Up-date: The LCMS has launched a new online volunteer system that enables people to determine quickly and efficiently where their service will be of greatest benefit to those who face challenges because of Hurricane Ida. Click the image link below to learn more.
People near and around the globe are suffering, and many of you have asked how you can help. We have partnered with the following organizations in an effort to share God's love with those who are hurting.
Haiti Earthquake Relief: We reached out to Ministry in Mission (LCMS Recognized Service Organization) to find out about the immediate needs following the recent Haitian earthquake.
The immediate need is tarps, tents, medical supplies, food, and clean water. We can’t ship in and transport yet so monetary donations are the best to purchase in-country. There is a donate button on the website or a check can be mailed to: 3442 Shady Ln, Chesterland, OH 44026
NorCal Fire Relief: We have also reached out to St. Luke’s, Reno who is coordinating a part of the CNH District response to the devastation from the Dixie Fire. Here is what they shared:
The love of Christ is abundant in our church family!
On Tuesday, we will be picking up 60 cases of water, vending snacks, and dog and cat food. We will deliver to the Salvation Army in Susanville. We are sending gift cards (Visa, Wal-Mart, Kohl’s, Target Amazon & gas cards) to the Quincy Crisis Center. We know most of the residents of Greenville are there. We know of at least 6 families from First Lutheran and Our Savior in Chester, who lost everything!
We are asking our friends to donate money or buy gift cards in $50 increments, so our people can order (Exactly) what they need. The Crisis Center will help people shop online and supplies will go directly to the families. Folks who wish to donate can make out a check to St Luke Lutheran Church, Dixie Fire Fund. It would really help if you could send all the donations directly to St. Luke's, so we can customize them for each need.
St. Luke’s Lutheran Church
3835 Lakeside Dr
Reno, NV 89509
Helping Afghans Flee to Safety
Samaritan’s Purse has been partnering with organizations on the ground to get men, women, and children out of this horrific situation. We have been able to sponsor flights that have brought hundreds to safety—one of our partners made three trips that brought out 700 people in one day! We have also supported the evacuation of 80 missionary families via land routes.
Only God’s mighty hand can save those trapped in this crisis. Will you join in prayer for the people of Afghanistan? Please pray with me that rescue operations will continue and that more people will escape to safety. Pray for U.S. leaders to have wisdom and a great sense of urgency. Finally, pray that God will continue to lead Samaritan’s Purse as we seek to help those fleeing Afghanistan. If you wish, you can make a donation Here:
-Franklin Graham, President, Samaritan's Purse
Relief Trucks On the Way to Louisiana After Hurricane Ida
Hurricane Ida punched Louisiana with 150-mph winds, storm surge, and heavy rains yesterday on the 16th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina's landfall. The deadly Category 4 storm roared ashore about 100 miles south of New Orleans, knocking out power for more than 1 million people. Flooding is ongoing as downpours run off already saturated ground.
Samaritan's Purse has two Disaster Relief Units prepositioned to head into Louisiana as soon as it is safe to go. One deployed from our North Carolina headquarters before the storm even hit; the other is mobilized in Texas.
