The Salvation Army Prepares to Assist in Response to Hurricane Milton
The Salvation Army of Orange and Osceola Counties Prepares to Assist in Response to Hurricane Milton
[ORLANDO, FL] (October 8, 2024) — As Hurricane Milton approaches Central Florida, The Salvation Army of Orange and Osceola Counties is ramping up its efforts to provide essential services to those affected. On the heels of Hurricane Helene, The Salvation Army is once again stepping forward to support the community, ensuring that those in need have access to shelter, food, and emergency assistance.
The Women’s & Children’s Shelter and the Men’s & Veterans’ Shelter at The Salvation Army’s Orlando Area Command will remain open 24 hours a day, offering emergency shelter and safe refuge for those experiencing homelessness while in the path of Hurricane Milton. In addition to providing a secure place to stay, residents will be given warm meals and access to showers, helping to maintain the comfort and dignity of our neighbors in need.
Ahead of Hurricane Milton, The Salvation Army is distributing shelter bags to those in need, providing essential supplies to help them endure the severe conditions. They are also informing the unhoused about its available shelter options.
In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Milton, The Salvation Army is prepared to mobilize its Emergency Disaster Services teams to respond to the hardest-hit areas, including those suffering from flooding. “Our mobile canteen and rapid response vehicle, capable of distributing up to 1,500 meals per day, will be deployed to provide critical food supplies to affected individuals and families,” said Major Ken Chapman, Area Commander, The Salvation Army. Alongside meals, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Response teams will distribute toiletry kits and offer spiritual care. A vital part of The Salvation Army’s mission is providing spiritual care as it preaches the Gospel of Jesus Christ and serves suffering humanity while loving and serving inclusively without discrimination.
While in-kind donations of new items will be accepted after the storm—such as blankets, socks, towels, toiletries, baby supplies, pre-packaged snacks, and wipes—the most effective way for the public to support The Salvation Army’s widespread relief efforts is through monetary donations. Financial contributions allow The Salvation Army to quickly mobilize resources to where they are needed most and provide flexibility in meeting the evolving needs of the community.
Donations can be made by visiting helpsalvationarmy.org. For those interested in staying updated on The Salvation Army’s local efforts and response to Hurricane Milton, the TSA Orlando mobile app is available for free download, offering real-time information from the palm of your hand.
Together, with the support of the community, The Salvation Army of Orange and Osceola Counties remains committed to helping those in need weather the storm and rebuild in the days to come.
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