The Salvation Army Responds to Central American Floods

THE Salvation Army in Central America is providing assistance to people affected by severe flooding. Heavy rains that started in October have caused more than 90 deaths in the region, with the worst problems in Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua. Official data shows that more than half a million people are affected, with at least 100,000 having left their homes in order to stay safe.

According to The Salvation Army's Latin America North Territory the damage to infrastructure and agriculture is massive, with pre-existing poverty in many of these areas making the situation even more difficult. Some communities have not been reached and there is a pressing need for food, shelter and clean water.

In Nicaragua, The Salvation Army is distributing food, clothes, mattresses and blankets to almost 700 people; in El Salvador around 1,000 people have been given food, hygiene articles and medicine. An outpost in Gualache, El Salvador, has become an emergency shelter for 150 displaced people.

Further emergency relief assistance will be provided where needed and as funds become available.