The Salvation Army's Canadian Team Returns from Haiti

TORONTO , Jan. 22 /CNW/ - The Salvation Army's Canadian Assessment Team returned from Haiti in the early hours of Friday January 22nd . The three-man team, consisting of Brian Burditt , Director of World Missions, Major Rick Shirran, Territorial Disaster Services Director and Jeremy Watt , Web Producer/Photographer returned safely to Toronto via Fort Lauderdale , Florida.

While on the ground in Port-au-Prince , the team assisted with the relief effort and completed their initial assessment to prepare for long-term aid and redevelopment. The Salvation Army in Canada will also play a role in the establishment of several supply lines for regular shipments of food, water, medical supplies and other goods as needed.

"The Salvation Army continues to provide immediate aid and relief," said Brian Burditt , Director of World Missions. "However, initial plans and assessments are underway to assist with the rebuilding and long-term development of this proud country."

The Salvation Army has had a presence in Haiti since 1950 and its personnel who were affected by the earthquake are now working to assist others in need. The Salvation Army in Haiti operates three medical facilities, schools that serve at least 10,000 children, feeding programs, children's homes and church-related activities.

Please support The Salvation Army's relief effort in Haiti . Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca, or by texting HAITI to 45678 for most carriers in Canada , including Rogers Wireless, Bell Mobility, Telus and Virgin Mobile to make $5 donation. You can also give by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda , 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto , Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.

When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.

News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca.

For further information: Andrew Burditt, Territorial Public Relations Director, The Salvation Army, [phone], [email protected]