Salvation Army Donation Coordination Efforts Underway in Response to South Fork and Salt Fire
In response to the ongoing South Fork and Salt Fires, the Salvation Army has taken charge of coordinating donations from Points of Distribution (PODs) in and around Ruidoso. Lisa Arellano, serving as the South Fork Wildfire Planning Chief and Liaison at the Lincoln County Emergency Operations Center (EOC), provided an update on the current needs and donation management efforts.
The PODs are currently in urgent need of specific items to support affected residents and responders. These include:
Pet Food: Cat and dog food to support pets affected by the fires.
Hygiene Products: Such as shampoo, soap, and feminine hygiene products.
Canned Food and Pasta: Non-perishable food items to provide essential nutrition.
Baby Products: Including diapers of all sizes and baby food.
Adult Diapers: Required in all sizes to assist individuals with specific needs.
Local points of distribution and drop-off points for donations include:
Points of Distribution
First Baptist Church – 270 Country Club Drive, Ruidoso
River Crossing Ministries – 1950 Sudderth Drive, Ruidoso
First Christian Church – 1211 Hull Road, Ruidoso
Humane Society of Lincoln County – 25962 US-70, Ruidoso [ *Regrouping after US-70 flooding]
Drop-Off Points
Jack’s Backstage – 1056 Mechem, Ruidoso
Horton Gymnasium – 134 Reese Street, Ruidoso
Ms. Arellano emphasized that while there has been a generous outpouring of donations, there is currently an abundance of water and clothing. Therefore, the Salvation Army requests that no more of these items be dropped off at this time.
Efforts are also underway to maintain an updated list of active PODs where members of the public can contribute or receive assistance. For those interested in receiving regular updates on these locations, arrangements can be made through the Salvation Army's coordination team.
The Salvation Army and other relief agencies continue to work tirelessly to meet the evolving needs of the community impacted by the South Fork and Salt Fires. Their efforts are vital in ensuring that resources are effectively distributed to those in need during this challenging time.
