(CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON COUNTY – After the onslaught of severe weather on April 28, The Salvation Army of Huntsville and Madison County mobilized its efforts immediately.

On April 29, “the Decatur and Huntsville corps deployed to serve the affected areas in Limestone County,” volunteer and special events coordinator Lydia Pennington said. “We delivered hot meals and refreshments to the residents that suffered extensive damage.”

Workers for The Salvation Army served more than 550 meals and “will continue once again on April 30 to serve those in need of a meal, water, cleaning supplies … plus words of encouragement and ministerial support,” Pennington said.

The Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Alabama National Guard and local fire departments have set up a disaster relief command center at Blue Springs Elementary School at 16787 Hardy Road in Athens.

“The Salvation Army is most visible during immediate disaster relief, but we are also a long-term recovery agency,” Pennington said. “We stay connected to the families we serve, especially our most vulnerable neighbors who often spend the next decade trying to recover.”

“We know that disaster recovery isn’t over when the insurance checks come in,” Pennington said. “We’re here for the long haul, and we don’t put a deadline on serving those without a safety net.”

For residents who want to help storm victims, Pennington said the best and most helpful way is by monetary donations. Individuals can text STORM to 80888 to donate $10.

In addition, individuals can call 1-800-SAL-ARMY or visit donate.salvationarmyusa.org/uss/april2014 to donate to disaster relief efforts after these tornadoes.

“Thank you for your support as we help those in the greatest need during this time,” Pennington said.

For general information, call 256-536-5576, extension 14 or visit salvationarmyhuntsville.org.