The Salvation Army Aids Evacuees of San Francisco Chinatown Fire
San Francisco, CA (February 4, 2017): On Friday, February 3, The Salvation opened its doors at the San Francisco Chinatown Corps to administer a shelter in partnership with the American Red Cross for evacuees of the San Francisco Chinatown Fire at 1199 Stockton Street.
The Army and the Red Cross have worked together to assist the approximately 25 people affected by the two alarm fire. “Keeping this community close to its home is so important for their recovery to this incident”, stated John McKnight, Director for Emergency Disaster Services. “Once the call came in from the City’s Human Services Agency, we acted quickly to open our doors.” In all, Salvation Army volunteers have gone the extra mile offering comfort to survivors, most of whom are seniors who have gone through so much.
The Salvation Army will continue to provide shelter to the displaced residents until the City finds them their next place of residence. “Following the closure of the shelter, we will continue to support these folks as we know recovery will take time,” said McKnight.
About The Salvation Army: Since 1883, The Salvation Army has been serving the San Francisco Bay Area, offering practical support, spiritual comfort and a critical safety net to people in need. The Army has 16 facilities throughout San Francisco providing a myriad of services, including youth programs, meal delivery, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, transitional housing, and nutritional and housing support for seniors. In addition, the Army also provides disaster relief services. For more information on Salvation Army activities in San Francisco and the Bay Area, visit online at: www.sanfrancisco.salvationarmy.org
The Salvation Army Chinatown Corps, located in the heart of San Francisco’s Chinatown at 1450 Powell Street, has been serving the neighborhood for over 130 years, providing senior meal and activity programs; youth afterschool and tutoring programs; summer day camp for kids; a weekly food pantry; women’s fellowship groups; worship services and more.