Why Disaster Response?

Why do we do disaster response?

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VIM Trip - Asheville, NC

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VIM Trip to Asheville, NC Psalm 46 1-2 reads, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Here we are eight months after Hurricane Helene and there is so much devastation still left from the hurricane, but the Lord is near the brokenhearted and saving the spirits through this devastation. A group from Mt. Calvary UMC (Harrisburg, PA - River Valley District) and Faith UMC (Bellefonte - Mountain Valley District) are just returning from a Volunteer in Missions trip to Asheville, NC. As they worked to help the survivors rebuild they saw many things that showed them that this area is still in need of help. As you drive through, there are vehicles that were once functioning that are now junk cars. Many of the businesses that were once thriving are now no more. One homeowner had many raised garden beds, a B&B cabin, a hot tub, green grass, and it is all now wiped away from the storm. This particular family had to climb up the mountain to escape the ragin...
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Knoxville Yoked Church Receives Grant from UM Foundation

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L to R:  Ed Stuart, Rev. L. Fitzgerald Reist II, Sharon Heck, Gene Heck Impact of Tropical Storm Debby on Local Communities The destruction caused by Tropical Storm Debby in Tioga, Potter, Lycoming, and Union Counties was significant, leading FEMA to issue disaster declarations for these areas. Numerous residents and businesses faced damage and are currently striving to restore their properties.  One church in Knoxville, PA, suffered particularly devastating losses, as an entire wall was washed away due to the flooding. In addition to the wall, they also lost their ADA ramp. Despite these challenges, the community rallied together.  The Cowanesque Church extended an invitation for the Knoxville Yoked Church to join them for Sunday services while repairs were underway.  During this period, the UM Foundation provided a grant of $5,000 to support survivors affected by Tropical Storm Debby, which was awarded to the Knoxville Yoked Church by the Disaster Response Minis...
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VIM Needed Immediately - Eastern PA

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Volunteer Opportunity for Hurricane Ida Recovery Efforts  Dear VIM Teams,  We are reaching out to inform you that the Eastern PA Conference is in urgent need of volunteers for recovery efforts following Hurricane Ida (August, 2021). This is a critical time for our community, and your support can make a significant difference.  Currently, there is great flexibility regarding availability, allowing you and your team to contribute as your schedules permit. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Denise F. Shelton directly. She will assist with coordination and paperwork to ensure a smooth process.  It is important to remember that, even though significant time has passed since Hurricane Ida, many survivors are still in the rebuilding phase. Recent reductions in volunteer support due to America Corps cuts have further highlighted the need for help. Together, we can make an impact and serve our community in this time of need.  Please reach out to Denise...
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