Through UMCOR, United Methodists extend loving care to people within the United States. When disaster strikes, it is local churches that provide the first response to their communities. This basic understanding—that disaster response is local—forms the foundation for UMCOR’s US disaster training and response. When responding to a disaster in the United States, UMCOR provides training, financial assistance, expertise, community collaboration to churches and partners making them more resilient to disasters. Please give if you are able to.
UMCOR DISASTER RELIEF OPPORTUNITIES:
Catastrophic Flooding in the Great Lakes River Basin:
“On Tuesday evening, May 19, following heavy rains, two dams on the Tittabawassee River failed, in part or completely, sending torrents of water downstream and causing catastrophic flooding in the Great Lakes River Basin region. Like me, I am sure you watched in sheer astonishment as the waters raged and rose. The hearts of all Michigan United Methodists break in the face of such tragedy. Conference staff and volunteers have been working to coordinate a United Methodist response in cooperation with UMCOR and state and local agencies. I know you have been praying for all those affected. I know you will want to reach out to help.” ~ Rev. David Bishop, MI Conference
HOW TO HELP:
Give to Michigan Area Disaster Response Fund through MichiganUMC.org or send a check to: MI Conference, 1161 East Clark Rd, Suite 212, Dewitt, MI 48820. Write this exact language on the memo line:
#4407 Michigan Area Disaster Response
Mission Work Team Opportunities – Midland Area:
According to Nancy Money, Michigan Conference Disaster Coordinator, the Midland area flood recovery is now fielding volunteer teams for rebuilding activities in cooperation with four UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) workers assigned to the three affected counties.
HOW TO HELP:
If you are interested in volunteering or being a part of a team from UUMC please contact Scott McRee at smcree2004@yahoo.com or (517) 303-0079.
Hurricane Disaster Response Needs:
UMCOR-trained Emergency Response Teams have been responding to the critical needs of people impacted by Hurricane Laura in Louisiana and Texas, the severe fires in 7 of our western states and COVID-19. They will be responding to those affected by Hurricane Sally and others forming in the Caribbean this week. These are just the most recent disasters among many in 2020. In Texas and Louisiana, the most urgent need is for funds to purchase water, generators and fuel and to supply transportation, food, and personal protective equipment for volunteers. Residents and volunteers cannot stay in the affected areas due to the damage and a strict curfew imposed to ensure public safety. Volunteers must travel each day between badly damaged areas and supply hubs. Funds will also be needed for fire damage recovery in the Western States and Hurricane Sally and “friends” recovery in the Gulf States. Your help is needed today to provide the tangible items necessary for relief work.
HOW TO HELP:
Please direct your donations to UMCOR Advance Fund #999895 so funds can be used in the areas of most needs. Donations can be given directly to UMCOR at umcmission.org, through the VENMO app @UUMCDonation with UMCOR Advance #999895 in the message line, or by mailing a check to: University UMC, 1120 S. Harrison Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823 with Advance #999895 written in the memo line.
At University United Methodist Church, we affirm that as disciples of Jesus Christ, we are an open and inclusive congregation and welcome all persons into full participation regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic situation, age, ability, education, background and whether single or partnered.