Thursday, 21 January 2010 16:53 Written by Nick

(Fort Myers, FL)  The canteen (mobile kitchen) has been checked and approved road-worthy for travel. The trailer has been stocked with food and supplies. A crew has been contacted and told to be ready at a moments notice to leave Ft. Myers and head for either Miami International Airport or Homestead Air Force Base to assist with the repatriation of American citizens from earthquake torn Haiti.

The United States government has asked The Salvation Army and State Emergency Management to help coordinate efforts in helping American citizens when they arrive at either Miami International Airport and/or Homestead Air Force Base.

The Salvation Army’s task is to support services such as feeding operations (snacks, hydration etc) and basic supplies for those coming with just the clothes on their back. It will be at these two locations where American citizens can receive medical attention, counseling, and communication with family.

“We are on a heighten standby status for the Ft. Myers canteen and crew to be ready for service,” stated Major Ann Penhale, Corp Officer. “This is our service to help those in need who are returning to America. We have been praying fervently for the people of Haiti and all those connected with the relief work being done,” added Penhale. 

The Salvation Army canteen has the capability of providing up to 1,500 meals a day for this mission. The trailer that will be pulled behind the canteen is stocked with 3 days worth of food and supplies. This trained crew of three is diversified in the duties driving, cooking, stocking, maintenance and mechanics.

The Salvation Army has had a presence in Haiti since 1950 and its personnel who were affected by the earthquake are now working to assist others in need. The Salvation Army operates schools, clinics, a hospital, feeding programs, children’s homes and church-related activities through some 60 Corps community centers across Haiti.

The public can help The Army most right now by making a financial gift that gives them the purchasing power needed to care for disaster survivors.

The local corps office is accepting monetary donations for the victims of the earthquake at the following drop-off locations:

Salvation Army Administrative Office
10291 McGregor Blvd

Salvation Army Red Shield Lodge
2400 Edison Avenue