Hurricane Sandy
Initial report
October 28 view of the storm by NASA
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) has been closely watching the path and trajectory of Hurricane Sandy. This storm is large and unpredictable and may indeed blow itself out unexpectedly. However, predictions are that heavy rains and unpredictable winds may result in power outages and flooding rain in a broad area between New York in the Northeast to South Carolina and into the coastal areas to the south.
Though landfall in the Northeast is not expected until Monday or Tuesday, PDA has contacted mid-councils potentially in the path of Hurricane Sandy, encouraging them to activate their disaster response plans, to prepare congregations for this event and to connect with the other voluntary organizations active in disaster. Mid-councils on the periphery of the storm may also experience unexpectedly high levels of flooding.
PDA stands ready to immediately respond with One Great Hour of Sharing funds or with members of the National Response Team to mid-councils that experience the effects of the storm. We ask that you lift up in prayer communities that have already been impacted by Hurricane Sandy and those that may be impacted.
How you can help
Give. Share your financial blessings by designating gifts to DR000148. Individuals may give through their local Presbyterian congregation, online, or by mailing a check to Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) P.O. Box 643700 Pittsburgh, PA 15264-3700. You can also text PDA to 20222 to donate $10.
Act.
- Sign up to receive PDA RIN (Rapid Information Network) emails to be aware of current responses and urgent needs you can share with your congregation.
- Following storms in the United States, families face the daunting task of beginning to clean up. Find out how to prepare a Gift of the Heart Kit clean up bucket for response to U.S. disasters, or download a bulletin insert to share with your congregation.
Pray. Our best response is prayer.
Holy God, You are our comfort and strength in times of sudden disaster, crisis, or chaos. By your Spirit, lift up those who have fallen, sustain those who work to rescue or rebuild, and surround us now with your grace and peace to face the challenges ahead. Grant us the assurance of your presence even in this time of uncertainty, and fill us with the hope of your new creation; through Jesus Christ, our rock and redeemer.
