Salvation Army Serving First Responders At Calgary Train Derailment

The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team is getting plenty of opportunity to be of service this year. On Wednesday, September 11, The Salvation Army in Calgary was called into action after a CP train carrying a flammable liquid used in oil pipelines derailed. Eight rail cars left the tracks and six flipped on their side. A natural gas line also ruptured during the incident.

“We started serving coffee and snacks yesterday and worked late into the night.” Says Lieut. Nyree Bond, Calgary Area Emergency Response Coordinator. “I went home for a few hours of sleep overnight and now we’re back serving breakfast. It is what we are called to do. We are here to make a difference, and to see the smiles of the fireman, police and other first responders after they receive a hot drink and something to eat is a real blessing.”

2013 has been a challenging year for Albertans who have seen their fair share of disasters. People living in southern Alberta are still struggling to come to terms with the damage and destruction caused by the great Alberta floods. In the midst of each disaster, The Salvation Army was there to lend a hand.

“Disasters or accidents, large and small, we’re often the first ones in, and the last ones out,” explains Captain Pam Goodyear, Divisional Secretary for Public Relations & Development for The Salvation Army. “It’s often dangerous and extremely stressful work for our first responders when they are dealing with a disaster, we are happy that we can offer a small measure of support. The Salvation Army cares for its community by supporting and serving our local heroes as they work hard to keep us all safe.”