The Salvation Army Responds to Brazil Floods with Help from FedEx
With incoming funding from FedEx, The Salvation Army mobilizes relief efforts after flooding in Brazil
The southern region of Brazil has declared a state of emergency due to torrential rains and flooding which have affected more than half a million people. 130 fatalities have been reported in the state of Rio Grande do Sul with the numbers expected to rise. More than 100,000 people have been displaced from their homes.
In the town of Santa Maria where the Salvation Army has several facilities, emergency disaster workers are responding to the needs of the people. Major Alessandra Nunes, Divisional Director for Women’s Ministries explains that the situation is dire. “There have been landslides in communities near us and many people have lost everything. Most of the access in and out of the town is blocked and people are panic- buying in supermarkets and stocking upon fuel.”
Thanks to a grant of $25,000 from FedEx, food and clean water, hygiene kits, cleaning supplies and clothing will be distributed to families affected by the floods. Salvation Army emergency volunteers have begun some distribution of needed supplies.
The Salvation Army has been working in the region for 90 years with eight corps, two outposts, one social institution for children and four thrift stores. The Army will be there to respond and assist the people long after the flood waters recede.