October 10, 2005, NEW YORK -- Days
of unrelenting rains spawned by Hurricane Stan caused massive flooding
and mudslides in Guatemala, Mexico, and El Salvador. More than a thousand
are feared dead in Guatemala alone. This devastating loss is in addition
to destroyed roads, homes, crops, and livestock. The United Methodist Committee
on Relief (UMCOR) is currently assessing the situation to determine the
most effective long-term response to this tragedy.
UMCOR is assisting General Board of
Global Ministries' missionary in Guatemala, Eunice Arias, who is working
with local leaders to respond to this disaster. UMCOR will continue to
monitor the situation and work with local partners in their response.
This is the second disaster in strike El Salvador in less than two weeks. El Salvador's highest volcano, Ilamatepec, erupted on Oct.1, 2005, killing two people and spewing ash and toxic gasses that have prevented residents from returning home. UMCOR has sent grants to El Salvador where United Methodist Volunteers in Mission are working on recovery.
How You Can Help
Cash gifts will help UMCOR continue to support the immediate relief and long-term recovery of those affected by Hurricane Stan and the volcanic eruption. Checks can be mailed to UMCOR, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087. Write "UMCOR Advance #501300, Central America Emergency" on the memo line of your check. One hundred percent of every donation to any appeal, including appeals for Central America, goes to support recovery efforts in the disaster-stricken regions.