The History of Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services

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The Salvation Army has existed to serve without discrimination since its founding in 1865, and has faithfully kept that tradition of service ever since. Here’s a brief overview of The Salvation Army‘s Emergency Disaster Service responses throughout the years.

Intro: The Salvation Army has existed to serve without discrimination since its founding in 1865, and has faithfully kept that tradition of service ever since. 

Here’s a brief overview of The Salvation Army‘s response to the many different needs of the community throughout the years.

If you need help, or want to help, please visit salvationarmyusa.org.

Read the transcript of the video here:

The great San Francisco earthquake left over half of the city’s population without homes. The Salvation Army was quick to establish feeding stations and shelters able to feed and serve thousands of survivors. 

During World War One, Salvation Army women volunteered and went straight to the frontlines to make hot doughnuts and apple pie for the soldiers. They were nicknamed the doughnut girls and the warm tasty reminder of home they provided was greatly appreciated. 

When the Great Depression hit, The Salvation Army expanded their services of feeding lines and food distribution to provide more homeless shelters and lodging for the multitudes affected by poverty. Not only continuing the tradition of serving doughnuts and mobile canteens, Salvation Army volunteers would often be found working in the field hospitals during World War Two. 

The Salvation Army was the first relief organization to arrive at Ground Zero on September 11, 2001. During the next few months of recovery they were able to serve a total of 3.2 million meals to first responders and other volunteers. 

When Hurricane Katrina hit The Salvation Army mobilized more than 170 canteen feeding units and 11 field kitchens, which together served more than 5.7 million hot meals. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, The Salvation Army is still at work, serving around the clock and providing hope to those that need it most. In times of despair and in times of need The Salvation Army has been there and will continue to because hope is greater than fear. 


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