Earthquake Relief and Rebuilding

20150517_154136-7793761On April 25 a massive earthquake struck Nepal, affecting areas in which Prayer League missionaries and partner organizations have lived and worked for decades. The earthquake measured 7.8 on the Richter scale, and had its epicenter 50 miles northwest of Kathmandu. An estimated 8,800 people were killed and hundreds of thousands more were left homeless.

Our partner organizations were already on the ground when the earthquake struck and they reacted quickly. Thousands of households were given food, temporary shelter, water purification tablets and first-aid kits, through the quick and tireless work of the staff of these organizations. They worked together and in conjunction with the government to maximize their efforts. Our partners include United Mission to Nepal (UMN), International Nepal Fellowship (INF), Peace Rehabilitation Center (PRC), and Rescue Nepal Network (RNN). As a result of your generous gifts, we have contributed more than $30,000 to date through these partners and the local congregations with whom our missionaries are involved.

Organizations like these were in a good place to provide immediate help because of their presence and deep knowledge of the area. They were able to access difficult-to-reach villages and effectively avoid some of the schemes of those who may take economic advantage during chaotic relief efforts. They are in a good place to provide ongoing assistance, too. They are now completing the first phase of emergency relief and beginning the rebuilding phase. This is a critical part of any relief effort and should not be forgotten, once the immediate threat of loss of life has passed. Earthquake survivors needed immediate relief. Now they are in need of help to rebuild their homes, communities and livelihoods. Carmen Gronewold of PRC pointed out that the loss of livestock will severely affect the livelihood of thousands of families. The threat of further landslides during the upcoming monsoons will affect many more. The second phase of UMN’s relief effort is still being finalized, but will include support for human well-being, rebuilding homes, sustainable livelihoods, and disaster risk reduction. Our partner organizations live and operate in the most severely affected areas, and will continue in the recovery effort for years to come.

Please continue to pray for those affected by the earthquake and for those who assist in their recovery. Donations received for earthquake relief will continue to be distributed to our partners and local churches on the ground. If you want to give to one of our partner organizations specifically, please make your intentions known on your donation.

In May donations to missionary support funds paid for 46.9 percent of all support expenses; $40,110 was used from the General Fund to supplement missionary allowances and $44,437 was used from the Estate Fund to supplement benefit expenses for the month. Thank you for your ongoing support!

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