PRESS RELEASE
Salvation Army Provides Training to
Local Relief Workers in Myanmar
May 28, 2008 - Plans for long-term relief in Myanmar are in the works as The Salvation Army continues to meet immediate needs of residents attempting to recover from the deadly cyclone that reeked havoc on the nation earlier this month. Currently, The Salvation Army is distributing four-day food ration packs and clothing and providing tarpaulins for shelter.
“Our local personnel have been able to travel south of Yangon and into the impacted areas. The suspicions surrounding incoming relief workers has been well publicized, so as our teams move into areas where The Salvation Army has no existing presence they are having to be careful with how they operate,” said Commissioner David Bringans, who oversees The Salvation Army’s work in Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar.
After arriving in Myanmar Major Mike Caffull, member of The Salvation Army’s international emergency disaster services team, met with Salvation Army leaders to be updated on the organization’s efforts. During the briefing the need to train local relief team members in conducting assessments and shaping plans for the next phase of relief became evident.
In response, Major Caffull trained 50 local relief team members who are using their new skills to assess how The Salvation Army can continue to be of help, including clarifying the availability of in-country supplies and the viability of obtaining goods being shipped from abroad.
“We give thanks for Major Caffull’s safe arrival and the positive spirit he has encountered among the local relief personnel,” said Major Cedric Hills, Salvation Army international emergency disaster services coordinator. “The next few days will be significant as the team expands its assessment.”
Click below to make an online donation. Indicate that you would like your donation to assist the survivors of the Myanmar cyclone.
Checks earmarked “Myanmar Cyclone,” can be sent to
The Salvation Army International Disaster Relief Fund
PO Box 630728
Baltimore, MD 21263-0728
To volunteer with The Salvation Army or to make a credit card donation, call 651-746-3400 or 1-800-SAL-ARMY.
