New Salvation Army Disaster Services Vehicle Rolled Out in Philadelphia, Thanks to FedEx
When disaster strikes, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) teams are among the first to arrive on the scene and often the last to leave, serving survivors and first responders. From emergency meals and shelter to emotional and spiritual care, EDS provides a helping hand when it’s needed most.
Thanks to the generosity of FedEx, The Salvation Army Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division added a new EDS vehicle, also known as a canteen, to its fleet, expanding The Salvation Army’s ability to respond faster and serve even more people in their time of need. This month, The Salvation Army, FedEx, and Philadelphia first responders welcomed the new disaster services vehicle with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Divisional Headquarters. Local officials including Shakeda Gaines, chief of staff to Councilmember Kendra Brooks, Kevyn Brooks, special assistant to Councilmember Kendra Brooks, and State Rep. Tarik Khan were also in attendance.
“We're excited to see our work together continue to grow,” remarked Brian Krejci, District Sales Manager, FedEx. “This Mobile Canteen embodies the spirit of our FedEx Cares Delivering for Good program. For us, it's about more than delivering packages; it's about delivering hope, compassion, and practical assistance.”
The new vehicle was the 26th donation from FedEx to Salvation Army units across the U.S. and around the world since 2006.
Equipped with ovens, refrigerators, power and water, The Salvation Army’s canteens enable EDS teams to serve thousands of meals and beverages during crisis situations.
“The Salvation Army responded to more than 4,300 disaster events this year, providing critical relief to over 421,000 individuals nationwide,” said Greg Tuck, Assistant National Community Relations & Development Secretary for The Salvation Army. “The canteens donated by FedEx make this possible, allowing us to respond swiftly and serve as a lifeline to those facing the unthinkable.”
The past year alone has shown just how critical EDS support is across our Division.
When the remnants of Hurricane Debby swept through Tioga and Potter Counties, causing disastrous flooding, EDS canteens dispatched immediately to provide relief. The Division’s canteens also extended beyond our region, assisting with the disaster response in the South after the devastation of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. And most recently, when tragedy struck North Philadelphia with a plane crash, our canteen arrived within 30 minutes, ensuring first responders and those impacted had food, beverages, blankets, and other essentials.
"The Salvation Army is a trusted community resource, providing aid and comfort across Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware in times of disaster," said Lt. Colonel Larry Ashcraft, Divisional Commander of the Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware Division. "This generous gift from our friends at FedEx is more than just an expansion of our EDS fleet. It represents hope and support for our neighbors and first responders when they need it most."
To support The Salvation Army’s disaster relief efforts or learn how you can help, visit https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/help-disaster-survivors/#currentDisasters.