Supporting communities affected by recent floods

The current flood crisis in Victoria, NSW and Tasmania has required local communities to band together, more now than ever. The devastating and sudden loss of a roof over one’s head, the rush to evacuate to safety and the stress caused by the unknown can have a lasting impact on individuals, families and businesses.

Whilst some are grateful to have people nearby to bear the load, others are feeling scared and alone. And this is where The Salvation Army is equipped to assist. According to Captain Ronald Stobie, located at the Echuca centre, the town has experienced a massive line of traffic to evacuate. This is not surprising, given that there are already measures in place to build a new levy to minimise the impact a flood can have.

Captain Stobie is seeing signs of stress and mental health, and reports, “For those with pre-existing mental health issues, this is exacerbating.” He is committed to supporting the team that is led by another Salvo, Sonia Edwards, to provide meals and refreshments to evacuees and first responders, along with items like bedding, toiletries and clothing to those in need. Currently, there are nine evacuation centres across flood-affected areas in Australia being supported by The Salvation Army.

Captain Stobie’s advice to those affected – “Just make sure you have someone to talk to. The Salvos are out and we’re here to chat. The big thing is not to hold it in. Chat it through as it is actually happening.”

This sentiment is echoed by Warren Elliott, Public Relations Secretary at The Salvation Army, who is supporting the Shepparton evacuation centre. Warren is part of a team of six, helping people in the community affected by the floods. In addition to material assistance, the team are also providing much-needed emotional support to help people move through each stage of their recovery journey. “We’re in the emergency phase and will be involved in recovery for months to come,” says Warren.

The aftermath of the floods will have a long-term impact on local communities, and The Salvation Army is here for the long haul – to help communities to recover and rebuild now, and well into the future.

As part of its assistance, The Salvation Army is releasing funds to assist with the flood recovery. For more information on how the funds are being used and learn how you can donate, please click here.

For the latest information on state-based assistance please click here.