The Salvation Army Serves First Responders After Mass Casualty Incident in New Orleans
New Years celebrations in the city of New Orleans turned tragic early in the morning of January 1, when a truck drove through the crowds of revelers, killing and injuring many.
In response, the city of New Orleans, as well as federal law enforcement, homeland security, and members of the National Guard began round-the-clock operations throughout the French Quarter and the blockaded investigation area.
At the request of Homeland Security, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services stationed a mobile feeding unit on each end of Canal Street and ran 24-hour service with coffee, hot chocolate, cold drinks, and snacks. Throughout the cold night and into the next morning, crews drove ATVs up and down Canal Street serving grateful first responders.
Representatives from the New Orleans Department of Homeland Security thanked The Salvation Army for the speed and efficacy of the response. Major Ed Binnix, incident commander for this event and area commander for the New Orleans Salvation Army, said, “While we very much regret the circumstances, we are honored to be able to serve. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the witnesses, survivors, and loved ones whose lives have been upended.”
News Briefs
- On December 18, The Salvation Army of Hendersonville, North Carolina partnered with Walmart to bring hope, food, and a bit of holiday cheer through Christmas shopping to more than 100 local families. In the wake of Hurricane Helene, many in Hendersonville and the surrounding area dealt with– and are still dealing with–unimaginably challenging circumstances. “We get to be able to bless families,” Captain Phillip Stokes, corps officer, told the local media. “We have some here who would never think they were going to have Christmas because of the devastation with the hurricane.” The event featured a meal, and Walmart presented each family with a $500 gift card for groceries and Christmas shopping.
- In early January, devastating wildfires swept through Southern California, displacing tens of thousands and causing an unimaginable toll in both injury and property damage. The Salvation Army quickly sprang into action to support those affected, as well as the brave first responders who continue to fight the fires. As of mid-January, The Salvation Army served more than 3,000 meals and provided emotional and spiritual care to more than 500 individuals at American Red Cross emergency shelters and the Family Assistance Center in Pasadena. In addition, 43 Salvation Army corps gathered in a special time of prayer on Sunday, January 12. “It was somber, said Lt. Colonel Mike Dickinson, divisional commander for Southern California. “Today I sat with people who have lost everything but their hope. Their resolute faith was humbling. I hugged families that experienced total loss. They’re numb, but so grateful they are alive and giving thanks to God for their temporary shelter and a supportive church family.