The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is the not-for-profit global humanitarian aid organization of the United Methodist Church. UMCOR is working in more than 80 countries worldwide, including the United States. Our mission, grounded in the teachings of Jesus, is to alleviate human suffering—whether caused by war, conflict or natural disaster.
UMCOR partners with local organizations and survivors to rebuild their livelihoods, health and homes. In times of acute crisis they mobilize emergency supplies, fresh water, and temporary shelter to stricken areas, and then stay as long as it takes to implement long-term recovery. These workers are known all over the globe for their compassion, leadership, expertise and guidance in recovery efforts.
Within the Rochester United Methodist Church we have two trained coordinators, Brett DeMond and Susie Hawes. Months after the December 2007 flood event the Rochester United Methodist Church was able to assist flood survivors in both Thurston and Lewis Counties. Through the efforts of Brett and Susie, $64,000 in local donations was leveraged into over $500,000 in flood assistance from relief agencies and faith-based groups. In addition these two individuals also coordinated local volunteers and connected flood survivors with available resources.
Members of the Rochester United Methodist Church contributed to the relief effort through monetary donations, fund raisers, cleanup and rebuilding activities, and providing hot meals to both flood survivors and relief workers.
For up-to-date information on how you can help, contact Brett at DeMond at 482-3037 or Susie Hawes at 273-6070.
