Ready to Serve: The Salvation Army Supports Evacuees in Happy Valley-Goose Bay

On July 12, residents of Labrador West were ordered to evacuate as wildfires threatened their safety. Over 10,000 people packed up and headed east to Happy Valley-Goose Bay, uncertain about where they would stay, what they would eat, or when they could return home.

The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team stepped in to provide crucial support to evacuees and volunteers, offering food, clothing, and emotional & spiritual care.

Major Kay Barnes, the local Salvation Army Officer, explained their rapid response:

“When we got the call that people were en route to our community, we activated right away. We started brewing coffee and preparing snacks so that when they arrived late that night, they were greeted with a smiling face, snacks, and a hot beverage.”

EDS Specialist and team lead, Mike Barry, coordinated the efforts of 26 volunteers to ensure that all three shelters received meals. Barry shared a touching story about a young man who arrived with nothing but the clothes on his back and a backpack: “We were able to get him some clothes and a voucher to buy new clothing and toiletries. We don’t know people’s situation, and we try to help.”

The volunteers, many of whom had never met, quickly formed a cohesive unit. “We worked together as well as we could for a group of strangers, and we leave now as friends,” said volunteer Debbie Murley. Jennifer Lowe, another volunteer, added:

“My team was exceptional, which made it so much easier. I feel like I made lifelong friends.”

The EDS team served over 13,360 meals during the 10-day evacuation, with strong support from community partners. The volunteers’ efforts extended beyond providing meals and practical support, as they also offered a listening ear and spiritual care.

Reflecting on the experience, Major Barnes said, “It’s been a learning experience, an eye-opener for me, and a time I will never forget. I believe God placed me here at the right time to help and support and realize that there’s always work to do in The Salvation Army, in any town or community you find yourself in.”