Episcopal Relief and Development is helping families in Madrid, Spain, following a deadly bombing on the city's train system. On March 11, multiple explosions at three train stations occurred during rush hour. The attacks have killed at least 202 people, seriously injured 20 others, and wounded 1,400 people.
"March 11, 2004 will remain for posterity as one of the most terrible dates in Spanish history," wrote the Rt. Rev. Carlos López Lozano, Bishop of the Spanish Reform Episcopal Church (Iglesia Española Reformada Episcopal). "It was on this day that nearly two thousand families were marked, either by the loss of a loved one or by a family member being injured," he said.
On behalf of the Episcopal Church, Episcopal Relief and Development has advanced emergency funds to the Spanish Reform Episcopal Church (Iglesia Española Reformada Episcopal) in Madrid to help victims and survivors of the tragedy. The funds will provide critical assistance, such as food, clothing, and shelter, to immigrants who have little access to support.
"The [immigrant families] are the most fragile people and the most defenseless," said Bishop López. "About 30 percent of them were illegal immigrants from Romania, Latin America, and Africa. We want to support them right away."
To make a contribution and help people affected by the tragedy in Madrid and respond immediately after disasters around the world, donate to the Disaster Relief Fund online at www.er-d.org or call (800) 334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, c/o Disaster Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.
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 sustain safer, healthier, and more productive lives.
