Storm Response Update: Assessing Needs

May 2, 2011

Episcopal Relief & Development is supporting relief efforts in a number of Episcopal dioceses in the South and Southeast, after tornadoes in two separate storm systems (on April 16 and 27) caused catastrophic damage and claimed nearly 400 lives across eight states.

In North Carolina, the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina is mounting a response across the diocese with participation from fourteen parishes in Raleigh and surrounding communities. In the coastal Diocese of East Carolina, two parishes are working to meet community needs through providing temporary housing and vouchers for food, clothing and other necessities.

In the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, Diocesan Disaster Coordinators have appointed two people to spearhead the diocese’s response effort. They are currently assessing needs and preparing to fill gaps left when first responder organizations begin to leave the area later this week.

In the Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee, Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with Chattanooga’s Metropolitan Ministries, the Episcopal organization that the diocese has asked to head up the effort to respond to needs in tornado-affected parts of the city and surrounding areas.

Episcopal Relief & Development has also been in contact with the Episcopal Dioceses of Virginia, Mississippi, Atlanta and Kentucky, and is working with local partners to assess needs and prepare response plans.

Please continue to pray for those affected by these devastating storms. To support these response efforts, you can make a donation to the USA Disaster Response Fund, or text HEAL to 20222 (more information here).