The Salvation Army Emergency Services Disaster Team Pools Resources from Across Southwest Michigan Following Devasting Tornadoes

Weeks after tornadoes touched down in Southwest Michigan, The Salvation Army Great Lakes Division is pooling resources from corps and community centers from across Southwest Michigan as they transition from immediate to long-term needs of those affected.

Four people, including a 12-year-old boy, lost their lives when the storms devastated parts of Branch, Cass, and St. Joseph counties March 6. Immediately following the storm, The Salvation Army of Sturgis went door-to-door with meals and clean-up supplies and The Salvation Army in Kalamazoo also responded distributing tarps and cleaning kits to families. 

In Union City, most of the damage was done along Union Lake, where some homes were destroyed leaving only their foundation.

The week of March 15, The Salvation Army canteen from Grand Rapids traveled daily to Union City, stopping on the way, to pick up hot meals prepared by The Salvation in Battle Creek. They fed hundreds of meals to first responders, relief groups, and volunteers who are still working to clear debris, restore services, and assess damage. Another canteen from Benton Harbor was also stationed in Union City near a local grocery store to feed additional volunteers and first responders. 

In addition to feeding operations, The Salvation Army also provided canteen support and emotional & spiritual care services at several Multi-Agency Resource Centers to assist residents as they connect with recovery resources and partner agencies. “Initially, the Union City community was doing the best they could to take care of themselves,” said Sturgis corps officer Major Tim Sell. “As people start moving past their immediate needs, and reflecting on the gravity of what they’ve lost, we will be there to meet them.”

As communities continue to transition to long-term recovery efforts, survivors should contact their local Salvation Army to enquire about programs that may be available to help including possible rental or food pantry assistance.