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Lake in the Hills Today
By the People, for the People
Salvation Army Unveils New Emergency Canteen in McHenry County
The new vehicle will support first responders and survivors during crises across the region.
Apr. 16, 2026 at 1:50am
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The Salvation Army's new emergency response canteen stands ready to provide critical aid and support to first responders and survivors during times of natural disaster and crisis.Lake in the Hills TodayThe Salvation Army of McHenry County has unveiled a new $200,000 emergency response canteen that will be deployed to emergency scenes across the county and surrounding areas. The canteen is equipped with industrial freezers, a full stove, and other equipment to provide meals, drinks, and support to first responders and survivors during crises such as natural disasters, fires, and crashes.
Why it matters
The Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services has provided critical resources and aid to communities in crisis for over a century. This new canteen will enhance the organization's ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies in the McHenry County region, supporting first responders and ensuring survivors have access to essential food, water, and other necessities during difficult times.
The details
The new emergency response canteen, which falls under the 300-level category and can serve up to 500 meals per day, was unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 6 in Crystal Lake. It is primarily operated by volunteers Tom Allen and Pat Trunda, who previously responded to emergencies in an older 1998 canteen truck. Since arriving in Crystal Lake in February, the new canteen has already been deployed seven times, serving over 500 drinks and 200 snacks.
- The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new canteen was held on April 6, 2026.
- The new canteen arrived in Crystal Lake in February 2026.
- As of early April 2026, the canteen had already been deployed seven times to various emergency responses.
The players
The Salvation Army of McHenry County
A local branch of the Salvation Army that provides emergency disaster services and support to communities in McHenry County, Illinois.
Tom Allen
A volunteer who operates the new emergency response canteen for the Salvation Army of McHenry County.
Pat Trunda
A volunteer who operates the new emergency response canteen for the Salvation Army of McHenry County.
State Senator Dave Syverson
A state senator who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Salvation Army canteen.
State Representative Suzanne Ness
A state representative who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Salvation Army canteen and praised the organization's efforts.
What they’re saying
“This simply couldn't be possible without the help of some amazing EDS Canteen volunteers, many of whom are retired firefighters from right here in our community.”
— Suzanne Ness, State Representative
“This new canteen is so important to not only help local families, but also to travel miles beyond our immediate borders to assist other communities hit by disaster. Clean water, hot food and a neighbor's helping hand is truly irreplaceable in these times of need. As a community, we are beyond thankful for these wonderful volunteers.”
— Suzanne Ness, State Representative
What’s next
The Salvation Army plans to continue deploying the new emergency response canteen to support first responders and survivors during crises across McHenry County and the surrounding region.
The takeaway
The Salvation Army's investment in this new emergency canteen demonstrates their ongoing commitment to providing critical aid and resources to communities in times of crisis. By equipping the canteen with advanced capabilities and deploying it across the region, the organization is ensuring it can quickly and effectively respond to a wide range of emergencies to support first responders and those in need.