Salvation Army personnel from St Louis, Missouri, USA, are providing practical assistance and spiritual support in nearby Ferguson, where there has been significant public unrest following the shooting of an unarmed 18-year-old, Michael Brown, by a local police officer.

The Salvation Army is part of a multi-agency task force which is providing a community resource drop-in centre to allow residents impacted by the events in Ferguson to get respite and receive a hot meal, food, personal care products and, for young people, the opportunity to participate in children's activities. During the first day of operation, The Salvation Army served 230 hot meals, 414 drinks and 420 healthy snacks.

Major Lonneal Richardson, Commander of The Salvation Army's Midland Division, says: 'The tragic events unfolding in Ferguson, Missouri, have impacted us all deeply. As we move forward, we are asking God to give us wisdom to heal our community.' He adds: 'We offer our deepest sympathies to the family of Mr Brown and to all who have been affected.'

Major Richardson and his staff will continue to participate with other community leaders in working together for the good of the people of Ferguson.