Dear Metro Youth,

I am sure all you are aware that the NATO Summit is coming to Chicago next weekend. Many of you are aware of the fact that The Salvation Army has been asked to support our first responders (police, firefighters, etc) by providing hydration and food support throughout the event. With that being said, The Salvation Army’s Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) branch is in desperate need of volunteers to do just that. There are two specific ways that you can help.

1. Meal Preparation On The Field
We are very pleased that the Southern Territory’s Florida Division will be providing a fully maned 53′ field kitchen to support the preparation of the hot meals. The Army will be manning eight canteens in addition to several field locations in Chicago. We still have need for volunteers to support our field operations in the City Friday through Sunday.

2. Lunch Packing at EDS
In addition, at the Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) facility in Elk Grove Village, the Army will be producing 700 bag lunches on Thursday. However, on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday the Army will be producing 6,000 bag lunches each day. At present, EDS has enough volunteers for Thursday’s production schedule, however, they are in desperate need for volunteers Friday through Sunday.

As of this morning, EDS has 19 volunteers for Friday, May 18th, 10 volunteers for Saturday, May 20th, and 10 volunteers for Sunday, May 21st. They need a minimum of 40 volunteers each day for at least a four hour shift to meet our bag lunch production schedule at EDS (a daily shift schedule has been posted below). Whether you choose to serve by yourself or gather friends or family, you can play an important part in preparing meals for our public servants during the NATO Summit. If you are able to volunteer, or if you have any questions, please contact Paula Sullivan on her cell phone (847-489-8654) or email ([email protected]). You must be 17 years old or older to volunteer.

In order to volunteer in field operations you will need to have cleared a background check. No background check is necessary to participate in the bag lunch project.

Finally, The Salvation Army has been given a unique ministry opportunity of caring for our first responders during the NATO Summit. In addition to promoting volunteer participation, please join with me in prayer support that God would use this time of ministry for His purpose. Thank you.

Daily Shift Schedule
8:00am to 12:00pm
12:00pm to 4:00pm
4:00pm to 8:00pm