UMCOR Is Ready for Rita, Officials Say

NEW YORK, Sept. 22, 2005- As more than a million people fled north away from Hurricane Rita's 165-mile-an-hour winds, United Methodist Committee on Relief emergency services officials made plans to manage the current response to Hurricane Katrina and to expand its scope to include Rita recovery.

"We're in constant contact with our emergency workers and consultants who are on the ground in the Gulf Coast states," said the Rev. Kristin L. Sachen, Emergency Services Office head. "UMCOR's self-sufficient early response teams are poised to go into the new disaster zone as soon as it is safe to do so," she said.

In the meantime, she had advice for people in Rita's path.

• Listen to local emergency advisories
• Have three days' food, water, and batteries on hand
• Know your most vulnerable neighbors and church members and have a way to contact them

"Disasters like these powerful hurricanes offer an opportunity for people to make remarkable connections with their neighbors that may not be possible in ordinary times," said Ms. Sachen.

UMCOR also invites United Methodists to continue their generosity in giving as the new storm threatens a large area with damage from high winds and floodwaters. Disasters of this scope will require years of recovery and investment. "Cash is the best gift right now," said Ms. Sachen. "UMCOR does not accept clothing or food because they take up valuable space that is needed for critical emergency supplies." A list of most-needed supplies is available online at umcor.org.

Cash gifts will help UMCOR continue to support work of volunteers, annual conferences and interfaith response efforts in the Gulf Coast disaster area as well as other vulnerable regions of the world. Checks can be mailed to UMCOR, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087. One hundred percent of every donation to any appeal, including the Hurricane Rita appeal, UMCOR Advance #901323, goes to support recovery efforts in the disaster-stricken regions.