Support Victims of Hurricane Helene

Rev. Daniel Rift, Director of our church body's Service and Justive Giving (ELCA World Hunger and Lutheran Disaster Response) has put out the following statement in response to the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene, a category 4 hurricane that has devestated the south:

"Friends:

Hurricane Helene hit the coast of Florida as a Category 4 hurricane on Sept. 26 and has ravaged communities in the southeast, from Florida to Virginia. As the floodwaters have started to recede, the extreme devastation — especially in North Carolina and Tennessee — has become clearer. Now, it is time to do what we do best: roll up our sleeves and get to work.

You’ve seen the news. Entire towns, roads and bridges have been washed away, and millions remain without power and cell service.

“We can't yet know what we're facing in terms of damage … but I do know [this],” says the Rev. Timothy Smith, bishop of the North Carolina Synod. “Lutheran Disaster Response, in partnership with our synod, along with other helpers, will be there for the long haul, and we will rally around our congregations, camps and communities.”

Whatever unfolds because of this storm, Lutheran Disaster Response will be there.

Lutheran Disaster Response has strong relationships in the region and is already at work on the ground. Working alongside synods and other partners, Lutheran Disaster Response is prepared to provide support throughout the impacted region.

“We are grateful for our partner Lutheran Disaster Response, which has provided support for our responses to the disasters this synod has experienced in the past and now has reached out to walk with us through this one,” says the Rev. Morgan Gordy, assistant to the bishop for disaster ministry in the Southeastern Synod. “Please donate generously so that, together, we can provide the care and support needed for those families and communities affected by Hurricane Helene.”

The impact of this storm will continue for years. Lutheran Disaster Response stays until the work is done — even when it takes weeks, months or years, and long after the storm has faded from the headlines. When you give to Lutheran Disaster Response, you provide crucial support and the flexibility to go where help is needed most.

By standing with disaster-impacted communities across the United States and around the world, we follow Christ’s call to share hope and healing with our neighbors in need.

With gratitude,

The Rev. Daniel Rift
Director, ELCA Service and Justice Giving
ELCA World Hunger and Lutheran Disaster Response

P.S. Find information and resources about Lutheran Disaster Response's hurricane relief at ELCA.org/hurricanes."

CLICK HERE TO PROVIDE DISASTER RELIEF FOR THE THOSE IMPACTED BY HURRICANE HELENE