The Salvation Army's team of emergency response volunteers is well known for supporting people and communities in times of crisis.

In recent years, the south east team have attended major incidents such as the crash on the Isle of Sheppey Bridge and the Yalding Floods as well as providing regular support for Search and Rescue Teams looking for missing persons.

During the pandemic, the emergency response team has travelled throughout Kent and Sussex visiting NHS sites taking along much needed refreshments for health workers.  Last summer, they served over 10,000 bacon rolls to NHS key workers! 

In December, the team took meals to stranded lorry drivers stuck on the M20 motorway.

Over the past month, despite the snow, they have also dropped off refreshments at NHS sites and supplied vaccination centres with drinks and snacks for healthcare staff and volunteers.

Through rain or shine, The Salvation Army's fleet of specially designed iconic red catering vans have been used for decades to respond to emergency incidents and to support those in need and the pandemic response is just the latest way they have been able to help.

Rob Saunders, South East Division Emergency Response Co-ordinator said: “The Salvation Army's emergency response teams are well known for supporting people in times of hardship and are often called on by the emergency services to provide food, drink and support at large incidents. Our amazing volunteers are always pleased to roll up their sleeves to provide support where it is needed.”