As wildfires continue to impact communities across Newfoundland and Labrador, The Salvation Army’s emergency disaster services (EDS) teams are providing critical support to evacuees, first responders and ground search and rescue (GSAR) crews—meeting both practical needs and the emotional and spiritual needs that emerge during times of crisis.

Giving Hope

Operating from its incident command post at Carbonear Academy, N.L., The Salvation Army has served around 8,500 meals to date, including at the evacuation centre, through hotel delivery and to first responders. Alongside meals, evacuees are receiving snacks, hydration and compassionate emotional and spiritual care (ESC) from trained team members who offer a listening ear, encouragement and prayer when requested.

Additionally, in Conception Bay South, N.L., Salvation Army teams are operating two evacuation centres for residents displaced by the Paddy’s Pond fire, while near the Martin’s Lake wildfire, EDS personnel are serving more than 20 meals daily to GSAR crews and offering food and reassurance to travellers delayed along Route 360.

Coming Together

Volunteers remain at the heart of the operation, with 30–50 people on-site each day, spread across multiple locations, contributing more than 2,000 volunteer hours so far. These dedicated teams prepare and serve meals, stock a constantly replenished fridge with water and other cold drinks, and manage a snack table where evacuees can help themselves as needed. In between tasks, they stop to talk with evacuees, share a laugh or offer words of comfort—simple moments that bring calm in the midst of uncertainty.

“Every meal served, every bottle of water handed out, and every conversation we have is about more than just meeting a need—it’s about reminding people they’re not alone,” says John Bignell, divisional director of emergency disaster services, Atlantic Division. “In times like this, we see the very best of our communities come together.”

The Salvation Army continues to work closely with the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre, wildfire command and local municipalities to ensure support remains timely, coordinated, and effective.

How to Help

Community members wishing to contribute can give a donation online at salvationarmy.ca/wildfires, enabling the team to respond quickly to evolving needs.

With the wildfire situation still developing, The Salvation Army remains committed to providing steady, compassionate service in the days ahead—offering practical help, emotional care and hope to evacuees and their communities.