CNMI Salvation Army distributed more than 15,000 meals after the storm

After weeks of dedicated service in the wake of Typhoon Sinlaku, the CNMI Salvation Army officially concluded its mass feeding program on May 9 at the Garapan Fishing Base, having distributed approximately 15,000 meals to residents in need.

​The distribution effort began on April 20, operating Monday through Saturday from 12:30 p.m. until daily food supplies were exhausted. On its final day of the mass distribution, the organization handed out 600 meals consisting of soup, chips, and juice.

​While the daily mass feeding at the Fishing Base has ended, the Salvation Army’s mission in the Marianas is far from over. According to Pastor Wayne Gillespie, the organization is pivoting its strategy to focus on targeted future outreach programs.

​"It's our last day of mass feeding; we will continue our work in a different form. We will be mainly doing village outreaches," said Gillespie.

When asked whether the future village outreaches would utilize a house-to-house or drive-through model, Gillespie noted that the logistics are still being finalized. The organization plans to announce specific details on their official Facebook page once the new framework is established.

For many residents still trying to recover from the devastation left by Typhoon Sinlaku, the end of the daily mass feeding brings a wave of uncertainty. Several individuals who lined up on the final day expressed both deep gratitude and concern for the future.

​Analiza Acuyong, 48, was lining up for her second time and was surprised to learn it was the final day, as her lack of internet access kept her disconnected from social media announcements.

Acuyong expressed sadness over the closure, noting the meals were a vital lifeline. She is currently unemployed, her husband works only part-time, and she requires ongoing maintenance medication for diabetes.

​Boyet, 62, echoed the sentiment of many still struggling on the island.

​"I feel bad, because a lot of people still need that assistance," he shared.


​Dong opted to walk up rather than wait in the drive-through line so his children—including a son on the autism spectrum—wouldn't have to stay confined in the car.

The meals were especially crucial for his family; their kitchen was severely damaged by the typhoon, making cooking impossible, and his wife is currently the sole breadwinner while he cares for their children.

​Edwin, 58, had been a daily walk-in at the distribution site since day one. He expressed profound gratitude to Pastor Gillespie and the Salvation Army volunteers, noting their willingness to serve walk-ins just as readily as those in vehicles. While thankful, he hopes the assistance will eventually resume, emphasizing that the island has not yet fully recovered from the typhoon's impact.