New Disaster Relief Initiative Unfolds in Johnson City
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — In a remarkable response to Hurricane Helene, The Salvation Army has kicked off new flood relief efforts in the Tri-Cities area, utilizing an innovative new tool called the FORTS (Fold-Out Rigid Temporary Shelter) unit. This is a first for Tennessee, and people are buzzing with excitement about the positive impact it could have on the community.
A Game-Changer for Disaster Response
As the storm left its mark on the region, The Salvation Army has swiftly moved to convert a portion of their Thrift Store parking lot in Johnson City into an Incident Command Post. Major Brooks Gilliam, the Incident Commander for the Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) Response, declared this new unit a true game-changer. “It provides the space and functionality we need to effectively coordinate our response across multiple counties,” he said. With the new unit, which unfolds to create 273 feet of operational space, the local corps can now maintain their regular services while also launching disaster relief efforts.
How the FORTS Unit Works
So, what exactly is this FORTS unit? Imagine a sturdy shelter that expands from a compact 20-square-foot structure into a functional base where emergency teams can operate seamlessly. According to The Salvation Army, this design allows for rapid deployment and constant adaptability, making it ideal for efforts such as these. What an awesome addition to the essential services during times of crisis!
Feeding the Community
The Salvation Army isn’t just stopping at shelter management; they’re actively working to support the community in multiple ways. Their team has set up six mobile kitchens that are churning out around 4,000 meals each day. It’s heartwarming to see such dedication to ensuring that everyone affected by the flooding is well-fed and taken care of. But that’s just a part of the effort; they also provide emotional and spiritual support for residents, emergency responders, and anyone else who might need a helping hand during this tough time.
Comprehensive Support and Resources
Within the initial week of the floods hitting, The Salvation Army reported an incredible array of resources being provided. They are working tirelessly to cater to various needs in the community, making sure that no one feels alone during this trying period. Whether it’s hot meals or a listening ear, the efforts are designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Looking Ahead
The relocation to the FORTS unit showcases how The Salvation Army is adapting swiftly to changing needs during a disaster. As they work with local officials, the focus continues to remain on bringing comfort and support to those affected across Johnson, Unicoi, Carter, Greene, and Cocke counties.
It’s heartening to witness both the community strength and the rapid mobilization of resources in response to the needs of the residents. This initiative stands as a beacon of hope, showing that even in the face of difficulty, collaboration and compassion can shine through.
As the recovery efforts continue, it’s clear that the community is coming together stronger than ever. So, whether you’re able to donate your time, resources, or simply need a helping hand, there’s now an active channel through The Salvation Army that stands ready to assist.
Stay connected and stay safe, Johnson City, as we navigate these challenging waters together!
