Episcopal Relief and Development received a $500,000 gift from Christ Church Cathedral in Indianapolis, Indiana, to assist with Hurricane Katrina relief and recovery efforts. It is the largest church gift ever received in ERD’s history.

“The Vestry (board) did not hesitate in making this gift, as the need is so apparent,” said the Very Rev. Robert Giannini, Dean and Rector of Christ Church Cathedral. “Relief efforts are only the beginning. Rebuilding will be the real effort that will continue for years to come,” said Dean Giannini. He noted that the gift is, “meant to inspire everyone—both individuals and organizations—to make large gifts, giving as much as they can,” Dean Giannini said.

ERD responded immediately after the disaster and continues working with affected dioceses, such as Louisiana, Mississippi, and Central Gulf Coast to supply emergency relief such as food, shelter, medical supplies. ERD has also partnered with dioceses where large numbers of displaced people have relocated, such as West Texas, Alabama, Western Louisiana, and East Tennessee to provide food, housing and other critical aid to evacuees.  For more information on ERD’s response, please visit http://www.er-d.org/. 

An ERD assessment team including Robert W. Radtke, ERD President, and Peter Gudaitis, Executive Director of New York Disaster Interfaith Services (Diocese of New York), went to Baton Rouge days after the hurricane to help the Diocese of Louisiana plan their response.

“ERD is most grateful for the compassion expressed by so many people in response to the devastation cause by Hurricane Katrina,” said Radtke. “Along with our partners in dioceses across the country, we will rebuild the lives of the people most affected by this disaster,” he said.

“We are deeply moved by the incredible generosity of Christ Church Cathedral,” said the Most. Rev. Frank T. Griswold, Presiding Bishop and Primate of the Episcopal Church. “I am overwhelmed by the generosity of Episcopalians across the country as they desire to reach out in active care for those affected by this enormous tragedy,” said the Bishop Griswold.

To make a contribution to help people affected by Hurricane Katrina, please donate to the Hurricane Katrina Response Fund by credit card at www.er-d.org/ or by calling 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, c/o Hurricane Katrina Response Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.