The United Church of Christ has issued an appeal for its members and friends to support those affected by Hurricane Helene in the American Southeast. The Rev. Kent Siladi, Interim Director of Philanthropy in the national office, wrote yesterday:
“The impact of Hurricane Helene is widespread and devastating, as more than 100 people have been confirmed dead, over 2 million people are without power, and damages are estimated to be over $140 billion. We know of two UCC congregations on Florida’s Gulf Coast whose church buildings suffered significant flood damage, and another building that experienced structural damage from high winds. We continue to be in touch with our Southern, Southeast, and Florida Conferences as they work to contact local congregations and become aware of their needs.”
Church of the Holy Cross will collect relief gifts this coming Sunday (and afterward, if people continue to make donations). If you are using a check, please note “Hurricane Helene” on the memo line, or put it in an envelope marked “Hurricane Helene.”
If you would like to give online, our donation system does not have the ability to handle special gifts. Please use the UCC’s giving portal at:
https://support.ucc.org/hurricane-helene-relief
Thank you for your support in gifts and prayers for so many suffering so badly.
We are also receiving the annual Neighbors in Need offering on Sunday. Please use a separate check or envelope for those gifts. Mahalo nui loa!
Photo of 2018 floodwaters in Hilo by Eric Anderson.