New cook top helps prepare meals faster via Saint John’s Community Response Unit

Seeing The Salvation Army’s Community Response Unit (CRU) arrive in your community brings tears to the eyes of some who have been affected by disasters and weather events such as those of Hurricane Dorian that recently impacted many Nova Scotia communities.

During the flooding events in New Brunswick earlier this year, many dedicated volunteers traveled around in the CRU offering meals to first responders and volunteers supporting flood relief efforts. The six- burner gas-fired stove was operating on a daily basis in the CRU, cooking anything from hamburgers to chicken stir-frys. These items were cooked in two frying pans, which delayed the expediency of delivery.

“We are blessed to provide first responders and volunteers with upwards of 600 meals at one event via the CRU, but sometimes the preparation was slow; we are grateful for the patience of our volunteers and for those waiting for meals,” says Louise Armstrong, Emergency Disaster Services Coordinator for Saint John.

While responding to flood relief efforts, Ready Arc Training and Testing identified the opportunity to design and provide a custom-made stainless steel griddle that can quickly cook 30 burgers at one time. This generous donation valued at $1500, will have a positive impact on those both preparing and receiving meals.

Jason Martin, owner of Ready Arc Training and Testing believes in the mission of The Salvation Army. He says, “By providing the new griddle for the CRU, we are playing a vital role in helping to serve our community in times of need.”

Volunteers visited Ready Arc Training and Testing staff recently with a prepared lunch off the new griddle as a thank you for this generous donation that will have lasting impact.