The Salvation Army
Media Release

Salvation Army calls for donations to help flood victims recovery

Wellington, 16 July 2007 - The Salvation Army is asking the public to donate money to help with the recovery of flood victims in the Far North.

Salvation Army Public Relations Secretary Major David Bennett says that it could be up to six months before Far North flood victims are able to fully recover.

'People were running on adrenaline during the emergency, but some of them are now starting to collapse from the effects of exhaustion and stress. Others are just now popping up that were not aware what help was available,' he says.

'In addition, some people are still recovering from the March floods. Last week's flooding was much worse so we'd expect the recovery phase to take up to six months.

'The flooding is over for now, but the disaster recovery work is seriously stretching our resources. We are calling for donations to help us continue to provide ongoing care and support to flood victims in the months ahead.

'People require help not only with things like the replacement of furniture, household goods and clothing, but also with their emotional needs as they try to come to grips with the devastation.'

People can make a donation by calling toll-free 0800-530-000 or via www.salvationarmy.org.nz Donors should indicate that their donation is for the "Far North Relief".

Major Bennett says that Salvation Army staff and volunteers stepped in quickly last week to meet the immediate needs of displaced people such as for food and shelter via welfare centres in Kaitaia, Kawakawa, and Whangarei.

ENDS

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