February 27, 2010 - Following a devastating 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Chile early this morning, The Salvation Army immediately went into action to provide support and comfort for the survivors.

Lt. Colonel F. Bradford Bailey of The Salvation Army in South America West says that the immediate response is to provide food, water, first-aid kits, emergency packets, blankets, candles and other urgently required supplies. A disaster services vehicle and mobile kitchenette that was just recently donated from The Salvation Army USA Southern Territory is now providing critical assistance to distribute services to those in need.

The earthquake's epicenter was approximately 90 miles northwest of the city of Concepción in Southern Chile and approximately 350 miles from the capital of Santiago, According to Lt. Colonel Bailey, people have flocked to the streets as "numerous aftershocks continue to pummel" the country, severely affecting older buildings in the more historical areas of the larger cities.

Water, gas and electricity have been cut off in affected areas and will remain disconnected until emergency crews can assess the damage and prioritize immediate needs. Communication is presently very difficult within the country as mobile and land-line phone services have been disrupted.

The Salvation Army asks that the public will join them in prayer for the people of Chile at this critical time. Just as in Haiti, which was also devastated by an earthquake earlier this year, The Salvation Army is a constant presence in this country and will remain serving the needs of the Chilean people as they recover from this disaster.

How to Donate:

The Salvation Army set up a Chile Relief Fund and is accepting monetary donations. Donors may contribute $10 via their cell phone bill by text messaging the word "CHILE" to 52000, and confirming the donation with the word, "Yes." Donors can also give via our secure online donations page, by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY, or sending a check or money order to: The Salvation Army Chile Earthquake Relief, 701 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123. (*Please note that your donation is for Chile Earthquake Relief*).