Why Prepare?

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, disasters are still happening and preparedness continues to be necessary. You may be wondering, why prepare? Well, preparedness helps you withstand the impact of a disaster. And your resilience puts you in a better position to help someone else! Essentially, preparedness is about community.

Before COVID-19, many families were able to prepare emergency disaster kits or stock up on supplies in preparation for a hurricane or fire. Right now, there is a higher rate of families living on restricted or no income. If you are able, why not make two kits? One for you and another for someone in need. This will help sustain them in the time before it’s safe to go out and access goods from pantries. Always remember to ask first regarding food allergies or cultural preferences. Together, we can work to make this a season of resilience for all!

MAKE A KIT FOR SOMEONE ELSE | PREPARE YOUR HOUSEHOLD 

REFILL YOUR TANK

Preparedness is not only about having insurance and gathering supplies. Disasters can be traumatic. A healthy prayer life, being part of a strong community and resting are all ways to make sure you can withstand the impact of a disaster. The following resources provide tips to manage stress, identify burnout in yourself and others as well as provides some language to understand the gamut of emotions.

SELF-CARE FOR CHURCH LEADERS | MAINTAINING RESILIENCE DURING UNCERTAIN TIMES

INEQUALITY AND DISASTERS

Disasters occur around the world, and vulnerable groups bear the brunt of it. In the US, factors like race, gender, class and citizenship will affect a person’s ability to evacuate, safely shelter-in-place and recover from a disaster. People with more resources fare much better in most cases when it comes to disasters. As Christ followers, we are called to serve the people who society forgets about. It is our aim at Episcopal Relief & Development to shed light on inequality in order to equip church leaders to respond. Explore the infographics below to learn more:

What are some ways you feel called to help others prepare for a disaster? Email usdisaster@episcopalrelief.org to share your idea!