The Salvation Army Expanding Relief Effort Throughout Columbiana County
Columbiana County OH March 1st 2023- As the massive clean up effort continues following the 50 car train derailment in East Palestine, OH on February 3rd 2023, The Salvation Army has now expanded the relief effort to areas throughout Columbiana County The Salvation Army continues providing food, spiritual care, and other assistance to families impacted by this event.
“It has been close to a month since the derailment, and the needs in the East Palestine community are greater than ever. Residents are concerned about the safety of being in their homes. Fears around tainted water supplies have created concerns about using the water for drinking and bathing. We are here 24-7 to provide water and cleaning supplies and to be a listening ear of support. The Salvation Army will not just be here to help residents through this disaster. We are part of this community and will always be here to help our neighbors in need,” stated Captain Gene Spence, Commanding Corps Officer at The Salvation Army in Salem. "The outpouring of support from the people in Ohio and across the Nation has been inspiring. This incredible outpouring of support shows us that East Palestine is loved and will be supported through this long-term recovery effort,” continued Captain Spence.
The Salvation Army in East Liverpool is now coordinating relief operations in southern Columbiana County. Residents in need of aid can contact The Salvation Army Corps Community Center, located at 413 East 4th Street, East Liverpool, OH 43920, by calling (330) 385-2086.
“We are now starting to see the expansive and long-term effect of the derailment. East Liverpool, Wellsville, and Calcutta residents fear that recent rain has spread the contaminants to local water supplies. As a result, our Corps will offer daily water case distributions to serve residents in these affected areas. In less than two weeks, we have distributed over 500 cases of water and expect to see this number continue to increase over the upcoming weeks,” said Major Stephanie Larrick, Commanding Corps Officer at The Salvation Army in East Liverpool.
Since the train derailment, The Salvation Army has been onsite providing care to East Palestine residents & first responders:
- 192 Meals Served provided to residents & first responders.
- 393 Drinks were provided to residents & first responders.
- 679 Snacks were provided to residents & first responders.
- 2,054 Clean-up kits distributed to residents.
- 7,413 Cleaning Supplies distributed to residents.
- 126 Hygiene Kits distributed to residents.
- 161 Articles of Clothing were provided to residents.
- Over 6,900 people served.
- Over 7,300 Households helped.
- Transported five individuals from the Shelter back to their Homes.
- 91 Emotional and Spiritual Care Support Contacts Provided
- 11,796 cases of Water distributed to residents
If you would like to make a donation to help support the East Palestine community, please call (216) 623-7449.