Commemorating Resilience: The Salvation Army Marks 20 Years Since Hurricane Katrina

Commemorating Two Decades Since Hurricane Katrina

As the nation approaches the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina on August 29, 2025, The Salvation Army takes a moment to reflect on the profound impacts of this historic disaster, shaped by chaos, resilience, and a commitment to service. The hurricane struck as a category 3 storm, unleashing devastating winds and storm surges that inundated 80% of New Orleans, ultimately leading to around 1,800 fatalities and over $200 billion in damages. Katrina remains one of the deadliest and costliest natural disasters in American history.

After Katrina made landfall, The Salvation Army launched its most extensive nationwide relief effort to date. With tireless dedication, the organization provided over 4.7 million hot meals, 6.8 million sandwiches and snacks, and emotional support to nearly 103,000 people affected by the storm. This effort included 178 mobile feeding units and 11 field kitchens, all staffed by dedicated volunteers who also invested their time in locating over 25,000 survivors. Additionally, thousands of disaster volunteers were housed throughout the Gulf Coast in Salvation Army facilities, providing a total of 56,000 nights of accommodation. The organization was among the first responders on the ground and continued its service long after other agencies departed.

In these chaotic moments, the crisis became intensely personal for many involved. Captain David Brittle, a Salvation Army officer, had to evacuate with his family while his parents chose to stay in New Orleans. At the Salvation Army's Hope Center, he helped shelter over 300 people as floodwaters rose. Upon returning to join rescue efforts, he navigated inundated streets for days and coordinated helicopter evacuations. This harrowing experience reinforced his commitment to serving during times of crisis. The powerful story of Captain Brittle is a testament to the personal sacrifices many volunteers made during this crisis.

For survivors like Lieutenant Macy Gantner, Hurricane Katrina marked a life-altering moment. At only 12 years old, Macy was evacuated from her home in St. Bernard Parish due to the flooding. She encountered The Salvation Army for the first time in Minnesota, where she received essential items like food and shelter, along with comforting prayers. Inspired by this support, she dedicated her life to helping others facing similar disasters.

These personal stories highlight how Katrina reshaped The Salvation Army’s mission to meet survivors where they are, providing ongoing support long after media coverage fades. Lessons from this disaster have influenced the organization's strategies today. The Salvation Army now deploys mobile feeding units, integrates trauma-informed care, builds culturally responsive partnerships, and commits to long-term recovery programs.

As Meghan Foley, director of Emergency Disaster Services for The Salvation Army, emphasizes: "While we remember the despair of Katrina, we also recognize the courage and compassion that emerged. Recovery is a lengthy process, and through The Salvation Army's continued service, we want survivors to know they have not been forgotten."

The 20th anniversary is set to be commemorated across the nation with events solidifying The Salvation Army’s ongoing role in service to those affected by Katrina. This includes a local cleanup and service day in New Orleans, a prayer service in honor of Captain Brittle’s family, and active participation in broader community gatherings reflecting on the storm's legacy. nationally, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution recognizing both Katrina's devastation and the ongoing recovery efforts along the Gulf Coast.

Two decades later, Hurricane Katrina stands not only as a pivotal historical event but also as a catalyst that has transformed how The Salvation Army services are delivered and how it supports communities in distress. As we remember those we lost alongside those who survived, we reaffirm our mission to serve with compassion, adapt with purpose, and ensure that no one is left behind. For more insights into survivor stories and the current response efforts, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org.

The Salvation Army is dedicated to supporting over 27 million individuals in the U.S. each year, assisting them in overcoming poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through various social services, including emergency disaster relief. With locations operating nationwide, every designated donation towards disaster response ensures immediate and long-term support. For more information, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org and follow on social media @SalvationArmyUS using #DoingTheMostGood.