The United Church of Christ has issued an appeal to support immediate needs for families and communities affected by Hurricanes Fiona and Ian.

While this year’s hurricane season started slow, the last two weeks have made it clear just how dangerous and destructive these storms can be. With wind speeds topping out at 130 miles per hour and 155 miles per hour, respectively, Hurricanes Fiona and Ian have left devastation in their wake. More than a week and a half after Fiona’s winds left all of Puerto Rico in the dark, hundreds of thousands of people remain without power. Communities remain in crisis mode as the delivery of food, drinking water, and medical needs is challenged in hard-to-reach places cut off by downed trees, mudslides, and washed away bridges.

Millions have lost power and access to clean drinking water. The need for emergency food support, medical care, and temporary shelter is high.

Rev. Edward Rivera-Santiago, Pastor General of Iglesia Evangélica Unida de Puerto Rico shared that congregations across the island are  reporting both church and community members whose homes are severely damaged, with some facing total loss. Solidarity grants from Global H.O.P.E. and Global Ministries have been sent to assist with immediate needs while basic infrastructure is repaired and more complete assessments can be made.

Meanwhile, Hurricane Ian has brought significant damage to Cuba, Florida, and the Carolinas. It is way too early to know the full extent of damage in Cuba and in Florida, yet early indications point to a recovery that will take many years – perhaps a decade. 

Emergency response personnel are active. Relief agencies are meeting immediate needs where they can gain access to communities hard hit by the storm. United Church of Christ partners through National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster who focus on relief are implementing their plans. Global Ministries Area Executive for Latin America Angel Luis Rivera is in touch with bilateral partners. Conference leaders and Conference Disaster Coordinators are making contact, assessing needs, and communicating with the Global H.O.P.E. team so that help can be channeled, now and for the long term. 

Your generous financial support will be used by our partners in the areas of greatest need, for relief and long-term recovery. If you prefer, you may mail a check payable to the United Church of Christ, PO BOX 71957 Cleveland, OH 44194. Please be sure to note “Hurricanes 2022 Fund” in the memo section.

Thank you for your support.