The Salvation Army’s Disaster Relief Services is prepared to assist in the wake of all types of disasters, natural or otherwise.  Below is a list of services offered when The Salvation Army provides disaster relief.

If you think you’d like to be a member of our Disaster Relief team, please contact The Salvation Army Hampton Roads Area Command at 757-543-8100.

Spiritual Ministry

Counseling victims, consoling the injured and distressed, comforting the bereaved, conducting funeral and memorial services, chaplaincy services to staff and volunteers.

Counseling

Individual and family trauma counseling and emotional support.

Identification/Registration

Locating victims and providing information and communication to inquiring family and friends.

Mobile Feeding

Where needed, mobile feeding units serve hot meals to victims and relief personnel on site.

Congregate Feeding

Salvation Army buildings and other sites are used for preparation and service of meals to victims and relief personnel.

Financial Assistance

Financial grants for immediate needs are made to victims who demonstrate need. No repayment of grants is sought or required.

Shelter

Shelters may be established and maintained in Salvation Army facilities or other sites. Programs include child care to allow adult family members to salvage personal effects, apply for long-term assistance, schedule reconstruction and undertake other necessary tasks.

Donated Materials

The generosity of Americans enables The Salvation Army to solicit and distribute water, non-perishable foods, furniture, house-keeping supplies, building materials, and other basic necessities. The Salvation Army will, where appropriate and necessary, establish and maintain depots to facilitate the program.

Basic Commodities

The Salvation Army may elect to purchase and distribute basic commodities not readily available at the time of need. These may include, but not be limited to, food, water, health and sanitary needs, baby and child care products, medicines, bedding and other items for which an immediate need exists.

Reconstruction

In major disasters, The Salvation Army may accept responsibility to coordinate or assist with reconstruction efforts. The Salvation Army may establish depots for distribution of donated building supplies and may establish a financial aid office.

Support programs may be established including child care centers, educational and after school programs, recreation, leisure activities, individual/family counseling and other support programs. Support programs allow adults to focus on rebuilding efforts with the assurance that children are receiving quality care in a safe environment.

Services to Volunteers

The Salvation Army recruits, trains and utilizes volunteers. Registered volunteers may be provided with housing, meals, and support services including transportation, if necessary and available.

Advocacy

Certified social workers, human services aides and officers are assigned to provide a professional level of assistance including advocacy and referral to private and public assistance programs.