The Salvation Army Gene Eppley Camp north of Plattsmouth, received extensive damage forcing the postponement of camp activities for 175 youth, following a massive storm that struck the region Friday evening. Camp administrator, Major Lee Ann Thompson, set a goal of reopening by Saturday, June 24, but said The Salvation Army will need the public’s assistance to meet this date.
“Our young campers look forward to their experiences here at camp all year long, so we have an obligation to rebuild our facility as quickly as possible,” she said. “We lost camp equipment, our weekly food supply and dozens of other items. We praise God that nobody was injured, particularly since more than 175 youth were scheduled to arrive on Saturday.”
Spokesperson Susan Eustice says they have cleaned up a majority of the downed trees but they are in need of volunteers to step up to the plate and help clean up the campground. There is a lot of light tree debris that needs to be cleared so mowers can get through the area before the start of camp.
Eustice says, "It is odd that the Salvation Army finds itself a victim of its own disaster. That is a new one for us."
The Salvation Army is requesting the following:
Cash contributions for storm cleanup and other expenses not covered by insurance
Cash for immediate food needs (Cannot accept donations due to USDA regulations)
Cash for outdoor furniture (Immediate need for campers)
Bottled Water
Outdoor Games (Immediate need for campers)
Tree Replacement (Dozens of trees were lost)
Four Wheeler/Gator for nurse’s emergency vehicle (Loaner until replacement is purchased would be accepted)
Extra-large golf cart for physically disabled (Loaner until replacement is purchased would be accepted)
Monetary donations can be mailed or dropped off at The Salvation Army, 10755 Burt Circle, Omaha NE, 68114, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Online donations can be made by clicking here. Checks can be made out to the Gene Eppley Camp Disaster Fund. Donated items may be dropped off at The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services facility, 10629 Burt Circle, Omaha, NE 68114, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If donated items exceed the need, they will be taken to The Salvation Army Thrift Stores. Proceeds will support The Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Center.