Long-term Salvation Army recovery management proves crucial for Arkansas family

By: Cynthia Fuller

On December 10, 2021, a devastating storm crossed multiple states leaving a 100-mile path of destruction. The Salvation Army of Jonesboro, Arkansas responded immediately with food, hydration, and emotional and spiritual care.

Due to the generosity of donors, The Salvation Army had funding to provide long-term recovery case management services and assistance with unmet needs. Long-term recovery helps with individual unmet needs when personal resources, insurance, and government grants/loans are insufficient to meet the need. The Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team began providing case management to assist Verna, 86, with her recovery.

As the tornado crossed the City of Truman, Arkansas, Verna’s home was hit by the tornado. She and her adult, disabled son took shelter in the hallway. The two were found several hours later in the same spot by friends. The home suffered such major damage that they had to leave the home and move in with friends while repairs were completed. Although insurance covered most of the damaged repairs to the home, Verna still had a need for a new heating unit to warm the house. The old units were so severely damaged they were too dangerous to use.

Verna's unmet needs were assessed and presented at the Long-Term Recovery Meeting in October for funding assistance. Representatives from several agencies, including The Salvation Army, were in attendance and Verna's request for the new heating units was funded. Verna and her son were able to move back into their home before winter.

“I am 86 and have a 60 year-old disabled son,” Verna said. “Our house was hit by tornado in December 2021. We thought it would have to be torn down. I didn't have enough insurance to completely repair it. With the help of The Salvation Army, we now are living in our nice, safe home. It feels like a brand-new house to us.

“We are so thankful and grateful for all their help. I don't know where we would be today without them.”