"The Salvation Army is committed to being a constant presence, offering not just physical support, but also a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, and a reminder that no one is alone in this," says national commander.

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 crews.

“I’d always gravitated toward children with special needs, children who are extremely vulnerable,” teacher Lori Barry explains. “These children need so much attention, but they often fall between the cracks.” Lori has been teaching now for 30 years, most of that time in special education. “I’ve spent a career teaching the children that no one else wanted to teach, that no one wanted to commit to—and they’ve changed my life.”