Stories
Explore our Stories of Lasting Change. Each one is filled with hope, transformation and love from communities and our partners, staff and volunteers around the globe. See what’s possible when compassion drives action. Subscribe below to stay connected!
Local Leaders and Lasting Change in California, Hawai‘i and North Carolina
Disasters often make headlines in the moment, but recovery takes time, trust and local partnerships. The Palisades Fire, Maui Fire and Hurricane Helene were devastating to the impacted communities. Ever since, Episcopal Relief & Development has been intentionally working with local leaders to help survivors establish a new normal.
By Episcopal Relief & Development
Bringing Choice to the Table in Disaster Response Through Cash Assistance
In Louisiana, Episcopal Relief & Development collaborates with the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana (EDOLA) to help families recover from hurricanes and floods by providing cash assistance for unexpected costs. At the May National VOAD Conference, we presented survey results to encourage stakeholders to take this approach seriously. During the session, Karla duPlantier and Michelle Aguirre from EDOLA, Katie Mears and Lura Steele from Episcopal Relief & Development discussed how this model transforms disaster response by engaging with communities and empowering them to recover.
Dignity and Care for Ukrainian Refugees in Europe
Valentina, a disabled Ukrainian refugee and Senior Program Officer, Disaster Risk & Resilience at Episcopal Relief & Development share their insight on church-led initiatives across Europe are providing essential support—like food, legal aid, medical care, and community—to refugees facing displacement and hardship.
By Lura Steele
A Healthier View of Fatherhood in Ghana
, fathers like Samuel are able to learn tactics to nurture, support, and share responsibilities, fostering healthier, more loving homes with their partners and children.
Helping Families Flourish Through Moments That Matter®
Caroline, a mother of three and a Moments That Matter® program participant in Kenya shares her experience of how the program shifted her mindset and positively impacted her family’s well-being.
In Zimbabwe, Access to Water Creates Opportunities
In 2024, Zimbabwe faced severe drought conditions, particularly in Matabeleland South and North, where agriculture is crucial for rural communities. To address these challenges, a partnership with the Anglican Diocese of Matabeleland has implemented drought resilience programs, including improving water infrastructure and promoting climate-adaptive farming methods, which have helped communities like Mbembesi and Mahaja enhance their agricultural productivity and economic stability.
