Media Advisory: Mobile Wildfire Response Kitchens on Display at Get Ready in the Park

The Salvation Army's EDS Team Part of Emergency Preparedness Week (May 3-9)

EDMONTON, AB, May 5, 2026 /CNW/ - The Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) team is showcasing two fully equipped mobile kitchen units used in the Jasper and Fort McMurray wildfires at the Get Ready in the Park (GRIP) event on May 9. One vehicle can prepare up to 500 meals, and another can prepare an impressive 1,500 meals at a time.

The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services at Get Ready in the Park. (CNW Group/The Salvation Army Prairies and Northern Territories Division)

Salvation Army EDS Mobile Kitchen (CNW Group/The Salvation Army Prairies and Northern Territories Division)

"GRIP is a great way for the public to get a firsthand look at the equipment The Salvation Army uses on the scene of a disaster. We encourage people to walk through the mobile kitchens, examine the equipment, and ask questions about how we help in emergency responses," says Major Ben Lippers, Director of Emergency Disaster Services for the Prairies and Northern Territories Division.

Major Lippers and the mobile kitchen units will be available for interviews/photos:

Date:	Saturday, May 9,
Time:	1-2 p.m.
Where:	Edmonton EXPO grounds (7515- 118 Avenue NW)

Both vehicles contain a 16-gallon tilt skillet, double stack convention oven, four burner range, fridge, freezer, and more. These kitchens can prepare large quantities of meals that include breakfast burritos, French toast, sausages, chicken souvlaki, spaghetti, tacos and much more.

The Salvation Army's EDS team is one of the largest and most trusted disaster response teams in the world. In 2024, during a six-week Jasper operation, EDS served meals to evacuees, firefighters, RCMP officers, and other first responders involved in the wildfire response. In total, 10,871 meals, 11,593 drinks, and 15,416 snacks were served over a combined 2,868 hours worked by EDS team members.

This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Fort McMurray fires. EDS was present during the fires, providing meals and emotional and spiritual care for first responders. Staff and volunteers from the Salvation Army remained present as the city of Fort McMurray re-entered, when evacuees were given the go-ahead to return.

About the Salvation Army 

The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882. Today, it is the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country, offering hope and support to vulnerable people in 400 communities across Canada and in more than 130 countries around the world.

We believe in the transformative power of a helping hand--empowering people to move forward, no matter where they're starting from. With open doors, open minds, and open hearts, The Salvation Army provides practical, personalized support to those facing poverty, homelessness, addiction, food insecurity, and other complex challenges.

Our services include hunger relief through food banks and meal programs; shelter and housing support; addiction rehabilitation; long-term and palliative care; and life-skills development such as budgeting and cooking. We also offer children and youth programming, including after-school activities, camps, school nutrition, and Christmas assistance such as food hampers and toys.

Supported by generous donors, volunteers, and community partners, The Salvation Army meets people in their moment of need--and stays with them for the journey ahead. When you give to The Salvation Army, you're investing in renewed hope, restored dignity, and a stronger future for overlooked individuals and families in your community.

More information can be found at SalvationArmy.ca.

SOURCE The Salvation Army Prairies and Northern Territories Division

Media may contact: Maria Silva-Dean, Cell: 587-783-1504 | [email protected]