Supporting Partners After Tornadoes in the Central US
Responding to Tornadoes in Kentucky
Web Statement
December 17, 2021
Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Program staff continue to coordinate with affected Episcopal dioceses as they assess the impact of the intense tornadoes that hit the central US last weekend.
“Most disasters have three distinct and often overlapping phases: rescue, relief and recovery,” said Katie Mears, Senior Director, US Disaster Program, Episcopal Relief & Development. “As we move into the relief phase of this particular disaster, our partners are working to determine how best they can address needs that are not being met by other organizations.”
The state of Kentucky was particularly devastated by the tornadoes. Fourteen counties have been declared disaster areas by the federal government as of Friday, December 17. Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Episcopal Diocese of Kentucky to provide assistance to people whose homes were damaged or destroyed, unhoused people, immigrants, refugees, first responders and other people who have been affected by the storms.
The diocese is leveraging its churches and connections throughout the state to respond. They are providing shelter, food, clothing and direct cash assistance to marginalized communities such as people experiencing homelessness, refugees and immigrants. Staff and volunteers have also set up community coffees in Bowling Green to provide a listening ear for those who need it, and meals for first responders in Bowling Green, Murray, Mayfield and Paducah.
“We are still very early on in the relief phase of this disaster,” continued Mears. “We remain committed to supporting our partners in building a sustained recovery in the coming weeks. These partners have deep connections in their communities and are well-positioned to serve those in the most need in the coming weeks and months. We are deeply grateful for their ministry.”
Learn more about the phases of disaster and how you can help here. Please continue to pray for people who have been affected by the recent tornadoes and consider a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Fund to support the organization’s response.
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.
Supporting Partners After Tornadoes in the Central US
Web Statement
December 13, 2021
Episcopal Relief & Development is in contact with Episcopal dioceses in Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee in response to the devastating tornadoes that struck this past weekend.
A line of severe weather spread across the central US late Friday evening, December 10 through early Saturday morning, December 11. The storms created over 50 tornadoes, including one with a 200-mile long path through Kentucky. At least four EF-3 and five EF-2 tornadoes had been confirmed in Missouri and Illinois. EF-3 tornadoes are considered severe with estimated wind speeds of 158-206 mph.
Rescue efforts are underway to locate missing people and the full extent of the damage is unknown at this time. As of Monday morning, at least 26,000 homes in Kentucky are without power.
“We are in contact with Episcopal dioceses in the affected areas,” said Katie Mears, Senior Director, US Disaster Program, Episcopal Relief & Development. “Our partners are assessing the needs in their communities created by the storms. We stand ready to assist in the coming days and weeks.”
Please pray for the people impacted by the deadly tornadoes. Donations to the US Disaster Fund will support Episcopal Relief & Development and its partners as they respond.
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.
