PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 11, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services crews have been busy providing assistance to victims of the historic Pennsylvania flooding since Wednesday, September 7th. More than 13 Salvation Army mobile response units are currently in service across Central and Northeastern Pennsylvania providing meals at 22 temporary emergency shelter locations.
Working closely with local and county government officials and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA), the Salvation Army as of Friday, more than 2,100 meals had already been provided by volunteers logging more than 172 hours.
"We are extremely grateful for the support of our volunteers and donors," states Robert Myers III, emergency disaster services director for The Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division. "The Salvation Army remains committed 24/7 to providing those impacted with the basic services they need to get through this difficult period."
The Salvation Army is currently in need of corporate donations of drinking water and warehouse / storage space in the affected areas. Those businesses able to help should contact The Salvation Army at 215-825-4630.
Individuals interested in providing aid are encouraged to make monetary donations to The Salvation Army at www.SalvationArmyPendel.org or text STORM to 80888 to make a $10 donation using your mobile phone.* Monetary donations better allow The Salvation Army to meet the special needs of those affected by the flooding, so at this time, The Salvation Army is not accepting clothing, food, or commodity donations for disaster victims (these items are still needed at Salvation Army family thrift stores and will continue to be accepted there). Donations may also be made by sending a check to The Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Divisional Headquarters at 701 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123. Donations should be marked "Disaster Relief."
Background on Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services:
Every year, thousands of people throughout the United States find themselves victims of unforeseen disasters, whether fire, flood, explosions, violent acts, or other life-disrupting events. The Salvation Army is a first responder to the scene of these disasters, offering water, food, blankets, and human reassurance to those affected. Thanks to The Salvation Army's 131-year history in our community, they are an effective and connected community resource working seamlessly with other responders to serve victims of disasters that arise. And when the emergency is over, The Salvation Army remains to help the victims regain their footing with food, clothing and emergency shelter, as well as the counseling and social services support to rebuild their lives.
* A one-time donation of $10 will be billed to your mobile phone bill. Messaging & data rates may apply. Donations are collected for The Salvation Army by mobilecause.com. Reply STOP to 80888 to stop. Reply HELP to 80888 for help. For terms, see www.igfn.org/t.
SOURCE Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division