As one of the nation's major emergency relief organizations, The Salvation Army recognizes the critical importance of being prepared for natural and man-made disasters. Therefore, we work to educate other disaster professionals and the public at large about how to prepare for and respond to emergency situations, while also taking steps to ensure our own ability to respond quickly and efficiently. 

In major disasters, we can coordinate or assist with cleanup and reconstruction. We have troops of volunteers to enlist for large projects like this. We also provide hundreds of thousands of cleanup kits to disaster survivors annually, so they can get started on the road to recovery.

Our mobile kitchens travel the streets to provide hot meals to survivors and relief workers. We also set up meal stations near busy work sites or in community buildings where neighbors and volunteers can gather easily for support.

In major disasters, we set up hubs that provide shelter, meals and counseling, often working with other agencies. When the best option is a short-term hotel stay, we cover the bill.

We know it will not undo what has been lost, but we can offer financial help as a step toward a brighter future. We have short-term grants for medicine, groceries, and other pressing items. When the road back to normal is a bit longer, we partner with other agencies to provide long-term financial help. 

In the aftermath of a major disaster, The Salvation Army provides spiritual comfort and emotional care upon request to victims and emergency workers coping with the stress of a catastrophe. Salvation Army counselors, often our ordained pastors, offer a "ministry of presence" where they are available to provide support. Individuals can request prayer or guidance from the Bible. As is true with all Salvation Army Services, disaster relief and recovery services are provided to all in need without discrimination. You can help disaster survivors by becoming a chaplain.

Our emergency response services are activated on short notice, based on notification from federal, state, and local governments. Typically, Salvation Army personnel and resources will congregate at predetermined staging areas, entering the impacted area as soon as government first responders have indicated that it is safe and constructive to do so. These immediate response activities include food and hydration services, shelter, cleanup, and emergency communication assistance to put victims in touch with their loved ones.