FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, August 1, 2007

SALVATION ARMY RESPONDS FOLLOWING BRIDGE COLLAPSE IN MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

The Salvation Army is responding in Minneapolis, Minn., after a bridge collapsed hurling cars into the Mississippi River and killing at least three people. Salvation Army emergency disaster services personnel are bringing physical, emotional and spiritual aid to people at the scene.

Three Salvation Army emergency disaster services vehicles (canteens) along with more than a dozen emergency responders are on scene at the I-35W collapse. One vehicle is stationed on the University side stationed at 2nd ST SE and 8th Ave and another on the Washington side at 1201 West River Rd. The third unit is at the recovery area of 354 East River Prkwy.  The primary focus will be to provide food and water for emergency personnel on site as well as survivors who are on the scene and to provide for spiritual and emotional care.

According to Chrissie Morrison, Salvation Army Disaster Services Director in the Twin Cities, The Salvation Army is prepared to serve throughout the evening.  Each feeding unit has five to six volunteers/staff members serving.  The Salvation Army responds to calls for help from local law enforcement and becomes part of the Emergency Operation Center set up in times of disaster.  Salvation Army emergency staff and volunteers are trained both in food service and Critical Incident Stress Management.