The Salvation Army of Las Vegas Responds with Emotional and Spiritual Care after Tragedy

The Las Vegas Salvation Army is providing food and hydration for those waiting in long lines to donate.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - The Salvation Army Southern Nevada is providing emotional and spiritual care to those affected by the tragic mass shooting in Las Vegas.

"Salvation Army Clark County Coordinator Major Randy Kinnamon has mobilized our Southern Nevada corps officers to area hospitals to offer emotional and spiritual care.

"Social Services Director Phillip Hollon is also working with local first responders to determine other ways in which we can help," said Lt. Col. Kelly Pontsler, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army's Southwest Division.

"We ask that everyone please pray for the families and friends of those who have lost their lives or were injured, as well as the first responders and Salvation Army officers and employees who are serving and ministering to the community."

The Salvation Army has officers on-site providing emotional and spiritual support at the two hospitals where the vast majority of victims are being treated: UMC Hospital, which was on lockdown early this afternoon, and Sunrise Hospital.

There are also Salvation Army officers at Spring Valley Hospital and St. Rose Hospital, where other victims are being treated.

Major Kinnamon reports that there is a tremendous need for life-saving blood donations, and people are encouraged to give at the Labor Health & Welfare Clinic, at 7135 W. Sahara, or any United Blood Services location: unitedbloodservices.org.

The immediate needs are for O-negative, O-positive and platelet donations. Donors of all types will be needed to replenish supply. All donations are on a walk-in basis at this time.

Already the local Las Vegas community has come forward in solidarity to support and honor those impacted by this senseless shooting. It’s the blood on the shelf that saves lives when tragedy strikes. Donations made today to replenish the supply will be available for hospital partners in 24 to 36 hours.

The Salvation Army has dispatched a mobile canteen to the United Blood Services location at 6930 W. Charleston Blvd. to provide food and hydration for those waiting in long lines to donate. Mobile canteens are also being considered at other strategic locations in the city.

Needs are also being evaluated at the Thomas and Mack Center, which has be opened up as a shelter.

Source: The Salvation Army Portland Metro