Hurricane Dorian Update

The Salvation Army’s response to Hurricane Dorian continues. As it leaves the Bahamas behind, the true scale of the destruction is becoming clear. Atlantic Canada is preparing for its arrival and Salvation Army emergency disaster services are ready for deployment.

Bahamas

In Nassau, Salvation Army divisional leaders, Majors Clarence and Karen Ingram, and their staff are setting up relief efforts as the first evacuees begin to arrive from the Abaco Islands. Salvation Army shelters are being prepared for occupants, and clothes are being received and sorted, ready for distribution.

Meetings have been arranged with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and visits made to government shelters to assess needs both in Nassau and the devastated northern islands of the Bahamas.

The Salvation Army corps (church) on Eleuthera island is also ready to receive evacuees as they arrive.

The Salvation Army’s church in Freeport, on Grand Bahama, was partially damaged in the hurricane, but a working generator means they are now operational, with a functioning kitchen and a supply of food. Much of Grand Bahama is still flooded, so transport and access are very difficult, increasing the problem of sourcing sufficient supplies and staff to meet the burgeoning needs on the island.

Shelters are at capacity and transportation for rescue efforts is limited to large machinery and jet skis. As soon as they are able, the staff and volunteers in Freeport will prepare meals for distribution to the shelters.

Atlantic Canada

Hurricane Dorian is on track to hit Atlantic Canada this weekend. Communities in its path, and Salvation Army personnel, are bracing for the impact.

Salvation Army emergency disaster services teams are fully prepared and requests are being made for them to provide hydration, food and emotional and spiritual care, to those affected.

To donate and help people when disasters strike, visit SalvationArmy.ca/emergency