PRESS RELEASE
Let the Serving Begin
Fargo Salvation Army finally in full response mode
FARGO, N.D. – April 5, 2011 – After months of preparation, the Fargo Salvation Army is in full swing serving the community as it battles the rising waters of the Red River. Until today, unexpected precipitation and freezing cold had delayed the community’s flood response.
Salvation Army staff and volunteers aboard five mobile kitchens are providing sandwiches, snacks, coffee and cold drinks for local residents and relief workers throughout Fargo/Moorhead. Additional disaster teams are serving from fixed meal sites at Scheels Arena in Fargo and Nemzek Arena in Moorhead.
“If the river continues to rise at current rates, it is likely to reach 39 feet by Sunday evening, barring any additional rainfall,” said Captain Bill Mealy, Fargo Salvation Army administrator. “We are prepared to offer everything we can, every single day we are needed.”
Here is a snapshot of the Fargo Salvation Army’s flood response:
Personnel: More than 400 trained volunteers ready to serve. Six extra disaster professionals arrived last week. Up to 75 staff and volunteers serving every day.
Supplies: Warehouse inventory stocked with a semi-load of water, a dozen pallets of food, cleaning kits and much more. Capable of making and distributing 10,000 sandwiches daily.
Logistics: A command center has been established, complete with large-screen TV technology used to map and manage mobile feeding units.
To donate to the Fargo Salvation Army, call 800-SAL-ARMY or mail a check to 304 Roberts St., Fargo, ND 58102. Be sure to designate your donation “Fargo floods.” To volunteer, call the Fargo Salvation Army at 701-232-5565. Click below to make an online donation.
