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.
For months after the December 2007 flood event, two trained coordinators from the Rochester United Methodist Church, Susie Hawes and Brett DeMond (now the Pastor at the McCleary United Methodist Church), were 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.
