By Lori Baker, American Red Cross Communications Volunteer
After catastrophic flooding hit Ruidoso, New Mexico in July, hundreds of people were displaced from their homes and sought temporary housing from the American Red Cross.
Ten Red Cross emergency shelters were set up. There were 787 total households served, including 294 homes that were destroyed or suffered major damage.
Through a partnership of the Red Cross and The Salvation Army, hot and cold lunches and dinners were prepared and delivered to flood survivors in local motels.
“The Salvation Army is a vital partner in supporting individuals and families affected by disaster,” said Edgar Olivo, Red Cross Arizona and New Mexico Chief Executive Officer.
With the help of partners, the Red Cross provided nearly 80,000 meals and snacks were provided to those who were affected by the devastating flooding. About 22,000 Salvation Army services were provided to individuals, including meals, disaster supplies, financial assistance, and emotional and spiritual care.
About 200 volunteers, including local residents, helped the Red Cross and The Salvation Army provide care and compassion. The Red Cross had 129 disaster workers helping flood victims. The Salvation Army had 15 employees and 10 officers responding to Ruidoso as well.
For the first few weeks, The Salvation Army staff and volunteers cooked in a mobile canteen then moved to the Episcopal Church in Lincoln County. They partnered with local restaurants like Island Noodles and K-Bob’s Steakhouse to serve a variety of food and support local businesses.
The Red Cross paid for the food at cost and for lodging for flood victims. The Salvation Army absorbed the cost of personnel, running the canteen, lodging and feeding its crews.
“The support that The Salvation Army and Red Cross were able to provide together was essential in ensuring the Ruidoso community received the care they needed during and after the floods,” said Hannah Eisenberg, director of Emergency Disaster Services for The Salvation Army Southwest Division.
“The response was made possible through the dedication of our volunteers, partners and supporters, to whom we extend our sincere thanks,” she added.
Eisenberg said she appreciated the generous donations received by Walmart, UPS Foundation, Midwest Food Bank, Greater Good Charities and Albertson’s Markets to name a few.
The Ruidoso flooding response is an example of how the Red Cross and The Salvation Army frequently team up during disaster responses across the United States, as their missions and services often complement each other.
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