Emergency response in Liberia

18 August 2003

The week of 11 August 2003 saw significant efforts towards a calming of tensions in Liberia. With the arrival of ECOWAS forces and the resignation and departure of President Charles Taylor, conditions now exist for humanitarian assistance to begin.

As a result, UMCOR has begun the shipment of supplies that include hygiene kits, layette kits, clothing and blankets to Liberia. Our Liberian and international staff will be conducting needs assessments to identify the areas and sectors where assistance is most urgently required. We will be working in coordination with other international partners and donor organizations.

UMCOR plans to conduct an assessment at Ganta Hospital (supported by The United Methodist Church) as soon as possible to consider the steps that need to be taken in order to restart operations.

We anticipate that needs will outweigh resources. The Liberian people will need continued support from the international community and The United Methodist Church.

Support for UMCOR Liberia

Gifts from individuals, churches and groups are especially important for our work. Please give whatever you can to help the people of Liberia.

Europe: Donations can be sent to the EMK-Weltmission Germany at the bank EKK, account no. 401 773, sort code (BLZ) 60060606, swift code GENODEF1EK1.

North America: Donations can be sent to support UMCOR's work in Liberia with a check payable to UMCOR, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087-9068, designated "Advance #150300 Liberia ". Call 1-800-554-8583 to make a credit card donation.