Oak Creek Salvation Army Accepting Donations For Afghan Evacuees

OAK CREEK, WI — As Fort McCoy continues to grapple with the influx of people evacuated from Afghanistan following the U.S. total withdrawal of troops, the Oak Creek Salvation Army is hoping for donations of the items refugees need.

Fort McCoy in Wisconsin is one of the three main U.S. military bases that has been taking in refugees from Afghanistan. Over 1000 soldiers are at the base to assist with the refugees and many of them need medical care.

Over 8000 refugees have arrived so far. Donations are already pouring in, a report from Wisconsin State Journal shows, however, more is needed.

A news release from the Wisconsin and Upper Michigan chapter of the Salvation Army outlined how people can help the evacuees with new in-kind donations such as clothing, supplies and more.

The Salvation Army is one of many organizations undertaking the effort and has set up donation stations at a host of Milwaukee area locations, including the one in Oak Creek, the news release said.

“Many of these individuals came to Wisconsin with nothing but the clothes on their back,” said Benny Benedict, Emergency Disaster Services Director for The Salvation Army of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. “So taking care of them is a top priority.”

Governor Tony Ever's last week also asked residents to step up if they are able to donate to the refugees.

Items such as unbranded clothing, diapers, feminine hygiene pads (no tampons), swaddles, baby formula, phone chargers, Quarans, reusable plastic water bottles, underwear, masks, toiletries and many more materials are needed for the refugees.

View a full list of what is needed here.

Donations can be dropped off at the Oak Creek Salvation Army, 8853 Howell Avenue 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.