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September 14, 2001: We are only beginning to realize the loss and devastation of last Tuesday's tragic events. UMCOR is developing plans for both short-term and long-term recovery efforts. Immediate efforts are to uphold the United Methodist Churches close to the catastrophe site at the World Trade Center as they provide pastoral care to traumatized survivors, rescue workers, news media staff, family members, and the thousands of neighbors who witnessed the tragedy and its ongoing aftermath. UMCOR will provide assistance for individuals who have lost their employment and/or housing due to the catastrophe.
Other response plans include joining with national Arab-American organizations to encourage peace and cooperation throughout the United States, working with communities to generate projects that promote peacebuilding, and offering workshops on caring for children in the wake of trauma in communities across the country.
Because the situation changes so quickly, response plans are likely to change as events unfold. We will keep you posted through the Hotline. Gifts may be made to UMCOR Advance #901125-3 "Love in the Midst of Tragedy." These gifts will be used for recovery from Tuesday's tragedies and for other critical situations that may develop as a result of these attacks.
Although our attention has been focused on New York, Washington DC, and Pennsylvania, our neighbors in Florida also need our prayers as tropical storm Gabrielle is currently dumping heavy rain on parts of that state. Some areas are experiencing flooding and if an UMCOR response is requested we will post that information here. Funds are still urgently needed for Hurricanes 2001, Advance #982350 to help people recover in Houston, Texas.
Gifts may be made through local United Methodist churches, or by calling 1-800-554-8583. Credit card donations are accepted. (Read more about how you can help UMCOR's emergency responses.)
UMCOR is providing emergency relief in many areas of the world. To find out more about current UMCOR ministries, please visit the website: http://gbgm-umc.org/umcor/
Please pray for those who have suffered the loss of loved ones, homes, and jobs in this week's tragic events, and please pray for tolerance and peace among neighbors and nations.
