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Wellington, New Zealand (October 1, 2009) - Survivors of the tsunami that struck parts of Samoa and American Samoa on Wednesday, September 30, are receiving disaster relief assistance from The Salvation Army.
At the request of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Salvation Army personnel have joined the government in service at Auckland International Airport to provide counseling, material comforts and other practical support for people entering from the islands since Wednesday afternoon.
The Salvation Army in New Zealand is also readying a team to provide assistance within Samoa and American Samoa as soon as safe transport is possible. Once on the ground, the team will evaluate the level of aid needed.
The Salvation Army's leader in New Zealand, Commissioner Don Bell, says, "Our compassion is strong for the many that have lost their loved ones and homes in the tsunami and whose sense of security is shattered. The Salvation Army wants to reach out to them in tangible ways to bring relief and practical assistance."
The Salvation Army is continuing to work out its response to this disaster in close cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other responding agencies.
To assist The Salvation Army's ongoing disaster relief efforts in Samoa, donations marked for "Western Samoa Relief Appeal" may be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY, online or by sending a check to your local Salvation Army.
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