The Salvation Army of St. Louis Responds To Unrest In Ferguson, Missouri
The Salvation Army in St Louis is continuing its assistance and spiritual support in Ferguson, Missouri, following the shooting of unarmed 18-year-old Michael Brown by a local area police officer on August 9. Related to these efforts, The St. Louis County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) requested that The Salvation Army support the Missouri Highway Patrol (MHP) Command Center with donations management.
In addition, The Salvation Army is part of a multi-agency task force led by The United Way of Greater St. Louis and involving the St. Louis Area Foodbank, American Red Cross, Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis and Urban Sprouts Development Center along with organizations. Together the agencies are providing a Community Resource Drop-In Center to allow residents impacted by the events in Ferguson to get respite and receive a hot meal, food staples, personal care products, and for young ones the opportunity to participate in children’s activities. The center will be open daily from 10am until 2pm beginning today and Sunday from 11am until 2pm.
“The tragic events unfolding in Ferguson, Missouri have impacted us all deeply. As we move forward, we are asking God to give us wisdom to heal our community,” said Divisional Commander of the Midland Division Major Lonneal Richardson. “We offer our deepest sympathies to the family of Mr. Brown and to all who have been affected. We are joining with other human service organizations to offer much needed assistance and to provide spiritual support during these times of crises.”
During the Resource Drop-In Center’s first day of operation, The Salvation Army served 230 hot meals, 414 drinks and 420 healthful snacks to area residents.
Major Richardson and his staff will continue to participate with other community leaders in working together for the good of the community. Regional Officers interested in helping are directed to contact Major Aho, Divisional General Secretary, The Salvation Army – Midland Division.