The nonprofit continues to work alongside other agencies to provide food, clothing and flood cleanup kits to impacted communities and those working to remediate the damages.

TIOGA COUNTY, Pa. (Aug. 21, 2024) — When the remnants of Hurricane Debby swept through Tioga and Potter Counties, Pennsylvania, residents and businesses found themselves overwhelmed by floodwaters and damage. The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) responded to these disasters immediately, providing hope and help to all in need.

To date, the organization has distributed 340 cleanup kits, complete with push brooms, squeegees, wet mops, leather palm working gloves, an N95 mask, liquid cleaners, and other items designed to help residents remediate flood damages in their homes.

Regarding food, The Salvation Army’s EDS team has served 1,968 meals to flood survivors, first responders, and State Incident Management Team members. The staff and volunteers have been delivering meals directly to community members’ doors in addition to deploying two Canteen trucks which serve meals at stationary locations in Westfield and Harrison Valley. The EDS support will continue as long as the community displays a need.

Aside from food support, The Salvation Army has provided 266 incidences of emotional and spiritual care, offering a hug, prayer and a listening ear to folks navigating these traumatic events. Volunteers stand ready with blankets, pillows, drinks and other refreshments to make the community more comfortable.

“We’re just here to help,” said Erik Johnson, The Salvation Army’s EDS Incident Commander. “The folks who live in this area have enough going on without having to worry about their next meal or how they’re going to clean their homes.”

As the need for services subsides, The Salvation Army will update their support to food boxes and other supplies meant to support community members as they get back on their feet following the disaster. 

How to Help

Local community members are invited to drop off donations to the Westfield Fire Hall. While donations are being accepted in Westfield, items are being distributed to residents across the impacted counties by Tioga County Emergency Services. Items needed include the following: trash cans, totes, fans, tarps, push brooms, toilet paper, paper towels, new towels, new bedsheets, gift cards and rubber boots.

Those who do not live locally can support The Salvation Army’s ongoing response to Hurricane Debby and other disasters by donating online at https://salarmy.us/TropicalStormDebby. Contributions will help provide essential supplies, meals and other forms of assistance to those in need as they work to rebuild their lives.