United Methodist disaster response volunteers have been conducting assessments in areas hit by recent flooding and other disasters throughout the USA. UMCOR has also been aiding areas greatly impacted by COVID-19. The following are some of the recent UMCOR efforts:

• Initial assessments and relief efforts for the widespread damage caused by the “derecho” in the Midwest are being organized by UMCOR-trained conference disaster response coordinators. UMCOR is in communication with the conferences and stands ready to offer support.

• As a federal moratorium that protected an estimated 12 million people from eviction expires, Restore Hope Ministries in Oklahoma and Good Neighbor Settlement House in Texas are using grants to help those in danger of losing their housing and to help those already on the streets.

• The Sheltering in Love campaign has had a far-reaching impact in the global fight against COVID-19. 230 grants totaling $2,329,785 have gone straight into local communities, meeting pressing needs. Gum Moon Residence, Red Bird Mission, and Henderson Settlement used UMCOR Rapid Response COVID-19 grants to reach more people with necessities like food, water, baby supplies, and counseling.

• In the aftermath of sudden explosions that occurred in Beirut, UMCOR is in communication with partners in the region, working to assess the best route for support in response to this disaster.

• Asylum seekers in New York, Miami, and Houston find a new avenue of hope through an UMCOR, National Justice for Our Neighbors, and CWS partnership. The UMCOR Asylum Project seeks to provide legal representation and case management for those with compelling reasons not to return to their home countries.

• Michigan communities devastated by May flooding are receiving UMCOR assistance with clean-up and recovery.

It is through your generous support that UMCOR can quickly respond to needs in the USA and around the world. Monetary donations may be included with your regular offering; if you wish to specify domestic response or international response, please mark your gift accordingly. You may also use EasyTithe.