Damage due to Hurricane Ian in Fort Myers Beach, Florida
Photo Credit: U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Jesse Hanson is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.

“The dioceses in Florida have worked hard over the past several years to prepare, which has allowed them to quickly respond with assistance where it is most needed,” said Lura Steele, Program Officer, Episcopal Relief & Development

NEW YORK (PRWEB)
October 06, 2022

Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Episcopal dioceses of Southwest Florida and Florida to provide supplies and direct financial assistance to people affected by Hurricane Ian.

Over 100 people have been killed by Hurricane Ian, a Category 4 storm that made landfall in Florida on Wednesday, September 28, 2022. Thousands of people remain without power and many do not have access to clean drinking water as officials continue to survey the damage to homes and businesses.

With Episcopal Relief & Development’s support, the Diocese of Southwest Florida is providing direct financial assistance in the counties hardest hit by the storm. Local communities will use the aid to purchase gas and groceries, and for other special needs as they arise.

The Diocese of Florida, in partnership with Episcopal Relief & Development, is distributing blankets and sleeping bags and providing direct financial assistance to unhoused people and storm survivors. They will also work to replenish local food pantries and damaged community garden spaces that provide fresh food to communities affected by poverty.

“As power is being restored in some areas and roads are being cleared, the extent of the damage is becoming more clear,” said Lura Steele, Program Officer, US Disaster Program, Episcopal Relief & Development. “The dioceses in Florida have worked hard over the past several years to prepare, which has allowed them to quickly respond with assistance where it is most needed, both in the short-term and in the years to come.”

Episcopal Relief & Development US Disaster Program staff are working closely with partners throughout Florida as they continue to identify ways to collaborate in meeting needs created by the hurricane.

Please continue to pray for everyone who has been affected by Hurricane Ian. Donations to Episcopal Relief & Development’s Hurricane Relief Fund will provide additional emergency relief in communities impacted by storms such as Ian.

ABOUT EPISCOPAL RELIEF & DEVELOPMENT

For over 80 years, Episcopal Relief & Development has been working together with supporters and partners for lasting change around the world. Each year the organization facilitates healthier, more fulfilling lives for more than 3 million people struggling with hunger, poverty, disaster and disease. Inspired by Jesus’ words in Matthew 25, Episcopal Relief & Development leverages the expertise and resources of Anglican and other partners to deliver measurable and sustainable change in three signature program areas: Women, Children and Climate.

Share article on social media or email: