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Salvation Army relief workers are battling mud, disease and debris in Acapulco as they assist victims of Hurricane Pauline, the worst natural disaster to hit Mexico in more than a decade. More than 200 were killed and over 10,000 left homeless in her four-day assault on the nation’s south coast.
According to Western Territory Community Relations and Development Secretary Robert Bearchell, a Western team comprised of Major Chet Danielson (R), Lt. Nathanial Doria, CFOT, and Merle Miller, ARC, are in Acapulco assessing ways in which the West can best assist in relief efforts.
“Reports incidate all Salvation Army units in Acapulco are functional and are deeply involved in disaster response activities,” says Captain Art Storey, territorial disaster services coordinator.
The most serious loss of life and devastation occured in the hillside barrios where the Army corps and Children’s Home are located. Both escaped damage. Currently, the Army is feeding more than 1,000 people three meals a day. Teen-agers among the 80 children in Children’s Home are working alongside other volunteers in this effort. A medical team of doctors and nurses is working with the Army in the midst of the area most serverely hit.
An additional Spanish speaking team from the West will join the assessment team and will be dispatched to Acapulco immediately. The most urgent needs include 50 thousand gallons of water, rice and beans, medical supplies, flat bladed shovels, towels and blankets, and clothing suitable for warm days and chilly nights.
The West has committed $25,000 to relief efforts. The Central Teritory has also agreed to send $25,000 and National Headquarters will send $10,000. Funding from the East and South has yet to be determined.
Monetary donations earmarked “Hurricane Pauline Flood Relief” may be sent to your local Salvation Army unit.
