The Salvation Army of KY, TN prepare to respond to hurricane aftermath

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – The Salvation Army of Kentucky will team up with The Salvation Army of Tennessee to potentially help respond to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

Officials say as Tropical Storm Helene moves across Georgia and threatens Tennessee and Kentucky with heavy rain and strong winds over the coming days, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) teams in both states are preparing to respond.

The Salvation Army says with significant power outages possible across the region, its primary response will focus on feeding services using its mobile kitchen units. These units, positioned in key locations across Kentucky and Tennessee, are capable of serving 500 to 1,500 meals per day to disaster survivors.

“We’ve been preparing all week to respond if Helene causes severe damage in our area,” said Bo Sells, Divisional Director of Emergency Disaster Services for The Salvation Army of Kentucky and Tennessee. “Our teams are equipped to serve not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually, providing holistic care to those affected by disasters like this tropical storm.”

Officials say The Salvation Army is closely coordinating with state emergency management agencies and other disaster relief organizations in Kentucky and Tennessee to assess needs and determine where their services are most urgently required. In addition to preparing for a local response, The Salvation Army is surging resources to Florida and Georgia, where Helene has already caused widespread damage. Should the need arise, units from Kentucky and Tennessee may be deployed to support relief efforts in those states.

“The Salvation Army is committed to responding as soon as it is safe to do so,” Sells added, “and we will remain in communities as long as we are needed.”

Officials say the best way to support The Salvation Army’s disaster relief efforts is through financial contributions, which allow the organization to provide immediate and flexible assistance. Donations can be made online , by phone at 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2169) or by mailing a check to The Salvation Army at PO Box 436437, Louisville, KY 40253 with the Memo of Hurricane Helene 2024.

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