US Disaster Program

US Disaster

RESPONDING TO DISASTERS

Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Program works in areas across the United States that have been affected by disasters. By offering resources and training to help communities prepare for disasters and providing emergency support, we help vulnerable groups of people to make a full and sustained recovery.

Our Church partners are an integral part of these communities; because of our ongoing relationships we are there before others arrive and stay with them for the years of recovery that follow. Episcopal Relief & Development’s Disaster Preparedness Initiative equips Episcopal dioceses in the United States to prepare for and respond to disasters. Dioceses that sign on to the initiative receive ongoing training, resources and support from Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Program.

When necessary, we may also provide emergency financial assistance to dioceses to supplement these resources, enabling churches to connect with and offer assistance to their most vulnerable neighbors. Emergency funds are distributed through the local bishop’s office, often with the help of a Diocesan Disaster Coordinator, who communicates with Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Program team.

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READY TO SERVE

As part of the US Disaster Preparedness Initiative, Episcopal Relief & Development is building a database of volunteers who are ready and willing to respond in the event of a disaster. When churches and/or dioceses around the nation are affected by disaster, Diocesan Disaster Coordinators will post opportunities. Sign up on our digital platform to be connected to these opportunities.

SIGN UP

PREPARING FOR DISASTERS

Feeling prepared for a situation – be it a job interview, a new baby or a sudden disaster – not only helps us experience less fear and anxiety, but can actually improve how things go. The three most important things you can do to prepare for a disaster are to make a plan, be informed and get a kit.

Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Program offers a variety of resources to help you, your loved ones, your church and your community to prepare for and respond to disasters that may occur.

PREPARE

THE EPISCOPAL ASSET MAP

Across the Church, there are individuals, churches, and institutions that represent an abundance of gifts. The Episcopal Asset Map, a joint project of The Episcopal Church and Episcopal Relief & Development, highlights and connects our stories into one searchable site.

DISCOVER

DIOCESAN DISASTER COORDINATORS

Diocesan Disaster Coordinators play an important role in disaster response and recovery. The US Disaster Program relies on Diocesan Disaster Coordinators to communicate preparedness information, post volunteer opportunities on the Ready to Serve volunteer portal and to help coordinate trainings across the country.

LAMPLIGHT

For news about how the Episcopal Church is responding to the needs of communities impacted by disasters throughout the country, Lamplight’s got you covered. Stay up to date and read past issues.

THE RESOURCE LIBRARY

The Resource Library is an online collection of disaster preparedness and response. Search through this catalog to learn best practices, tips and lessons learned from Episcopal dioceses and congregations in the US.