Massachusetts volunteers arrive in southern states impacted by Hurricane Helene

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Salvation Army sent four people from Massachusetts to assist in Hurricane Helene relief efforts.

These volunteers landed Monday afternoon in Georgia and Florida, where millions are without power and thousands are stranded. Hurricane Helene is the second hurricane to reach Category 4 status this year. The death toll as of now is at 116 with one third of those in North Carolina.

The Salvation Army staff members include:

• Captain Enmanuel Villegas –The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (Greater Boston/Lynn Team) – Georgia
• Luz Caban, The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (New Bedford Team) – Florida
• Pam Houghton, The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (Newburyport Team) – Florida
• Cindy Kennedy, The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (Athol Team) – Florida

While the Coast Guard and other authorities are working around the clock, Emily Mew with The Salvation Army says these states need more help, “Down south they are pretty stretched thin as far as personnel. I mean this is the first time in a long time that they’ve requested so many personnel which really speaks to the devastation that they’re seeing and the extent of the damage and the trauma that people are experiencing.”

“In the coming days and weeks, The Salvation Army will deploy additional mobile feeding units to provide meals and drinks, along with Emotional and Spiritual Care officers, a listening ear, and community resources to people affected by the storm. These dedicated teams will bring not only physical nourishment but also love, comfort, and compassionate care, surrounding individuals and families with support as they journey through this difficult time,” said Emily Mew, Director of The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services in Massachusetts. “With the continued generosity of the public, we will remain on the frontlines of this disaster, serving those affected by the storm for however long we are needed.”

While The Salvation Army is not looking for volunteers, Mew says the best way to help is with monetary donations.

To make a financial gift to support Hurricane Helene relief:

• Donate online: www.HelpSalvationArmy.org
• Donate by phone: 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769)
• Donate by mail:
  • The Salvation Army
  • P.O. BOX 1959
  • Atlanta, GA 30301
  • (Please designate Disaster Relief – Hurricane Helene on all checks.)

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Jack Wu joined the 22News Storm Team in July 2023. Follow Jack on X @the_jackwu and view his bio to see more of his work.

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