Exploring the Connections

CENTRAL AMERICA: ERD responds to widespread flooding, mudslides in El Salvador

Episcopal Life on Line, November 19, 2009

ERD] El Salvador was hit Nov. 7-8 by severe weather caused by a low-pressure system in the Atlantic Ocean related to Hurricane Ida. Receiving nearly 12 inches of rain in six hours, the nation was affected by widespread flooding and mudslides. The death toll currently stands at 194, with 80 people still missing.

Damage to El Salvador's infrastructure has been extensive. A total of 223 dwellings have been destroyed and 630 are still at risk of collapse. As a result, nearly 14,300 people are living in 118 temporary shelters across the country. In addition, the floods damaged 34 bridges and 93 roads, 12 of which are still in the process of being reopened.

In response to the crisis, Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is working with two partners, the Episcopal Church of El Salvador and the Asociacion CREDHO, to provide immediate relief. Both organizations have conducted needs assessments, evaluated capacity gaps and considered coordination opportunities in order to utilize funds to the fullest.

Fundación Cristosal, a foundation for the support of the Anglican Episcopal Church of El Salvador, is also responding to the crisis in El Salvador.

"Thankfully, through our network of valued, in-country partners we have been able to rapidly assess and respond to this extensive disaster," said Matthew St. John, ERD's program officer for Latin America and the Caribbean.

The support will help to provide food, potable water, basic medical supplies, hygiene kits, clothing and assistance for shelters, reaching approximately 2,200 people living in the six communities hit hardest by the storm, including San Salvador and San Vincente.

"While our assistance will aid those suffering in the wake of the storm, the needs of the people impacted are tremendous," said St. John. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Salvadoran people."

To support those in El Salvador impacted by the crisis, donations can be made to ERD's 'Hurricane Relief" fund online here, or by calling 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Civil conflict in Sri Lanka forces thousands to evacuate

Renewed fighting between the eastern and northern region of Sri Lanka has caused thousands of people to flee their homes.  Homes and businesses have been burned and looted as the violence continues to escalate.  In the town of Dili, one of the hardest hit areas, approximately 60 percent of the homes have been destroyed.  This year alone more than 700 people have been added to the list of casualties.

Episcopal Relief and Development is working through the Diocese of Colombo to provide critical aid to internally displaced people.  Approximately 120,000 people from 11 different regions have been affected.  Local churches have opened their doors to serve as temporary shelters, providing simple meals such as rice, curry and roti to the people.   In Trincomalee, 479 families were given dry rations and temporary housing.  The region of Ampara received 70 mattresses and in Navatkudah, relief packages were distributed in the various camps.

“I continue to be humbled as the church responds to the physical and spiritual needs of those who suffer in the cross fire of this increased violence,” said Kirsten Laursen, senior director for ERD’s Asia Programs. “The courage to serve people in need regardless of religion, ethnicity or political orientation is a hallmark of the work of the church.” 

To help people affected by this disaster, please make a donation to the Emergency Relief Fund at http://www.er-d.org/, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief and Development “Emergency Relief Fund.” P.O. Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.