Families in hurricane ravaged Florida are receiving additional emergency assistance from Episcopal Relief and Development. An active hurricane season caused four deadly hurricanes that battered Florida, destroying homes, business, and critical infrastructure throughout the state. Many people are homeless and others remain without electricity.
On behalf of Episcopalians, Episcopal Relief and Development is providing additional funds to the Dioceses of Southwest Florida and Central Florida to provide critical assistance such as temporary shelter, food, and clothing to affected families.
"The disaster has turned towards recovery and several congregations are assisting others in many ways," said the Rev. Canon Michael P. Durning, Canon to the Ordinary in the Diocese of Southwest Florida. ERD's assistance will help four parishes in devastated communities continue their outreach efforts to families in need. Two parishes, St. Edwards in Arcadia and St. John's, are working with migrant workers who lost their livelihood because of the hurricanes. Good Shepard in Punta Gorda and St. James in Port Charlotte, both damaged by Hurricane Charley, are providing food and other necessities to local residents.
In Central Florida, ERD is providing ongoing assistance for temporary shelter, food, water, health and household supplies, and medicine. Several areas in the region were hit by multiple hurricanes.
To make a contribution for people affected by hurricanes in the United States and the Caribbean, donate to the 2004 Hurricane Relief Fund at www.er-d.org or call (800) 334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, c/o 2004 Hurricane Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ, 07101.
Episcopal Relief and Development saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.