There are ways we can respond to natural disasters when they occur. We can pray for those affected and those taking action in response. We can also give of our financial resources in a very practical way by making a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD).
In light of the recent earthquakes in Puerto Rico, please read ERD’s latest press release below…
Web Statement – Press Release reprinted from Episcopal Relief & Development
January 16, 2020
Episcopal Relief & Development is supporting the Episcopal Diocese of Puerto Rico (Iglesia Episcopal Puertorriqueña) in response to the series of earthquakes that hit the island in recent weeks.
Multiple strong earthquakes have struck the southern part of Puerto Rico beginning in late December 2019, damaging buildings, knocking out power, and injuring many people. These quakes are the most damaging to strike the island since 1918.
Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Program team has been in daily contact with diocesan staff, providing support and counsel as they assess the damage and needs of affected communities. Programa REDES, the diocese’s disaster response team, is delivering critical supplies such as bottles of water and ready to eat foods to those in need, particularly in Yauco and Guánica. Potential aftershocks and additional earthquakes make safety a concern for the teams who are conducting assessments and providing relief to those impacted.
“The Diocese of Puerto Rico has extensive experience responding to natural disasters, particularly in the past several years,” said Abigail Nelson, Executive Vice President, Episcopal Relief & Development. “Their preparation and deep community connections are impressive and enable diocesan leaders to be Christ’s hands and feet in these challenging times.”
Please continue to pray for all those affected by the earthquakes in Puerto Rico.
Donations to the Disaster Response Fund will help Episcopal Relief & Development continue to provide emergency assistance to individuals and families affected by disasters such as these earthquakes, the fires in Australia and the volcano eruption in the Philippines.
For over 75 years, Episcopal Relief & Development has been working together with supporters and partners for lasting change around the world. Each year the organization facilitates healthier, more fulfilling lives for more than 3 million people struggling with hunger, poverty, disaster and disease.
Inspired by Jesus’ words in Matthew 25, Episcopal Relief & Development leverages the expertise and resources of Anglican and other partners to deliver measurable and sustainable change in three signature program areas: Women, Children and Climate.
Photo Courtesy of the Episcopal Diocese of Puerto Rico