Presbyterian Disaster Assistance

Posted on May 23, 2013

Our prayers are with you

“Our hearts are just broken for the parents. Our prayers are with you.”

These words from Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin echo how many of us feel after a massive EF-5 tornado destroyed parts of Moore, Oklahoma, on Monday. Homes and businesses were stripped to their foundations by the powerful winds and schools caved in on the young children who took shelter along their hallways.

In just 30 minutes, 24 lives were lost, including nine children; more than 200 people were injured; and hundreds more were left homeless.

It is in these immediate hours and days that Oklahomans deeply need your prayers and financial support. Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is there with spiritual support and caregivers who understand and are trained for the unique challenges of those going through disaster. PDA works directly with mid councils to ensure we’re meeting the needs of the community.

This is also the time when PDA’s work begins coordinating volunteer teams. These teams are vital and make rebuilding possible for those most in need. It is in the weeks, months, and years that follow that PDA will remain—helping with the long-term recovery even when others have moved onto the next disaster or story.

It is something we’ve already seen this year—from the winter storm that pounded the northeast to tornadoes in Georgia, Tennessee, Texas, and Alabama. Presbyterians are still there, helping those in need.

Now the heartland is hurting, but neighbors already are coming together, picking up the pieces, and moving forward. Will you stand in the GAP (Give/Act/Pray) to help communities recover from this devastating disaster?

What You Can Do

Donate now . Join the PC(USA) in its collective prayer . Register to become part of a volunteer work team .  Learn more: get the PDA situation report

We ask that you stand in the GAP for those who are being affected by these devastating storms.

GIVE. Even after the clouds have lifted, long-term challenges will face millions in Oklahoma; we ask that you prayerfully consider giving online. You can give $10 now by texting PDA to 20222.

ACT. Assemble Gift of the Heart kits. Get youth involved and experience this act of compassion for those in need through this tangible project. Contact the PDA Call Center at (866) 732-6121 to register your volunteer work team’s interest to help with the repair and rebuilding and for details on how to volunteer your team’s skills for efforts on the ground.

PRAY. Pray for individuals and communities affected by the storm. Consider using the prayer and worship resources available on line. Pray that the hope of Christ will be evident in our response.