The Salvation Army Continues To Help Families Affected by Sun Prairie Explosion
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Kaitlyn Novotny, Special Events & Marketing Assistant
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The Salvation Army of Dane County to Participate in Resource “Fair” for Families affected by the Sun Prairie Explosion
SUN PRAIRIE, WI (July 13, 2018) – In the wake of a massive gas leak explosion in downtown Sun Prairie and the tragic loss of honorable father, husband, and volunteer firefighter Cory Barr, The Salvation Army of Dane County and other agencies will participate in a Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) today to help families in need of housing placement and services.
Having served over 150 people affected by the explosion yesterday and Tuesday, The Salvation Army will pool its resources and disaster-specific donations to aid a grieving community. With at least 20 families permanently displaced, multiple agencies will provide financial assistance for housing and placement, tangible donations of clothing, furniture, and household goods, as well as meals. The Salvation Army will also provide spiritual care and counseling on-site and as an ongoing service.
The MARC will take place from 2-8 PM today following a meeting of resource agencies at 1 PM. The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services team believes in a “First In, Last Out” philosophy and is a fixture in ongoing relief efforts. Alongside participating agencies, the outpouring of community support has played an integral role in the agencies’ ability to reach those in need. The work of rebuilding has just begun.
WAYS TO HELP:
Financial Assistance – Writing “Sun Prairie Relief Efforts” in the memo line of check donations guarantees 100% of these donations to The Salvation Army to be earmarked for the disaster relief efforts. Housing is most critical at this time and financial assistance for security deposit and first month’s rent is what gets people safely and effectively relocated. Disaster donations are accepted via mail, in-person, at the kettle stands, and online at salvationarmydanecounty.org.
Clothing/Furniture – Organizations such as C.A.R.D.S. Closet through the Sunshine Placeare accepting donations and will help distribute items to families in need.
Ring Bells – The EDS program is run through funding at the kettles. One shift brings in about $100, which goes a long way in the long-term relief efforts in Sun Prairie as well as other programs and services through The Salvation Army.
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About The Salvation Army’s EDS Program:
Living by the “First In, Last Out” motto, Dane County’s Emergency Disaster Services team responds to anywhere from 12-18 natural or man-made disasters in a given year. The distribution of hot meals, cold beverages, snacks, blankets, and other materials is coordinated through this department. Survivors and first responders are met on-site with the comforts of the canteen as well as the option for spiritual care in difficult times. Relief efforts can last anywhere from a couple hours to weeks or months of long-term recovery. The EDS team relies heavily on volunteer support and recruits year-round.