The Salvation Army in Guatemala is helping people affected by the eruption of the Fuego volcano, which has claimed at least 75 lives. Thousands of people are now living in temporary shelter, and President Jimmy Morales has declared three days of national mourning. The number of fatalities is likely to rise significantly once emergency responders can dig through the layers of ash that have covered some communities. At present, the ash in some places remains too hot for excavation to be possible.
As soon as it became clear that a disaster was unfolding, Salvation Army emergency teams travelled to the affected area to assess the situation and offer assistance. That first contact made it possible to establish a strategic alliance with CONRED (the National Committee for Emergencies and Disasters) and the team moved to the Escuintla and Alotenango shelters, which were in the areas of direct impact.
Working with CONRED, Salvation Army teams have conducted need assessments, prepared food, distributed food, drinking water and clothes, and given support to the CONRED emergency response logistics plan. A vital part of the response is the provision of spiritual and emotional support.
The Salvation Army is putting together plans to offer ongoing help in the areas of greatest impact, joining forces with other organizations. Funds have been set aside by International Headquarters in London to provide assistance to 500 people but donations are being sought to increase the initial capacity and also to offer longer-term help.
Donations to The Salvation Army’s Americas and Caribbean Disaster Fund can be made securely online at sar.my/amappeal
Winter Storm Social Services Response Recognized by Prime Minister
Army responds after record snowfall in Sydney, N.S.
News
Sydney, N.S., saw record snowfall in February when a multiple-day winter storm dropped more than 150 centimetres. The Salvation Army responded by providing spiritual and emotional support, and packing and distributing emergency food hampers in partnership with Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM) and the Provincial Incident Management Team.
Read More
Emergency on Planet Earth
The Salvation Army increases effort in the fight for climate justice.
FeaturesClimate change represents a growing threat to people and the planet. In 2015, the majority of countries around the world adopted the Paris Agreement, an international framework to reduce the effects of climate change by limiting the rise of global temperature to 1.5 C. Salvationist features editor Giselle Randall spoke with Major Heather Poxon, the first territorial environmental officer in the United Kingdom and Ireland Territory, about how she is helping to change hardware and hearts.
New Appointments Announced for Canada and Bermuda Territory
International Headquarters approves appointments for five officers.
NewsPlease pray for our officers as they share in these respective ministry opportunities.
Leave a Comment