In the wake of catastrophic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene in far eastern Tennessee, The Salvation Army of Kentucky and Tennessee has begun providing crucial relief services to impacted communities.
“People have been asking me what the Salvation Army is doing to help hurricane victims and how they can donate,” said Eddie Toliver II, 360 Life Center director for the Salvation Army in Kewanee. “People that do not want to give online may bring their check or cash donations to the store and I will process them,” Toliver said.
Captain Justin Vincent, local corps officer of The Salvation Army in Sevierville, one of the corps closest to the affected areas, led his team of volunteers into action on Saturday, Sept. 28. The storm dumped more than nine inches of rain in the region, causing overwhelming floods, power outages, and destruction across multiple counties.
Captain Vincent and his team mobilized their mobile kitchen unit and traveled to heavily impacted Cocke County, serving nearly 200 meals to flood victims. The team also provided emotional and spiritual care, making 31 personal contacts during the dinner service.
“It was incredibly moving to witness someone find hope amidst such despair,” said Major Cam Henderson, area commander for The Salvation Army in Knoxville, who was present during the dinner service. “This is why we’re here—to serve not only physical needs but to bring comfort and hope to the soul.”
On Sunday, The Salvation Army’s Incident Management Team assembled in Johnson City to begin damage assessment and coordinate further relief efforts across Unicoi, Carter, Johnson, Greene and Cocke counties. The organization is prioritizing areas of greatest need and planning additional meal services as well as emotional and spiritual care outreach in the coming days.
As the relief efforts expand, The Salvation Army is in urgent need of financial contributions.
Those wishing to support the disaster response can donate online at helpsalvationarmy.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY. All donations are tax-deductible, and 100 percent of disaster-related gifts will go directly to support relief operations.
“The Salvation Army remains committed to serving East Tennessee for as long as we are needed,” said Captain Vincent. “Our mission is to provide not only food and shelter but also hope and healing to those facing this crisis.”
For more information or to request assistance, please contact the Salvation Army at the above number or visit helpsalvationarmy.org.
