Salvos lend a hand with NSW fires
Major Christine Stiles with two people affected by the fires in Springwood, in the Blue Montains. (Photo by Adam Hollingworth)
With the NSW fires being declared as the worst in over a decade, we take a look at what The Salvation Army is doing to help those affected.
The Doyalson RSL Evacuation Centre opened last night at 7pm. Over the last 24 hours, a team of 17 volunteers has served 700 meals, and has provided 100 beds. While The Salvation Army has now left this evacuation centre this morning after they served breakfast, they have left behind food that can be distributed as needed.
An evacuation centre in Finnan Park at Raymond Terrace is primarily serving fire fighters and combat services. 3 shifts of 6 volunteers have been running, and The Salvation Army has been booked there until Tuesday.
In Lithgow, most people have been able to go home. Over 70 people came to the centre last night, seeking food, shelter, and comfort. Currently, there are only 2 Salvation Army representatives helping in this area.
Within the Greater West Division, about 30-40 people are active on the ground at the moment, providing food and comfort to fire fighters and people affected.
While the pressure has eased slightly from yesterday, the threats are still very real. Territorial Director of Emergency Services Norm Archer, is grateful for the people who have been a part of the services being provided.
“We want to thank the volunteers for coming on board. We want to thank the families and employers for releasing these people to be able to help in this way. The Salvation Army is about meeting people where they are at, and that’s what we’re doing”.
Territorial Commander James Condon has asked that we pray for the fire fighters, people affected, and Salvation Army personnel who are on the frontline dealing with this devastating disaster.
Comments
Gods Army and it's mission and servitude to suffering humanity. And His faithful troops, always have and always will have our prayer cover. May they always serve our Father with love and humility, may His troops never become too proud to roll up their sleeves, share their homes, share their food, hug a broken heart, weep with those who weep, take hold of the hands of the trembling homeless, taking Jesus to all they meet. May their highest priority always be to our Father God, For all they are called to be and do. In Christ Jesus, out Saviour. From those of us, His bond servants. we speak out before all men, that it is you we offer up all the glory, to you alone God our Father. The glory is yours.
El-Shaddi