Salvation Army sets up canteen on Ocracoke, Variety Store open

The Salvation Army is on Ocracoke Island and began serving meals tonight in the Ocracoke Community Center.

Several hundred islanders lined up for a hot meal.  The Army will serve meals tomorrow (Sunday) at 8 a.m. noon and 5 p.m. in the Community Center.

The Ocracoke team is one of several Deployed Emergency Response Services mobile feeding units (canteens) the Salvation Army has mobilized, according to a press release issued today.

Operations are underway to mobilize additional canteens to be sent out towards the hardest hit areas, including Ocracoke Island, where damage reports are still coming in. The teams will continue to serve first responders and residents as well as be on standby for mobile feedings at local coastal communities affected by this storm.

Supplies continue to be brought to Ocracoke Island from all over the state, including two tanker trucks for gasoline.

The Variety Store has opened, though without lights but enough juice to power the cash registers. Owner Tommy Hutcherson said the store received some water from the hurricane and that the store will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Re-entry to Hatteras Island began today for residents and non-resident property owners and essential personnel of critical businesses, Dare County announced.

Sand and water remains on many Hatteras Island roadways. Drive slowly and proceed with caution.