There is ample evidence to show that broad sanctions against a country mostly affects the people who are already disadvantaged in that country: the poor and marginalized. United States sanctions policies have exemptions for humanitarian purposes, but in practice it is extremely difficult to get a humanitarian license. And even if a group receives a license, getting banks who are naturally risk-averse to allow any transactions, even for food and medicine, takes time and a lot of effort.
Our partner, the Middle East Council of Churches, has called for “the immediate lifting of sanctions on Syria and allowing access to all materials, so sanctions may not turn into a crime against humanity.” We join our partners in this call and therefore urge the Biden Administration to lift sanctions against Syria.
Read MoreBecause disasters often expose, widen, and exacerbate the gaps of pre-existing disparities, it is essential that communities of faith prioritize and hold fast in their commitments to equity and justice. This webinar will equip faith communities with the knowledge and awareness required to act in accordance with our values.
Read MoreWould you like to offer emotional and spiritual care to people impacted by disaster? Apply to serve on the UCC Emotional and Spiritual Care in Disaster Team.
Read MoreConference Ministers and Disaster Coordinators are contacting churches to learn of potential damages. Generous support of One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) is enabling early response.
Members of the UCC Emotional and Spiritual Care Team are on standby. Kentucky and other VOAD partners including the UCC are meeting daily to coordinate clean up efforts.
Cash is the best way to help. Designate 2021 Severe Storms / December Tornados.
Read MoreThis isn’t the first severe storm this year and we can be reasonably sure it won’t be the last.
What’s the best way to help now? Send money. UCC Disaster Response and Recovery Minister Lesli Remaly said of Hurricane Ida, “For a storm this size, money makes good sense as we know long-term recovery and rebuilding will be necessary.”
Read MoreOn Friday, February 19, the United Church of Christ issued an appeal to raise funds for 2021 winter storm relief and long-term recovery in Texas and beyond.
UCC Issues Appeal in Response to Winter Storms
UCC News story on how churches already are responding
Read MoreRead updates on west coast wildfires and the gulf hurricanes. These disaster events are ongoing and in early stages. Affected conferences and congregations are still assessing the needs. UCC Disaster Ministries focuses on recovery following the disaster events. The best immediate response is to contribute financially and allow the UCC and local Disaster Coordinators to determine the best, most immediate use of financial resources.
Read MoreRead the request from the American Red Cross Regional Disaster Officer serving Arizona and New Mexico. See how you can help victims of the hurricanes and wildfires.
Read MoreThere are currently work team opportunities in Puerto Rico, Florida, and California.
Read MoreIn churches across the county (and world) the safety and security of congregants, staff, and the facilities has become a significant concern. One could say that part of our “Extravagant Welcome” should now include implementing plans to help prevent and react to threats that can compromise the safety and well-being of church members, staff and guests.
Read MoreIs your church prepared to withstand a natural disaster and to help your congregation and community in the aftermath? Do you want to be prepared but don’t know where to start? See below a variety of resources to help your church and families to be prepared for natural disasters and to better react when they do happen.
Read MoreFrom Phil Shea, SWC Disaster Coordinator, UCC:
UCC Disaster Ministries focuses on Preparedness and Long-Term Recovery. Long-Term Recovery is the most protracted response and the costliest. As you receive inquiries from individuals wanting to ‘do something’ or support UCC Disaster Ministries, here are some suggestions.
Read MoreReport from Phil Shea, SWC Disaster Coordinator, 11 April 2019
It was my privilege last week to represent the SWC in Puerto Rico at the annual meeting of Conference Disaster Coordinators and the UCC Disaster Ministries staff. Meeting in Puerto Rico was an opportunity to experience the beauty of the country and its people while also learning about the work the UCC and its local partners are doing to rebuild a country ravaged by back to back hurricanes. The UCC continues to send money and work teams to this country. $1.5 already invested and another $1 million anticipated over the next 1-2 years.
Read MorePhil Shea updates us on donations, clean-up buckets/kits, work teams, case managers, and how the UCC Disaster Ministries are ready to help.
Read MoreOn behalf of the Southwest Conference UCC Disaster Ministries I extend our prayers and concerns to our congregations and their communities who are in the path of Hurricane Florence. The hurricane is expected to make landfall during the next couple days along the North Carolina coast. Due to the size of the storm, its anticipated path and its expected “stalling” along the coast, several states will be severely impacted. If you have family and friends in any of these locations, I would strongly encourage that they heed the local and regional warnings being issued by emergency management officials.
You and your congregation may want to extend your compassion and assistance to the areas affected.
Read MoreRead about Puerto Rico work teams, VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) award, mission trips, FEMA webinar, and other updates.
Read MoreThree and a half million Puerto Ricans are facing a devastating humanitarian crisis in the wake of Hurricane Maria. Flooding and mudslides have left millions without power, 40 percent without drinking water, and only 11 of the islands 69 hospitals in operation.
Read More
