December 17, 1999

   UMCOR is developing plans with ACT (Action by Churches Together) and local organizations in Turkey to provide temporary housing for 1,000 people in the Adapazari municipality who were left homeless by the earthquake. These housing units will provide an alternative to tents until permanent housing can be built. UMCOR also is working with the local government to provide bus lines, gas and electricity to this temporary community. Other proposals for ongoing recovery in Turkey include: rebuilding a school for deaf children so that they may return to school; working with a women's group to provide small income-generation projects, medical, legal and trauma counseling; and supporting a program for youth that will provide extra-curricular activities and vocational training. You may support these ongoing recovery efforts by giving to UMCOR Advance #675205-6.

As the year 2000 approaches, and we are bombarded by conflicting media stories of Y2K problems, please be assured that UMCOR stands ready to assist annual conferences in responding to those who may be affected by Y2K disruptions.

Please remember the Churchwide Appeal for Major Storm Devastation '99. Funds will be needed for several years to come. Rebuilding efforts will begin in earnest in North Carolina and Virginia after the first of the year. The most recent disbursement of UMCOR funds is $100,000 to the Oklahoma Conference for ongoing recovery work from the tornadoes in May. Five new houses, built by United Methodist volunteers, are being dedicated today. These replace homes that were completely destroyed by the tornado. Please give to Advance #982460-1.

    Gifts may be made through local United Methodist Churches, or by calling (800) 554-8583. Credit card donations are accepted at that number.

Please pray for all who suffer from natural and human-made disasters, hunger, and poverty.

Hotline Phone: 1-800-841-1235
Web: http://gbgm-umc.org/UMCOR-Hotline/