Thunder Bay Flooding Response 2012

On Monday, May 28, 2012 heavy rains caused severe flooding in Thunder Bay. People who were displaced because of flooding and sewer back-ups were evacuated to a shelter at the Neebing Arena which is on the outskirts of the city. The Salvation Army’s Thunder Bay Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team began immediately providing meals and hydration for up to 200 people at the arena and in the affected areas.

Starting on Wednesday, May 30 members of the Ontario Great Lakes Divisional Emergency Response Team were deployed along with other EDS volunteers from throughout the Division to assist the local team with response efforts. In addition a second Community Response Unit from Winnipeg was deployed to help.

Volunteers work to provide hydration and nourishment.

In the days that followed EDS personnel provided meals, hydration as well as emotional and spiritual support to those affected.

“The Salvation Army remains committed to assisting the residents of Thunder Bay both in the short term as well as during the long term recovery process”, says Perron Goodyear, Divisional Director of Emergency & Disaster Services.

As the initial response stage begins to wind down The Salvation Army is developing strategies for the long term resources and support that may be provided to those affected.

Coordinators Dan Millar and Shannon Daniels review daily plans.