Episcopal Relief and Development is helping families left homeless along the northeastern seaboard of the United States after Hurricane Isabel devastated communities in Virginia and Maryland. Hurricane Isabel ripped through North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, killing at least 38 people, and causing widespread power outages for several days. Heavy rain and strong winds damaged and destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses.
"Emergency funds will be donated to needy families who lost food and those forced to leave their homes," said the Rt. Rev. David C. Bane, Jr., Bishop of Southern Virginia. "It will also continue outreach services disrupted by the hurricane," said Bishop Bane.
Over 43 Virginia jurisdictions were declared disaster areas. In Maryland, state economic officials estimate the hurricane caused approximately $5 billion in damage statewide.
"Water damage has devastated homes in Baltimore, Highland, Essex, and Middle River," said Ashby DeLashmutt, Assistant to the Bishops in the Diocese of Maryland. "Families are without shelter, food, or clothing."
ERD is giving emergency assistance to families affected by the storm in Gloucester County, Virginia, near Richmond. "Ninety seven families in the county lost their homes," said the Rt. Rev. Peter James Lee, Bishop of Virginia. "Their possessions are outside their wrecked homes," said Bishop Lee.
On behalf of the Episcopal Church, Episcopal Relief and Development has given emergency funds to the Dioceses of Maryland, Virginia, and Southern Virginia. The funds will provide shelter, food, and other critical supplies such as bottled water, baby supplies, and blankets. Recently, ERD also gave emergency assistance to the Diocese of East Carolina following Hurricane Isabel.
Episcopal Relief and Development is an effective, reliable, and vital ministry of the Episcopal Church in communities around the world. Episcopal Relief and Development provides emergency assistance in times of disaster, rebuilds devastated communities after the immediate crisis is over, and offers long-term solutions to help people create safer, healthier, and more productive lives.
