PRESS RELEASE
Salvation Army Responds After Oklahoma Tornadoes
February 11, 2009 – The Salvation Army immediately responded yesterday after tornadoes hit multiple locations throughout Oklahoma leaving at least eight dead and 14 seriously injured. Salvation Army emergency disaster services (EDS) teams and mobile feeding units (canteens) were deployed to impacted areas. The Salvation Army is working closely with local and state emergency management officials to ensure the needs of first-responders and survivors are being met as EDS teams are providing meals and drinks as well as emotional and spiritual care.
Locations where EDS teams and canteens have been deployed include northwestern Oklahoma City, where a tornado hit a heavily populated area of apartments and businesses; Edmond, where a tornado touched down in two areas, first destroying six homes then several barns and outbuildings; and Lone Grove, where the fatalities and serious injuries occurred as the entire city sustained heavy damage. More than 50 less-serious injuries also have been reported as the house-to-house search and rescue operation continues in Lone Grove.
Additionally, 29,000 electric customers in the state are reported to be without power. Golf ball to baseball-sized hail was reported from multiple locations.
The Salvation Army serves in more than 100 countries and provides both immediate emergency assistance and long-term recovery help in the event of any disaster. Funds for The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services come from corporate and private donations given specifically for disaster relief. To volunteer with The Salvation Army or to make a credit card donation, call 651-746-3400 or 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Checks made out to The Salvation Army may be sent to 2445 Prior Ave., Roseville, MN 55113. Click below to make an online donation.
