How can we help? All of us watching the destruction of Hurricane Harvey over the last week have asked this same question. What can we do? The good news is, “we” as the ELCA–churchwide, synods, and congregations–have already begun to help.

 The work of Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) is comprehensive and extensive. From the time the news breaks to years after the headlines fade, LDR is there–walking alongside disaster survivors and helping them recover and rebuild for as many years as it takes. Gifts to LDR, designated for “Hurricane Response–United States” will be used entirely (100%) for this disaster until the response is complete.

The areas impacted by Harvey are primarily part of two ELCA synods: SW Texas Synod and TX-LA Gulf Coast Synod. NC Synod Bishop Tim Smith reports, “Our synod just sent $5,000 to SW Texas Synod and $5,000 to TX-LA Gulf Coast Synod to aid them as they begin their work of recovery and response.” Read recent reports from the SW Texas Facebook page and Bishop Michael Rinehart of TX-LA Gulf Coast.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

PRAY Please pray for the people who have been affected by Harvey and for those offering aid in various ways.

GIVE Give to LDR so that 100% of your gifts are used for disaster response. Give directly to the affected synods or congregations. Thrivent is currently matching gifts to LDR. Give to our synod’s Domestic Disaster Relief Fund.

CONNECT Share with your congregation ways to learn more about the situation and the ELCA’s response: bulletin inserts, sign up for LDR email alerts, follow the LDR Facebook page and Twitter account.  Follow the two impacted synods’ Facebook pages: SWTX and Gulf Coast. And, follow our NC Synod Facebook page and the synod’s Justice & Advocacy page to stay informed. There are several connections between our synod and impacted congregations–many former NC pastors are currently serving in TX and LA. Please contact the synod office (704-633-4861) if your congregation is working directly with a congregation in one of those locations.

One last word from LDR Coordinator for Texas/Louisiana: immediate threats and search and rescue are starting to slow. Also, the donation centers are being overrun with “stuff”: things that are not necessarily needed, wanted, nor can be stored. Please give responsibly. Unless a need has been verified and logistics confirmed ahead of time, please do not send material items.