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August 8, 2003: Liberia is facing an unparalleled humanitarian crisis. Almost all of its three million citizens will need some kind of emergency assistance in the near future. Another concern will be mending a shattered society. Bishop John Innis of The United Methodist Church of Liberia is particularly concerned about child soldiers. Recently he remarked, "There are children who aren't in school and are holding guns now. All they know is guns and violence." Your gifts to UMCOR's Liberia Emergency, Advance #150300 will enable United Methodists to respond to this ongoing emergency and to help rebuild the nation when the current conflict ends.
One of the most powerful typhoons in years ripped into the Philippines during the last week of July. At least 21 were killed by landslides, falling trees, or flash floods. Damage to crops, infrastructure and livestock was extensive. Bishops Leo Soriano and Solito Toquero of the Davao and Manila episcopal areas, respectively, have requested assistance from UMCOR. United Methodists are providing emergency food, blankets, tarps and medicines in stricken communities. Initial grants have gone out, but we anticipate that additional funds will be required. Please give generously to Philippines Emergency Advance #240235.
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is warning of a "silent" food crisis in Haiti, the poorest country in Latin America and the Caribbean. Living conditions of the poor have deteriorated markedly; over 3.8 million people are suffering from hunger. The School Hot Lunch Program, Advance #418790, provides nutritious lunches for Haitian school children, often their only meal of the day. Your support is urgently needed to keep this program at its full strength during these critical days.
UMCOR has distributed thousands of health and layette kits for emergencies around the world. The Sager Brown Depot is in need of replenished supplies. Please help by making the kits or sending bulk materials to UMCOR Sager Brown. Information is available on the UMCOR's emergency kits webpage at http://gbgm-umc.org/umcor/kits.cfm or by calling 1-800-814-8765.
UMCOR's programs are supported when you order our Christmas cards. Two sets are available: the "A Child is Born" Series featuring modern "madonnas" and the "Isaiah" series. One set of twelve cards (four designs) and envelopes can be ordered for $10.00 by calling 1-800-554-8583. Pictures of the cards are online at http://gbgm-umc.org/umcor/ccards.stm.
UMCOR provides emergency relief in many areas of the world. To find out more about UMCOR's ministries, please visit umcor.org. You can donate to any project by placing a contribution in the offering plate at a local United Methodist church; by sending a check to UMCOR, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087-9068; or by calling 1-800-554-8583, where credit card donations are accepted. UMCOR is exempt from tax under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States and qualifies for the maximum charitable contribution deduction by donors.
And, please pray for those who are hungry, displaced, sick or in poverty because of these and other natural and human-made disasters, and for the workers who minister to them.
