Appeal: Severe Storms 2021 Including December Tornados, Hurricane Ida

December Tornados

A tornado outbreak Dec. 10-11 took the lives of at least 88 people across five states and caused damage and economic losses projected at $18 billion. The outbreak is already considered the costliest tornado event in U.S. history, according to AccuWeather. A few days later, severe weather caused loss of life and did further damage from Arizona to the Midwest.

There were a total of 34 confirmed tornados across eight states in the weekend outbreak, seven of which were rated EF3 strength by the National Weather Service. One of the 34 confirmed tornados had an approximate 227-mile-long-path of destruction spanning four states, with 200 miles of destruction in Kentucky alone.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the many communities impacted by this devastating series of storms,” said Lesli Remaly, UCC Minister for Disaster Response and Recovery. “We have been in touch with the Conference Disaster Coordinators in all affected states to extend our support.”

CDCs and Conference leaders are making initial contact calls with churches to learn of potential damages. Generous support of One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS) is enabling early response. Members of the UCC Emotional and Spiritual Care team are on standby. VOAD partners are meeting daily to coordinate clean up efforts. 

Cash is the best way to contribute to recovery from the December tornados. Designate Severe Storms 2021 – December Tornados. Donate now!

Another way to help: Assemble CWS Kits and Cleanup Buckets. UCC offers $250 matching grants.

Hurricane Ida

Earlier in 2021, more than 20 U.S. states from the South to the Northeast were impacted by a single disaster: Hurricane Ida and its sizeable remnants, which left catastrophic water and wind damage, including significant power outages. Recovery needs, both short- and long-term, are massive, with damage estimates in the billions of dollars.

What’s the best way to help now? Send money. UCC Disaster Response and Recovery Minister Lesli Remaly said of Hurricane Ida, “For a storm this size, money makes good sense as we know long-term recovery and rebuilding will be necessary.”

This also would be a great time for churches to assemble CWS Emergency Clean-Up Buckets and School and Hygiene Kits. CWS stocks Kits for disasters just like Ida. Get full specifications, and apply for a $250 UCC Kits Matching Grant to make your contribution go even farther!

Click here to donate online. One can also mail a check made payable to the United Church of Christ PO BOX 71957 Cleveland, OH 44194. Please be sure to note “2021 Severe Storms” on your check in the memo section, or in an attached letter.