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The Salvation Army will be distributing holiday gift cards for Carter County residents affected by Hurricane Helene on Sunday, Dec. 22, in the gym at Hampton Elementary School, 408 US-321 Scenic, Hampton, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. or until cards run out.

Residents seeking assistance should be prepared to provide a form of identification and a means of verifying residence in Carter County and the number of individuals in their households. It will be required to provide a signature for the gift cards, which can be redeemed at Walmart.

Only Carter residents will be able to receive gift cards at the Carter distribution.

Assistance will be provided on a first come, first served basis. Kind and considerate behavior will be expected from all, including while waiting for a turn to have documents processed.

“We are very grateful that The Salvation Army was able to raise funds nationwide to provide relief for families and individuals affected by Hurricane Helene this holiday season,” Major Maureen Diffley, corps officer, stated. “Even as many of our neighbors have unexpected costs and challenges related to the storm and recovery from the damage, we are relieved to provide some bonus support at this special time of year and appreciate the support of the county and Hampton Elementary to facilitate this assistance.”

The Salvation Army in Johnson City provides over 17,000 nights of stay to shelter guests each year, serving them over 51,000 meals and 17,000 snacks, providing clothing and bedding as needed, and laundry facilities. Guests receive case management or coaching during their stay to promote finding a sustainable, independent housing plan upon exit. A variety of social, educational and recreational activities are included.

During the winter months, The Salvation Army provides inclement cold weather shelter for up to 25 additional individuals as part of the White Flag program. A robust relationship with community partners helps to ensure that any overflow registered at The Salvation Army can be sheltered at a partner location for the night.

The Salvation Army provides food boxes and assistance with utilities and rent as available to our neighbors in need year-round. The Salvation Army also completed its Angel Tree gift assistance for families at the holidays.

To receive Hurricane Helene Holiday Gift card, please bring:

–  Form of ID

–  Verification of address in the county of distribution (ID, mail, etc.)

–  Verification of additional household members (mail, birth certificates, custody papers, etc.)

–  Explanation of hurricane impact (i.e. loss of days of work, home, property, increased family care, etc.)