MENA (April 13, 2009) - The Salvation Army continues to serve responders as well as storm survivors in Polk County. Since Friday evening, 3,443 meals have been served as well as numerous cups of coffee and cold drinks. Eleven volunteers and three employees who have been working on the mobile feeding units since Friday evening have worked 445 hours. These hours do not include the time put in by the Incident Command staff, who are responsible for coordinating the disaster relief efforts.
Although power is restored to a considerable portion of Mena, it is expected to be another week to ten days before power is restored to the entire community. Due to major damage to the middle school as well as minor damage to other schools, schools will remain closed on Monday. It is expected all grades will return to school on Wednesday with the exception of Sixth and Seventh grades.
The Army continues to work closely with County and City officials to help ensure the needs of the community and responders are met. Meal service is expected to continue through the end of the week. If power is restored sooner thane expected, then the County and City officials will revisit the need for assistance.