Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) offers support for the people of Minneapolis, Minnesota and families affected by the tragedy of the Interstate 35W Bridge.
On Wednesday evening shortly after 6pm, a section of the Interstate 35W Bridge collapsed sending between 50-60 vehicles plummeting more than 60 feet into the Mississippi River. Presently, there are four confirmed deaths, 79 injuries, and 20-30 people remain missing. At a news conference held shortly after the collapse, Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty said “This is a catastrophe of historic proportions for Minnesota.” The rescue effort is now in the search and recovery phase.
Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Minnesota’s U.S. senators, Norm Coleman and Amy Klobuchar are expected to arrive in Minneapolis today to begin an investigation.
Richard Ohlsen, ERD’s Director of Domestic Disaster Preparedness and Response, is in communication with the Diocese of Minnesota to identify needs. Diocesan staff will be in touch with other voluntary disaster organizations and Episcopal Community Service agencies to determine the appropriate response to meet the needs of those impacted by the tragedy. ERD stands ready to provide support as needs are identified.
Please pray for the people of Minneapolis and the families of those touched by this unfortunate catastrophe.
Episcopal Relief and Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. An independent 501(c) (3) organization, ERD saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. ERD’s programs work toward achieving the Millennium Development Goals. We provide emergency assistance in times of crisis and rebuild after disasters. We enable people to climb out of poverty by offering long-term solutions in the areas of food security and health care, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
