The Salvation Army Receives Donation of Radio Equipment to Support Disaster Services

Long-Serving Volunteer Quentin Nelson Donates Equipment to Ensure Continued Use in Times of Need

Cincinnati, OH (April 27, 2016) – The Salvation Army today announced that it received a donation of amateur “ham” radio equipment used in support of communications during emergencies and disaster scenarios.  Mr. Quentin Nelson of Cincinnati donated the equipment to ensure its continued use, after volunteering for more than 40 years as part of the Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN).  The SATERN communications system is an important component of The Salvation Army’s ability to provide support and services during times of disaster on a worldwide basis.

“The impact of this donation will continue to reach those facing crisis and disaster worldwide,” explained Major Robert Klenk, The Salvation Army’s Coordinator of Disaster Services in Greater Cincinnati.  “Through Quent’s gift, The Salvation Army’s Amateur Radio Network will continue to meet human needs in times of crisis.”  In his service on the SATERN team, for many years Mr. Nelson coordinated the “Health and Welfare” network during disasters, connecting family removed from the disaster with those deeply impacted.  His work in meeting the needs of others has taken him throughout the Americas and the world, being recognized with the prestigious “Others” award, among The Salvation Army’s highest honors, for his work with the Mexico City earthquake in 1985.

“What a wonderful gesture of kindness at the end of a truly dedicated career of service,” stated Michael Orfitelli, Disaster Services Coordinator for The Salvation Army Eastern Territory.  “We are sorry to learn that Mr. Nelson will no longer be volunteering with the SATERN program, but are deeply grateful for his generous contribution that will ensure that this important communications capability remains in Greater Cincinnati.”

Each day, worldwide, The Salvation Army provides services, resources and spiritual support to those facing both human and natural disasters.  In the local community, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) staff and volunteers provide greatly-needed food and hydration support to first-responders during emergencies.  As well, the organization is equipped to respond immediately, as needed, for any natural or human disaster in the local community, the region or anywhere that need may dictate.  To learn more about The Salvation Army’s EDS capabilities and services, please visit us online at www.salvationarmycincinnati.org.  Donations to support The Salvation Army’s EDS services can be made via the web site, or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY.

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About The Salvation Army:

The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination since 1865. Nearly 33 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. Nationally, about 82 cents of every dollar raised is used to support those services in nearly 9,000 communities nationwide. For more information, please visit www.salvationarmycincinnati.org.