UCC expands appeal for relief efforts following Hurricane Milton

The United Church of Christ has extended the scope of its appeal for Hurricanes 2024 Relief Efforts to include support for those impacted by Hurricane Milton.  

Coming less than two weeks after Hurricane Helene devastated the region, Hurricane Milton moved across Florida carrying flooding, strong winds, and tornados that caused significant destruction in its path. Floridians have begun to survey Milton’s damage, while areas impacted by Helene — and some having been hit by multiple hurricanes — have begun extensive recovery efforts that face challenges like significant damage to roads and bridges.

In the wake of both storms, the Global H.O.P.E. team is working to connect people impacted by the storms with immediate resources and support long-term recovery efforts.

“I’ve been in contact with Conference staff in all the impacted areas, as well as many of the local churches to assess damage and connect them with resources,” said Katie Howe, UCC Minister for Disaster Response and Recovery, adding that some of these areas were additionally recovering from previous hurricanes.

Some funds from the appeal for hurricane relief have already gone toward providing needed community resources in hard-struck areas following Helene.

“A lot of people want to help right now, and many organizations are providing resources that people need right now,” said Howe. She compared the variety of organizations responding after these hurricanes as many parts of one body, referencing 1 Corinthians 12. The UCC acts as “part of the body” by coordinating response efforts with other organizations through Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD), Howe emphasized.

“While we offer some immediate funds, the crucial part we do is look further ahead to how resources can support communities in years to come after other organizations have left. The UCC will remain a presence in supporting communities through these funds — particularly when other resources are no longer available,” she said.

Expanding relief efforts

While the UCC initially launched an appeal on Sept. 30 to support those impacted by Hurricane Helene, the appeal has been expanded to include those impacted by Hurricane Milton.

The appeal invites people to engage through prayer, financial support, Crisis Cleanup phone banking, and Hygiene and Cleanup Bucket assembly – noting that UCC congregations can receive a matching grant through Global H.O.P.E. for assembling cleanup buckets.

Global H.O.P.E. grants are available for UCC conferences, associations, and congregations to provide services that address community needs in impacted areas.

The Rev. Kent Siladi, interim director of philanthropy, offered heartfelt gratitude to all who have already donated. 

“Your gift will make a direct impact, providing relief to those suffering, rebuilding homes, and helping restore communities,” he said. “Together, we can extend the support and hope so desperately needed during this time.

Find the appeal for Hurricanes 2024 Relief Efforts here.

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