Earthquake update, hope on wheels, first-time fresh water for Kenyan kids
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Salvation Army teams continue to expand their initial earthquake response efforts in Venezuela to help support communities impacted by affected by two powerful earthquakes that struck on 24 June.
The teams are delivering food, safe drinking water, hygiene kits, and other essential supplies to earthquake survivors, as well as supporting first responders with hot drinks and snacks as they work around the clock in some of the worst-hit areas.
A central coordination and operational base has now been established at a local church, where additional volunteers are arriving to help meet growing needs.
The desperate search for survivors continues as Venezuela marks one week since the devastating twin earthquakes.
More than 2200 people have died, with about 50,000 believed to be still missing.
The Salvation Army has been present in Venezuela since 1972. Venezuela is part of the Latin America North Territory.
Salvation Army workers assisting people impacted by the earthquakes.
Hope on wheels in Ukraine
For many years, The Salvation Army in Ukraine has been working on and waiting for this moment – the arrival of a brand-new emergency response vehicle, complete with a built-in kitchen.
“This isn’t just a van. It’s hope on wheels,” said Ukraine divisional leaders Majors Irina and Konstantyn Shvab.
“With this vehicle, our teams can now reach people in crisis faster than ever – cooking hot meals and serving hot drinks right on the spot, wherever they are needed most. Whether responding to emergencies, supporting displaced families, or reaching communities affected by the war, this van means comfort and nourishment can arrive exactly when and where it’s needed.
“We’ve dreamed of this for so long. Today, that dream is real.
“Thank you to everyone who made this possible – your support, prayers, and generosity are the reason we can keep serving with love in action – ‘Heart to God, Hand to Man’.”
Driving development for children in Kenya
When the WASH (Water Sanitation and Hygiene): Food Security and Resilience Program began in Kenya – funded by The Salvation Army Australia and implemented though our partner The Salvation Army Kenya East Territory, the local school children lacked access to clean drinking water, and the learning environment was poor.
Through the program, the community learned that improving water access required structural upgrades. Empowered with new advocacy skills introduced by the program, the community organised themselves and approached their Member of Parliament to request support. Their collective voice and efforts succeeded: five classrooms were renovated with new roofs and iron sheets, walls were painted and floors tiled, creating a safe and functional environment for the students.
These upgrades unlocked the full potential of the WASH program. Rainwater harvesting systems were installed, giving students access to clean drinking water for the first time. The impact has been transformative: improved health, reduced absenteeism and renewed confidence in local leadership.
Parents and teachers report a stronger sense of ownership and pride, and the community now sees advocacy as a powerful tool for driving development.
For more information on The Salvation Army International Development Australia, check out their Facebook page here.
