relations Director
The Salvation Army
416-845-8231
andrew_burditt@can.salvationarmy.org