Episcopal Relief and Development was recognized before the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee for its support of an innovative program to teach HIV/AIDS prevention and pastoral care to seminarians in Africa.

In a recent hearing, Dr. Peter Okaalet, African Director of Medical Assistance Programs (MAP) International, testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on the role of faith-based organizations in the fight against HIV and AIDS. At the hearing, Dr. Okaalet commended ERD's work, saying, "Four Anglican seminaries in Kenya, Uganda, Zambia, and South Africa have accepted the challenge and will integrate HIV/AIDS courses into their curriculum."

This curriculum offers hope to communities crippled by the HIV/AIDS pandemic. It educates seminarians about the illness and its transmission, and teaches them how to deliver vital emotional and spiritual support to their local congregations. With this curriculum, future clergy and lay leaders will be equipped to supply life-saving information, help eliminate the cultural stigma of the disease, and provide pastoral care for those dying from AIDS, as well as care for their families and orphaned children.

Sandra Swan, Executive Director of Episcopal Relief and Development, elaborated further on this point. "ERD is committed to the fight against a disease that is devastating communities worldwide," said Ms. Swan. "We see the ultimate goal of the curriculum as providing future clergy with the tools necessary to educate their communities about HIV/AIDS prevention and to distribute quality care to those both suffering from the disease and affected by it."

Episcopal Relief and Development is the collective response of Episcopalians to help people in need. Its programs of emergency relief, rehabilitation, and long-term development are specifically designed to strengthen local communities in the United States and around the world.
 

As a direct response to September 11 and its aftermath, Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) and the Office of Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations have launched a joint project, the Interfaith Education Initiative (IEI).

The mission of the Initiative is to promote better understanding within the Episcopal Church of the world's religious diversity, complexity, and interconnectedness. IEI will develop a curriculum and provide educational resources that will further interfaith appreciation and cross-cultural dialogue. Episcopal Relief and Development is funding the Interfaith Education Initiative. Seminars and workshops will begin in the Spring.

The Executive Council of the Episcopal Church has also recognized the importance of the Initiative. In a statement released after its October 2001 meeting, the Council reinforced its commitment to IEI, which is designed to help the Episcopal Church respond to the call for "local inter-faith dialogues among peoples of the three Abrahamic faiths."

Oversight is being provided by the Rt. Rev. Christopher Epting (Presiding Bishop's Deputy for Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations), Mary Becchi (ERD Deputy Director of Program and Program Planning), and an Advisory Committee of 10 Episcopalians with expertise in education, theology or interfaith relations.

"The Presiding Bishop could not have been more clear, as we discussed my coming on board as his Deputy for Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations, that he wanted our interfaith work to be a high priority," observes Bishop Epting. "The global situation and changing demographics in this country make understanding the world's major religions no longer a matter of mere curiosity but a real necessity."

The Interfaith Education Initiative is a prime example of Episcopal Relief and Development's commitment to addressing the root causes of suffering around the world. As Ms. Becchi of ERD explains, "Dialogue and understanding are the preconditions for global peace and development. In awakening the Episcopal Church to the larger world*its diversity and complexity*this process will help us all learn about the interconnectedness of all societies. From our perspective, this is necessary: an engaged Church committed to our mission and work."

With an extensive background in Anglican-Muslim Relations, Lucinda Allen Mosher, Th.D., has been appointed as the Interfaith Education Officer to coordinate the project. Dr. Mosher has taught World Religions in secondary school, seminary and university settings. A frequent lecturer on interfaith matters, Dr. Mosher is a long-time participant in formal Jewish-Christian-Muslim dialogue. Questions regarding the Interfaith Education Initiative should be directed to Dr. Mosher at interfaith@episcopalchurch.org or (800) 334-7626 ext. 6312.

Episcopal Relief and Development is the collective response of Episcopalians to help people in need. Its programs of emergency relief, rehabilitation, and long-term development specifically designed to strengthen local communities in the United States and around the world.

Grant Promotes Interfaith Understanding

A $25,000 grant was given to the Diocese of New York for the Episcopal-Muslim Relations Committee of the Ecumenical and Interfaith Commission following September 11. The committee works to foster understanding with Muslim communities, combat defamation, promote justice, and raise awareness of Islam. The funds will mainly be used for communications and correspondence materials, in addition to hospitality events between Episcopal and Muslim communities.

Supporting Ministry of Chaplains And Trauma Workers in New York

A $30,000 grant was awarded to the Diocese of New York for Episcopal chaplains and trauma workers who assisted in rescue and recovery operations following the tragic events on September 11. The grant will help certify and train other chaplains to continue their ministry at Ground Zero and help support chaplains who served at the city's temporary mortuary located at the site.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is pleased to announce that The Most Rev. Frank T. Griswold, Presiding Bishop and Primate of the Episcopal Church, has appointed The Rt. Rev. Harry Brown Bainbridge III as the new Chairman of its Board of Directors. Bishop Bainbridge, Bishop of Idaho, has served as an ERD Board member since 2001. He succeeds the late Rt. Rev. Robert G. Tharp who served as Chairman of ERD’s Board until his death in May of this year.

Bishop Bainbridge is the twelfth Bishop of Idaho and has served congregations in the Dioceses of Tennessee, Western Louisiana, and Easton. He also served as Chaplain and taught religion at the Sewanee Academy.

"Bishop Bainbridge will bring his experience as a Board member over these last years, clarity about the vision of what ERD can be, and, most important, a passionate commitment to ERD’s work," said Bishop Griswold.

"We look forward to working with Bishop Bainbridge to move ERD’s vision forward and continue our efforts helping people worldwide on behalf of the Episcopal Church," said Sandra Swan, President of ERD.

"This is an exiting time for ERD as we shift from being an agency that responds to problems and emergencies in the world, to being a partner with others in promoting sustainable development, addressing the root causes of poverty, health and other problems that people experience," Bishop Bainbridge said.

"I look forward to working with the Management team, the Board, and the Church as we continue to respond to the needs of the world, reaching out as the hands and heart of Jesus," he added.

Episcopal Relief and Development is a compassionate response of the Episcopal Church to human suffering in the world. Episcopal Relief and Development provides emergency assistance in times of disaster, rebuilds devastated communities after the immediate crisis is over, and offers long-term solutions to help people sustain safer, healthier, and more productive lives.

A participant in Episcopal Relief and Development's farming program in Uganda stands at a barn with a member of the Planning, Rehabilitation and Development department, The Most Rev. Frank T. Griswold, Presiding Bishop and Primate of the Episcopal Church, and his wife Phoebe, The Most Rev. Livingstone Nkoyoyo, Archbishop of Uganda, and Janette O'Neill of ERD.

Janette O'Neill, Senior Program Advisor for Episcopal Relief and Development, recently returned from visiting ERD's farming projects in Uganda. "I saw families whose lives have been transformed since I first met them eighteen months ago," said O'Neill. "I visited families who were barely making a living and are now commercial farmers."

In Bunyoro-Kitara, O'Neill visited the family of Margaret and Samuel. With the help of ERD, their lives have changed dramatically.

"We were plowing half an acre of land by hand and living in a one room hut with our two children," said Margaret. "After receiving two oxen, we now plow three acres of maize and we were able to build a three room brick house," she said. "Next year, we hope to plow five acres so we can afford to send our children to a better school in town."

"ERD is making a difference to people who were completely consumed with struggling to survive. Now their lives are filled with promise, potential, and hope for a future," said O'Neill. "Families are planning, dreaming, and building the house they never thought they'd have. Because of our work here, families are giving their children an education so they can have a world of choices."

By equipping people with crops, animals, and training, ERD is providing new opportunities to rural communities in Uganda.

Episcopal Relief and Development, the premier development agency of the Episcopal Church, helps people break out of poverty by providing farmers with tools and training to help them earn an income and support their families. ERD is providing clean drinking water, improving sanitation, and protecting the environment for Ugandan communities. ERD is giving families healthy animals and seeds to grow better crops.

ERD has a history of working with churches in Africa and serves as an effective, reliable, and vital ministry of the Episcopal Church in developing communities around the world. ERD has partnered with the Church of Uganda's Planning, Development and Rehabilitation department.

Episcopal Relief and Development is a compassionate response of the Episcopal Church to human suffering in the world. Episcopal Relief and Development provides emergency assistance in times of disaster, rebuilds devastated communities after the immediate crisis is over, and offers long-term solutions to help people sustain safer, healthier, and more productive lives.
 

March 22 marks World Water Day. More than 1.6 million children die each year from illnesses caused by drinking contaminated water. Every day, 25,000 people die from preventable diseases such as cholera and typhoid after drinking unsafe water.

Episcopal Relief and Development is building better water systems and teaching hygiene practices in countries such as Nicaragua, Tanzania, El Salvador, and the Philippines. ERD is working to provide clean drinking water to children and their families in rural communities plagued with poor sanitation, unhealthy hygiene, and polluted water sources.

In Tanzania, 36% of the population falls below the poverty line. Almost 44% of Tanzanian households still use unsafe drinking water and have limited access to health care. ERD is training community health workers and traditional birth attendants from four villages in Kondoa and Zanzibar. The training covers sanitation, nutrition, reproductive health, and care for children under five. The training helps improve the overall health of each community so people can live longer lives.

Nicaragua is the second poorest country in the Western hemisphere. Disease, poor health care systems, and contaminated water systems are widespread. In four regions in the country, ERD is installing latrines and water wells and teaching healthy hygiene methods. The program works with local committees in the villages of El Sauce, Ciudad Dario, Camoapa, and Bijagua to construct and install wells, wash stations, and latrines.

"Through our programs, we provide families with clean drinking water in Central America, Africa, and Asia," said Sandra Swan, ERD President.

Episcopal Relief and Development is an effective, reliable, and vital ministry of the Episcopal Church in communities around the world. Episcopal Relief and Development provides emergency assistance in times of disaster, rebuilds devastated communities after the immediate crisis is over, and offers long-term solutions to help people sustain safer, healthier, and more productive lives.
 

Belizean families received keys to their new homes on March 13, 2004 in a ceremony on Caye Caulker Island. A total of 21 new, solid, and sturdy homes with indoor plumbing and water were built for homeless families. Hurricane Keith hit Belize in October 2000 totally destroying over 65% of the structures on the island.
The four year housing program on Caye Caulker Island was a joint partnership between Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD), the Anglican Diocese of Belize, the Caye Caulker Village Council, and the Belizean government.

Over a hundred people attended the ceremony. Sandra Swan, ERD President, gave keys to the new homeowners. Many dignitaries made speeches including the Rt. Rev. Sylvestre Romero, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Belize, and the Hon. Said Musa, Prime Minister of Belize and Minister of National Development.

"In my term as bishop, ERD has always been there to help us respond when people are suffering," said Bishop Romero. "The uniqueness of the Anglican Church is that it's not just about preaching to the spirit, but doing the work of the gospel. The Church is all of us working together to rebuild and be there when people are in need," he said.

The Hon. Said Musa said, "The Anglican Church of Belize has done this work with the help of our Anglican brothers and sisters. Together, the partnership with the Church of Belize, Episcopal Relief and Development, and the government, we are able to build homes for very poor families."

Maguerita Gonore, a single mother of six children, received a new home. "Hurricane Keith happened on my birthday when I was pregnant with my son who is now three. We couldn't stay in our home. Everything was destroyed," said Maguerita. "I was one of the first applicants for the [housing] program. Now, I have a three bedroom home for my six children. I know what it is not to have a home. So it's a good feeling to know that you have something of your own," she stated.

ERD partnered with the Church of Belize and the Belizean government to build the homes, and coordinate volunteer work teams, hire workers, and participating families for the rebuilding program. The government provided land, electricity, roads, and space for a new Anglican Church building. ERD strengthened the local economy by providing job training and micro-credit opportunities to families.

Imagine living without a place to call home. Today, over 17 million people live as refugees and internally displaced people in communities around the world. Episcopal Relief and Development is committed to their needs and provides food, shelter, and other life-saving supplies. ERD partners with Anglican and ecumenical organizations in countries such as the Sudan, Liberia, Haiti, and other areas where natural disasters and war have forced people to flee their homes. Long-term development programs help refugees rebuild their lives and provide them with opportunities to build a future for themselves and their children.

"Episcopal Relief and Development was founded to assist refugees fleeing Europe during World War II," said Sandra Swan, ERD President.

"Today, through our emergency relief program, we continue to help people who are forced out of their homes and communities."

Most recently, ERD has partnered with the Episcopal Church of Sudan to assess the needs of people caught in increasing violence and acts on genocide in and around the Darfur region. One million people have fled fighting in the area. A disaster-relief team will deliver food and other critical supplies to vulnerable people living in the region. ERD will continue to work with displaced families and provide long-term development assistance.

Episcopal Relief and Development saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.

Episcopal Relief and Development is pleased to announce that the Rt. Rev. William D. Persell, Bishop of Chicago, has joined its Board of Directors.

Bishop Persell is the eleventh Bishop of Chicago and has served congregations in California and New York. While serving as rector at St. John's Church in Los Angeles for nine years, he was an advocate for Asian and Hispanic ministries and served as vice president of the black clergy association of Los Angeles. Bishop Persell was rector of St. Ann and the Holy Trinity in New York for nine years prior to becoming dean of Trinity Cathedral in Cleveland, Ohio. He is currently a member of the Standing Commission on Ecumenical Relations for ECUSA.

"Bishop Persell will add his invaluable expertise and commitment to serving communities in need," said Sandra Swan, ERD President. "As ERD continues to minister to people suffering, Bishop Persell is another strong advocate for our ministry."

"Bill is a person of compassion who understands the issues faced by those whom ERD seeks to help around the world,"said the Rt. Rev. Harry Bainbridge, Bishop of Idaho and Chair of ERD's Board. "His wisdom so freely shared will be a strong ingredient in furthering ERD's work."

Episcopal Relief and Development saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.
 

The statistics on Malaria are alarming. The disease is the leading killer of children in Africa under the age of five. Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest rate of infection in the world. At least one million people in the region die each year.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) has initiated a new Malaria program to save lives and provide communities with long-term solutions to control and combat the disease.

ERD's new program provides a comprehensive, three-pronged approach: educating communities, distributing insecticide-treated nets, and supplying effective drug therapy. The program trains community health workers on prevention techniques. Community members, particularly mothers, are taught to identify symptoms of malaria which can often cause death within days if left untreated. Health workers distribute insecticide-treated nets and teach people how to properly use the nets to prevent deadly mosquito attacks at night. Insecticide-treated nets are the single most preventative measure to help people become healthier and more productive. Anti-malaria drugs, which work in support of the education, are distributed through community health posts, hospitals, and clinics.

The beginning phase of ERD's Malaria program is starting in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia-two countries where Malaria is endemic. "Initially, we have targeted two communities in Zambia, Luapula and Kapoto, outside Kitwe, and the Katanga region in the Congo,"said Janette O'Neill, ERD Program Director of Africa. "We are partnering with the Anglican Church in the Congo and Zambia where the Church has the capacity to effectively reach the poorest and most affected rural and urban regions," said O'Neill.

Approximately 10 million people are infected with Malaria in the Congo. It is the primary cause of death in the country. ERD is working with regions within the Diocese of Katanga which serves almost nine million people. In Zambia, about 50,000 die annually from Malaria; the disease is the cause of death for 40% of children under five years old who die each year.

"We can make a significant impact on controlling the spread of Malaria and diminishing the growing rate of infection, particularly among pregnant women and children under five. We know this program will make a long-lasting difference throughout communities beginning in the Congo and Zambia," said Sandra Swan, ERD President.

Episcopal Relief and Development saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.
 

Episcopal Relief and Development has named Kurt DelBene to its Board of Directors. DelBene is Vice President of the Office Server Group of Microsoft Office System.

DelBene has a long career working in the technology industry. He has served in several roles in Microsoft's product development teams, largely in the information worker productivity and collaboration areas. Prior to joining Microsoft in 1992, DelBene was a management consultant with McKinsey & Company where he focused on business strategy for technology companies. He also worked as a software developer and systems engineer for AT&T Bell Laboratories.

"Kurt brings a strong business background to ERD's board, along with a deep sense of the needs of sick and poor people," said the Rt. Rev. Harry Bainbridge, Bishop of Idaho and Chair of the ERD Board. "The Church is blessed to have his gifts offered to further the mission of ERD."

DelBene is an active member of St. Mark's Cathedral in Seattle, Washington, where he has served as a Senior Warden and member of the Cathedral's Church in the World Coordinating Committee.

"Kurt's dedication to the Church and enthusiasm to further ERD's work will be an asset to our board," said Sandra Swan, ERD President. "He is a leader who can lend his expertise to help strengthen ERD's work lifting families out of poverty."

Episcopal Relief and Development saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.

Five Episcopalian women and one Episcopal Relief and Development staff member have left for a 12-day journey to visit ERD-supported HIV/AIDS programs in Namibia and South Africa.

Two-thirds of the 40 million people infected with the disease are in sub-Saharan Africa. In South Africa, over five million children and adults are living with HIV/AIDS. Nearly 250,000 people of Namibia's total population of 1.8 million are infected with the disease.

Participants will spend time in communities where ERD's programs are saving lives and share their reflections through words and pictures during their trip. The group will visit projects in the Dioceses of Namibia and Cape Town including a feeding center for children orphaned by the disease and a development project, which supports HIV-positive women in a quilting cooperative.

"This unique pilgrimage provides an opportunity for five women in dioceses from the east and west coast to see firsthand the important ministry and work of ERD," said Brian Sellers-Petersen, ERD Director of West Coast Operations. "ERD helps people suffering from the disease and supports the families and children HIV/AIDS leaves behind." Sellers-Petersen is accompanying the group.

Episcopal Relief and Development saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.
 

Accessing information about Episcopal Relief and Development and giving to support ERD's programs worldwide just got one click easier. ERD's newly re-launched website, http://www.er-d.org/, is a convenient resource with simple, streamlined navigation, expanded program descriptions, and much more. An online version of the newly released Gifts for Life Holiday catalog is among several new features on the site.

The catalog is highlighted in the Ways to Give section. It offers special ways to give gifts in honor of loved ones, friends, and colleagues that benefit children and families worldwide. Selections in the catalog include gifts such as nutritious food, care for children and families suffering with HIV/AIDS, and medicines.

"Our website provides an exciting way for everyone to connect to ERD," said Sandra Swan, ERD President. "Through our online Gifts for Life catalog, we offer several ways to immediately partner with ERD to help people in need," said Swan.

The site is a resourceful tool with five sections filled with more program information, news updates, along with pictures and stories of ERD's work throughout the world.

Episcopal Relief and Development saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.

Sandra Swan, president of Episcopal Relief and Development, will retire from that post late next spring, announced the Rt. Rev. Harry Bainbridge, chairman of ERD’s Board of Directors. “We haven’t set a firm date,” said Bishop Bainbridge, “because Sandra has graciously agreed to remain in place until the new president is on board.”

Bishop Bainbridge made the announcement November 3 to the Episcopal Church’s Executive Council meeting in Boise, Idaho.

Over the past six years, Swan helped increase the agency’s program effectiveness and outreach, in addition to developing key program partnerships and relationships in and outside of the Episcopal Church.

Swan joined the organization, then called The Presiding Bishop’s Fund for World Relief, in 1999. Episcopal Relief and Development changed its name the following year, to reflect its affiliation with the Episcopal Church and to highlight its work in long-term economic and social development programs.

During Swan’s tenure, ERD has grown significantly in both size and capability with programs extending throughout Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East. ERD’s programs for emergency relief following natural or civil disasters, and long-term development programs focusing on food security and primary health, including HIV/AIDS and malaria, have achieved recognition for careful management and building local capacity.

One of many notable accomplishments is the completion of Faith, Hope and Joy community in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, after the devastation of Hurricane Mitch. In a partnership with the Diocese of Honduras, Episcopal Relief and Development built over 225 homes, a health clinic, school, community center and a church with the assistance of 2,000 Episcopal volunteers. Since then, ERD has created other integrated community development programs in places such as Kosovo, Turkey, Belize, and El Salvador.

“I remember first meeting Sandra at the dedication of Faith, Hope, and Joy which saved and changed so many lives,” said the Rt. Rev. Lloyd Allen, Bishop of Honduras. “The Episcopal Diocese of Honduras is grateful to Sandra for her time, dedication, and tangible support to the diocese. Sandra and ERD have helped the Honduran people as we’ve struggled to overcome many difficulties,” said Bishop Allen. “She has played an important role in our lives and we wish her well.”

Under Swan’s leadership, the agency focused on programs that helped to build the capacity of local communities to become self-sufficient. For example, a joint partnership between Episcopal Relief and Development and the Diocese of Cape Town prompted the establishment of H.O.P.E. Africa project in South Africa. Now a separate agency, H.O.P.E. Africa is a social and economic program of the diocese which works with disadvantaged communities to identify their needs.

Hailed as “a ministry of the whole church for the whole world,” Episcopal Relief and Development links the person in the pew with the needs of people around the world. “I’m most proud,” stated Swan, “that we have worked with Anglican Churches around the world, partnering with them to help people who are suffering, regardless of their religious, ethnic or cultural affiliation.”

“ERD is in a wonderful place right now,” she said. “The Board of Directors and management are working together extremely well to move the organization to new levels of effectiveness. I am comfortable that I leave ERD strong and vital.”

Bishop Bainbridge pointed out that Swan has been tireless in her work on behalf of ERD. “Sandra constantly held before us a vision for a relevant, effective ERD that has guided us during the past six years. In addition, she also propelled ERD into a more active role in the international relief and development field, serving on the Boards of Directors of Church World Service and InterAction.”

ERD’s Board of Directors has formed a Search Committee, and will welcome suggestions of candidates for the post of president.

Episcopal Relief and Development, an independent 501©3 organization, saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.

Episcopal Relief and Development celebrates World AIDS Day 2004. Over 32 million people are living with HIV/AIDS and the disease threatens families and communities around the world.

“HIV/AIDS is so complex and devastates entire communities,” said Janette O’Neill, ERD’s Program Director of Africa. “ERD’s programs care for people dying from HIV/AIDS and support those still living with the disease,” said O’Neill. “We help whole communities come together to nurture the growing number of orphans. We make sure they are fed, clothed, educated, and valued as individuals.”

ERD is working in nine of the 11 Anglican provinces in Africa in areas hardest hit by HIV/AIDS such as Southern Africa, Rwanda, Burundi, and West Africa. ERD’s comprehensive programs provide prevention education, home-based care for affected families, and support children orphaned by HIV/AIDS.

Episcopal Relief and Development, an independent 501(c)3 organization, saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.
 

Today, Episcopal Relief and Development commemorates International Human Rights Day. Sakena Yacoobi, educator and founder of the Afghan Institute of Learning, will be honored at the United Nations with the Women’s Rights Prize of the Peter Gruber Foundation.

Episcopal Relief and Development supported Yacoobi’s organization that works with displaced Afghan women and girls in Pakistan. ERD’s assistance empowered refugee women and children to improve their lives through education and health services. Working in partnership with ERD, the Institute expanded its services to reach over 300,000 Afghans using programs which included teacher training, academic classes, and mobile health clinics.

ERD helped provide innovative skills training workshops to teach women how to earn and income and protect their human rights. Health education and clinical services were given to women and children.

“We are proud of the ERD’s partnership with Sakena, which changed the lives of thousands of Afghan women and girls,” said Sandra Swan, ERD President. “She and the Afghan Institute of Learning exemplify one example of our successful work to reach vulnerable people in need.”

Episcopal Relief and Development saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.
 

A massive mudslide killed ten people in the California coastal community of La Conchita, a result of deadly storms that caused millions of dollars of damage to homes and roads throughout the West. Of the 150 homes in the community, fifteen were destroyed in the mudslide and at least sixteen damaged. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger visited La Conchita, and declared a state of emergency.

Episcopal Relief and Development is in contact with the local Diocese. We will continue to monitor the situation and stand ready to respond and provide emergency assistance as needed. Please continue to pray for families affected by the disaster.

Episcopal Relief and Development has launched a special “Crisis Center” section on its website, www.er-d.org/tsunami, following the tsunamis in South Asia. This section features program updates and useful resources such as reflections, bulletin inserts, sermons, etc.

“ERD is actively working in South Asia to provide initial emergency relief and staff is currently in affected countries evaluating our long-term response,” said Sandra Swan, ERD President. “Our site can be used to get the latest information about our work and find out how the overwhelming generosity from Episcopalians is helping rebuild lives.”

One special section, “Stories from the Field,” features weekly reports and photographs from ERD staff on a month-long assessment trip visiting devastated countries in South Asia. The objective of the trip is to work with local partners to identify needs and develop a long-term rebuilding program. In the first story posted, Daniel Conway, Program Associate, provides reflections and images from devastated regions in Thailand.

Episcopal Relief and Development, an independent 501 ©3 organization, saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.

Torrential rains in Venezuela have caused flooding and landslides, leaving at least 16 dead and thousands more homeless. Though the rains turned to a drizzle on Thursday, death toll rose to 15 in Venezuela and one in Colombia. Affected areas include the capital of Caracas, the Caracas suburb of Los Teques, and the north-central state of Carabobo. About 3,700 people have had their homes destroyed in the floods since Tuesday. Thousands more were forced to flee -- some moving into emergency shelters, others taking refuge with family or friends.

Episcopal Relief and Development is in contact with the Diocese of Venezuela, who is responding and will be receiving an emergency grant. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide assistance as needed. Please pray for the families affected by this tragic disaster.

Episcopal Relief and Development staff recently visited the Salvadorian community of Lourdes, a site where ERD built houses in 1987, and we are pleased to find that the town has been thriving and growing. The Presiding Bishop’s Fund, which later changed its name to Episcopal Relief and Development, funded the construction of about 15 houses in Lourdes in 1987 after an earthquake devastated El Salvador in October 1986. Lourdes is located about 15km west of the country’s capital, San Salvador, and has retained its ties to US Episcopal churches to this day.

The Diocese of New Jersey and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mobile, AL are funding the construction of a new school building at San Mateo church, in Lourdes, El Salvador. These two groups have been connected to El Salvador for some time. The Diocese of New Jersey has a companion relationship with the Diocese of El Salvador, and St. Paul’s has sent groups of volunteers to El Salvador through ERD. The parish of San Mateo has for a number of years operated an elementary school at the church in a small building beside the chapel. The houses ERD built decades ago are a short distance from this church compound, and some of the residents are members of San Mateo Church. Revenue generated from the new school’s attendance fees will help set San Mateo on the track towards self-sufficiency and sustainability.

The first phase of the school building included the construction of two classrooms and boys and girls student bathrooms. The next phase will include the construction of two additional classrooms, renovation of the existing school building, and purchase of furniture for the new classrooms. The new classrooms will allow the school to offer additional grades of study. ERD provided funding for construction oversight and coordination. All other costs have been provided by St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Mobile, AL and the Diocese of New Jersey.

You can volunteer to help ERD rebuild El Salvador. Visit our volunteering page to find our how you can form a volunteer group to travel to El Salvador and work in one of the communities ERD is building.

Today, Episcopal Relief and Development commemorates International Women’s Day 2005. The day celebrates the collective achievements and triumphs of women and recognizes the challenges they face worldwide.

Women representing churches and dioceses within the Anglican Communion are delegates at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in New York City. Meetings for the Commission began February 28 and continue until March 11 and promote women’s rights in political, economic, social, civic, and educational fields.

“We are committed to helping women work together and find their own solutions,” said Claudette Kigeme, a delegate from Burundi. In partnership with the Episcopal Church of Burundi, ERD recently began and HIV/AIDS and malaria program. “Working as one church, we are addressing issues, such as poverty and HIV/AIDS, which women in Burundi face on a daily basis.” (Read more about ERD's work in Burundi.)

ERD’s partnerships are empowering women in communities around the world, including Liberia, El Salvador, South Africa, and Afghanistan. “Working throughout the Anglican Communion, we help women build better lives for themselves and their families,” said Sandra Swan, ERD President. ERD’s programs give women skills and training, protect them from deadly diseases such as HIV/AIDS and malaria, and create opportunities to support their families.

Episcopal Relief and Development saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of disaster. When the immediate crisis is over, we rebuild devastated communities and offer long-term solutions in the areas of food security, health care, and HIV/AIDS.
 

Women from countries throughout the Anglican Communion have been meeting as part of the 49th Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW). Forty-one delegates from 27 provinces in the Anglican Communion gathered beginning February 28 to learn, advocate, and exchange with other women from around the world.

Claudette Kigeme, a Mothers’ Union provincial worker, attended the UNCSW as a delegate from Burundi. “I was born in a poor country where people lack basic needs. After attending the meetings, I can share with my country that I have raised the voice of women in my community,” said Kigeme. “Their voices were heard at the UN and it strengthened my commitment to the work I do with the Church. From this conference, we are working in partnership to move from commitment to action,” she said.

Episcopal Relief and Development’s partnership with the Episcopal Church of Burundi supports an HIV/AIDS and malaria program. “HIV/AIDS and malaria are the top two leading causes of death in Burundi,” said Desiderata Niragira, also a delegate from Burundi who attended the UNCSW. Niragira works as a trainer for the Mothers’ Union Literacy and Development Program. “We are most grateful and thankful to Episcopal Relief and Development for what they are doing to help people affected by these diseases, which disproportionately affect women,” said Niragira.

The Church of Burundi has established an HIV/AIDS department in each diocese. “A micro-credit program brings people together to earn money for themselves, their families, and their communities while helping them learn capacity building,” said Niragira.

ERD’s malaria program will be incorporated in dioceses throughout Burundi. “Our main aim is to prevent malaria by teaching people how to properly clean around their homes and giving them mosquito nets which many are unable to afford,” said Kigeme.

“In Burundi, we have a saying, ‘A great friend, is a friend in need.’ ERD has made a commitment and is working with us,” said Kigeme. “The Church never leaves the community but instead always responds to its issues. With ERD, we are now able to help more people who really need it. It is a great thing when you have something to give people struggling in poverty.”

Photojournalist Carol Barnwell traveled in July 2004 with Episcopal Relief and Development to Namibia and South Africa to document the Ubuntu Africa Pilgrimage. Her photo exhibit is on display in the Nave of Saint Mark’s Cathedral, 1245 Tenth Avenue East, Seattle, Washington. The 25+ photos have been re-hung to allow the photos to companion the Saint Mark’s Stations of the Cross during this Holy Season of Lent until Easter Sunday. The Cathedral is open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. unless there is an evening event. There are resources for walking the stations at the back of the Nave and a related concert at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 20th (Palm Sunday).

The following is from Carol’s “Artists Statement” that is posted at the beginning of the exhibit/stations. “I look for similarities that I share with those in far away places – I found the mothers who worry about their children and their neighbors. I found children anxious to be noticed, children who just wanted to play. I marveled at the stone cottages and the thatched roofs. I embraced the opportunity to spend the night in the townships of South Africa and revelled in the invitation to dine on millet porridge and sorghum brew in a small round hut made of clay bricks. Among the devastation brought by AIDS, I found joy and mischief, wonder and query.”

The Stations of the Cross are a series of fourteen pictures or carvings portraying incidents in Christ's journey from his condemnation by Pilate to his being laid in the tomb. They are arranged around the inside walls of churches and chapels, but are also to be found in other settings such as along wooded paths near shrines or as a part of public processions on our city streets. In the devotion of the Stations, an individual or group passes from station to station reciting prayers and meditating on each incident, or at least on the Passion of Christ in general. It is thought that the Stations originated as a way that those unable to travel might follow the pilgrimage route in Jerusalem, the "Via Dolorosa."

During the Season of Easter the Ubuntu Africa photographs will be exhibited in the Chapel of Saint Thomas Parish, 8398 NE 12th Street, Medina, Washington.

The Arts are an integral part of the life of the Cathedral. The Arts at Saint Mark's continues the longstanding tradition of excellence established by Cathedral Associates. Now a ministry of Saint Mark's Cathedral, its mission is to celebrate the creative human spirit by presenting outstanding musical, dramatic, literary and artistic events, and other programs of cultural significance, in the sacred spaces of Saint Mark's Cathedral. For more information on the Arts at St. Mark’s, visit http:/www.saintmarks.org/ or call 206-323-0300.

As we approach annual Africa Malaria Day on April 25th, it is important for us to recognize the malaria epidemic as a global concern. Each year 300-500 million cases of malaria occur – 90% of them in Sub-Saharan Africa. Malaria kills vulnerable children in Sub-Saharan Africa at the alarming rate of 3,000 each day despite the fact that it is a curable and preventable disease.

Episcopal Relief and Development’s malaria programs incorporate preventative measures such as insecticide treated bed nets, effective drug therapy and education, which greatly reduces the prevalence of the disease. ERD’s programs are currently active in Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Namibia and Zambia and will expand to other countries of Sub-Saharan Africa.

ERD launched a new section on its website, www.er-d.org/malaria, to serve as a hub for news and updates about programs fighting malaria. The section features program updates and useful resources such as a photo gallery, educational links, press releases, and suggestions for how to raise awareness about Africa’s silent killer.

“The burden of malaria particularly in the countries of Angola, Mozambique and northern Namibia is so great that unless more resources are put into malaria control there can be no meaningful progress towards reducing poverty in these countries,” said Janette O’Neill, ERD’s Program Director of Africa, who recently attended The Church of the Province of Southern Africa’s planning meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa. “The church is galvanized to raising resources both from within and turning the attention of the donor community to this urgent problem.” Representatives from dioceses across Southern Africa participated in presentations and discussions on poverty, HIV/AIDS, malaria and education. “The Church has now been presented with a great platform to become meaningful partners for development,” said Archbishop Njongonkulu Ndungane in a closing statement for the conference.

Episcopal Relief and Development commemorates World Health Day 2005 today, April 7, 2005. ERD’s health care programs help children and families live better lives. We provide education and training on preventable illnesses and proper sanitation practices and build clean water systems so communities around the world can have safe and clean water supplies.

“ERD helps fight preventable diseases and provides treatment and care for the sick in communities in Latin America, Africa and Asia,” said Sandra Swan, ERD President.

In El Salvador, ERD's primary health program is giving care to people through health education, treatment and disease control and prevention in community-based clinics. New medical clinics are being constructed, and several are already receiving patients and dispensing free medication. We provide smokeless cook stoves for families and builds latrines which reduce the incidence of respiratory infections and diseases such as hepatitis, dysentery and e-coli.

In sub-Saharan Africa, our malaria program works with communities to distribute insecticide-treated nets, supply effective drug therapy, spray chemicals for mosquito-control and educate people on how to reduce the risk for contracting the disease.

ERD supports several health care programs in South Africa including the Itipini Health Clinic in the Diocese of St. John's. The Itipini clinic provides HIV/AIDS health care for a marginalized community. The clinic staff and volunteers provide voluntary counseling and testing and mentors support people after they have been tested. Nurses treat opportunistic diseases, offer vitamins and antibiotics and provide food to individuals infected with the disease.

Daniel Conway, ERD Program Associate, recently returned from Afghanistan, where ERD is builidng a health clinic in Wardak, a rural province southwest of Kabul. “Our partnership in Afghanistan will supply needed medical services to women and vulnerable families,” said Conway. The clinic will provide treatment for diseases, counseling on family planning, STD screening, distribution of vitamin supplements and education about sanitation. Prenatal care, assistance in deliveries, and post-partum care will also be available.
 

Robert W. Radtke

Episcopal Relief and Development announced today the election of Dr. Robert Radtke, a well-known scholar in Asian political and socio-economic issues, as its next president. The full board and staff are delighted to welcome Dr. Radtke to lead the agency, drawing from his extensive experience and expertise.

Dr. Radtke, 40, will begin work with Episcopal Relief and Development on July 5. He is now concluding his term as Senior Vice President for Programs at the Asia Society where he has spent 10 years as a key member of the executive team, charged with developing major program initiatives and shaping the institution’s agenda.

Dr. Radtke will succeed Sandra Swan who is retiring after serving as President of Episcopal Relief and Development for the past six years. During her tenure, Swan guided ERD in a major reorganization and in responding to crises including Hurricane Mitch; civil unrest in Kosovo; the September 11, 2001 terror attacks; and the 2004 South Asian tsunami that has prompted more than $8 million in contributions to ERD.

Dr. Radtke, whose father is an Episcopal priest, said he looks forward to being “part of leading ERD to the next level as the Episcopal Church’s voice in the field of international relief and development.” Dr. Radtke said he believes “passionately” in the work of Episcopal Relief and Development.

“I am humbled and thrilled that I have been asked to join in ERD's important work,” noted Dr. Radtke. “I look forward to working with the wonderful board and staff at ERD as we shape its future together. Episcopalians everywhere can be proud of what ERD has achieved under Sandra's leadership and I am honored to build on her many accomplishments.”

“Rob has the ability to connect his faith with his commitment to Episcopal Relief and Development’s ministry of reaching people in need around the world,” said the Rt. Rev. Harry Bainbridge, Bishop of Idaho and Chair of ERD’s Board of Directors.

“Rob will help ERD realize its great potential as we move into new territory,” Bishop Bainbridge added. “He is a wonderful person of faith who sees his new role as an opportunity to align his professional concerns for the poor, sick, and others in need with his faith journey.”

Under Dr. Radtke’s leadership, the New York-based Asia Society developed partnerships with United Nations agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private foundations, including the Ford Foundation and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

“We are very sorry to be losing such a valuable colleague, but I feel that ERD is fortunate to have someone of Rob's talent and integrity to lead it,” said Vishakha Desai, President of the Asia Society. “We wish Rob and ERD the very best and look forward to working with Rob in his new role.”

Dr. Radtke previously was Vice President of the Business Council for the United Nations. He earned his bachelor’s degree in East Asian languages and cultures from Columbia University. He holds a doctorate in modern history from University of Oxford, which he attended as a Rhodes Scholar.

Dr. Radtke is a member of the Association of American Rhodes Scholars and the Council on Foreign Relations. He also serves as Vice Chair of the Advisory Board of the Center for Religious Inquiry at St. Bartholomew's Church in New York City where he is an active member of the congregation.

He is married to Mary Abraham, an attorney. The couple has an eight-year-old daughter, Eva Warren.

Dr. Radtke is a frequent contributor to the media on a broad range of topics, including HIV/AIDS in Asia and U.S.-China relations.

“We are excited about Rob’s passion, experience, and vision,” said Gilda Wray, ERD Board Member and Chair of the Search Committee. “He will uphold Episcopal Relief and Development’s mission, while guiding the organization to greater heights and new directions in international relief and development.”

“Episcopal Relief and Development is in a wonderful place right now having grown significantly in both size and capability, with multi-year programs around the world,” said ERD’s outgoing President Sandra Swan. “Rob is poised to take the organization to next level. I am confident that I am leaving Episcopal Relief and Development in extremely capable hands.”

Episcopal Relief and Development, an independent 501(c) 3 organization, saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of crisis and rebuild after disasters. We work with local communities to provide food and health care and enable children and families to climb out of poverty. More information is available online at

America’s Earth Day began 35 years ago in response to our nation’s growing environmental concerns. Twenty million people from communities nationwide held teach-ins and demonstrations to protect our environment and make the world a healthier, safer, and better place. Earth Day is also a global holiday; heralded every year at the United Nations by the ringing of the Peace Bell.

This year, the American theme for Earth Day is “Protect Our Children and Our Future,” a goal that ERD is helping to turn into a reality by introducing sustainable farming techniques and building water supply systems.

In the Philippines and Tanzania, ERD trains farmers in ranching and agricultural techniques that improve and increase their crop yields. An irrigation project in the Philippines increases the amount of arable land and allows the soil to be planted twice a year instead of once. Our partnership in Venezuela teaches coffee workers responsible farming techniques.

ERD works to create clean water supplies for people who lack sewage and drainage systems. In Nicaragua, 50% of urban dwellers and more than 90% of urban dwellers have no sewage or drainage systems. People must draw their water from the same sources into which waste runoff seeps untreated.

In places such as Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Tanzania, ERD is building wells, latrines, wash stations, and sanitation systems. A safe and clean water supply means a lower incidence of disease – and also a healthier ecosystem.

ERD’s programs are preserving the Earth, not just for the people living in it today, but for those who will inherit it tomorrow.

Episcopal Relief and Development is saddened by a series of terror attacks in London, which struck commuters during the morning rush hour today. Three blasts shook the city’s subway system and one hit a double-decker bus.

According to officials, at least 37 people died and as many as 700 were injured in the blasts. Those numbers are expected to rise.

Robert W. Radtke, ERD President, said, “We are praying for the victims of the bombings and for their families. ERD stands in solidarity with the Church of England and with all those affected by today’s tragedy.”

ERD staff has contacted the Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury to offer condolences and pledge our support for people affected by the attacks. We will continue monitoring developments and stand ready to respond and provide emergency assistance if needed.

Please continue to pray for families affected by this disaster.
 

7/8/2005

In August and September of 2004, violent storms pounded the Gulf Coast and Florida. Hurricanes Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne caused 130 deaths and $50 billion in property damage. The hurricanes destroyed 10,000 homes and damaged many more, ruined crops, and decimated the shrimp industry. It was the fourth-worst natural disaster in U.S. history.

Episcopal Relief and Development responded immediately by sending emergency assistance to nine dioceses that were affected by the storms: Southwest Florida, Central Florida, Central Gulf Coast, Southeast Florida, Florida, Pittsburgh, Mississippi, Western North Carolina, and Newark. Long-term recovery efforts are helping families and individuals to recover from this disaster.

In January 2005, ERD facilitated a meeting with local churches to assess continuing needs and discuss solutions. Of the nine affected dioceses, four requested ongoing rehabilitation support. ERD developed a comprehensive program to help communities in these dioceses (Central Gulf Coast, Florida, Central Florida, and Southeast Florida) rebuild.

ERD is expanding its recovery programs to hurricane-battered areas of Florida, to help communities address unmet needs and protect themselves against future disasters.

Current Programs

Rebuilding after a disaster:
ERD is working with underserved populations who have been unable to repair their homes and get their lives back to normal. Only 8,402 of the 1.2 million Florida residents who applied for help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) received its maximum repair grant of $5,100. ERD is helping vulnerable families in the Diocese of Florida and the Diocese of Central Florida, including undocumented people and the elderly, make home repairs and pay utility bills.

The storms damaged or destroyed more than 150,000 homes in the Diocese of Central Gulf Coast. In that diocese, ERD is partnering with Rebuild Northwest Florida, an association of organizations that helps low-income families rebuild and repair their homes.

Across areas prone to hurricanes, ERD is stocking warehouses and Emergency Response Mobile Facilities with items such as generators, bottled water, chainsaws, and blankets. These supplies are often scarce and overpriced as stores run out of them after disasters.

In the Diocese of Florida and the Diocese of Central Gulf Coast, ERD is providing counseling to people traumatized by the disaster. Additionally, in the Diocese of Central Gulf Coast, ERD is training clergy members to help care for parishioners suffering from post-traumatic stress.

And in the Diocese of Central Florida, ERD is helping hurricane victims still living in emergency shelters to move back into regular housing.

Supporting Haitian communities throughout ongoing unrest and storms…
Episcopal Relief and Development continues development work and emergency assistance in communities in Haiti amidst growing unrest in the country.

Kidnappings, robberies, and ongoing unrest led by armed groups in Port-au-Prince and other areas in Haiti have already killed hundreds of people. Police estimate that over 450 people have been kidnapped since March. Crimes are on the rise and gun battles are a regular occurrence. Violence is expected to increase as political instability continues in the months leading up to the presidential elections scheduled for December.

Also, recent hurricanes have killed at least 46 people and damaged crops and homes in communities along the southern coast and southwestern peninsula of the country. But our work in Haiti continues.

Our long-term programs in the areas of emergency mitigation and response, food security, and capacity building are helping lift Haitians out of poverty. We are supporting development training in reforestation and soil conservation. Our economic and social development office within the Diocese of Haiti is strengthening the church’s ability to manage its own programs of health, agriculture, and job training.

Despite growing insecurity in Haiti, we remain committed to our long-term programs. “It is still a very serious situation here,” said the Rt. Rev. Jean Zache Duracin, Bishop of Haiti, “but the people of Haiti still have hope.”

Rebuilding after disasters in 2004…
ERD is helping Haitians recover after major disasters in 2004. ERD’s rehabilitation program is rebuilding communities devastated in the aftermath of civil unrest and several storms last year. We responded with emergency relief immediately after floods along the border of Haiti and the Dominican Republic and in Gonaives killed thousands of people. We supplied food, medicine, and blankets to families affected by the disasters. Our partnership with Water Missions International is installing filtering systems and tanks to provide clean water for communities.

Empowering young people in Les Cayes…
In September, ERD and the Diocese of Haiti will open The Bishop Tharp Business and Technology Institute (BTI) in the southwestern city of Les Cayes. BTI is the first school of its kind in Haiti to train and prepare students to enter the private sector as mid-level employees in their local community. BTI’s new director is Emmanuel Corneille, an experienced educator and business professional.

“BTI’s career-oriented programs will provide an integrated understanding of detailed knowledge and hands-on experience in specific business and computer technology fields,” said Corneille.

Students will receive a post-secondary business education and training in basic business subjects. BTI’s two-year program will graduate 60 students, with 30 trained in business processes and 30 skilled in computer operations and maintenance.

“The school intends to foster business growth in Les Cayes and provide opportunities for BTI graduates to be employed in the local economy,” said Corneille.

BTI will provide new opportunities for Haitians to earn an income for themselves and support their families.
 

Episcopal Relief and Development has added a special online section, www.er-d.org/mdg, dedicated to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The 20-page section, called What Can One Person Do? The MDGs and You, features stories, resources, and ways to get involved.

The new section provides information about the MDGs, which were developed to address issues of extreme global poverty. For each goal, there are examples related to ERD’s programs, key issues, and ideas for how one person can make a difference.

In two consecutive General Conventions, the Episcopal Church has called on dioceses and congregations to help achieve the eight goals.

MDG educational materials including a brochure, pew card, and survey are available to download. ERD worked in partnership with Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation and Episcopal Public Policy Network to develop the new materials.

“The MDGs are integral to each of Episcopal Relief and Development’s programs,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. "Our site can be used to find valuable resources on how we can work together to eliminate extreme global poverty.”

Episcopal Relief and Development, an independent 501(c) 3 organization, saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. 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.
 

9/12/2005

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.

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. 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.

Episcopal Relief and Development has partnered with Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM) to help relocate people displaced by Hurricane Katrina. The partnership will support EMM in providing initial funding assistance to dioceses where there are large numbers of people from devastated communities in the Gulf Coast region.

“When the Most Rev. Frank T. Griswold asked EMM to assist evacuees, we knew we could apply our expertise in resettling overseas refugees,” said C. Richard Parkins, EMM Director. “EMM counts on parish involvement, and in the days immediately following the hurricane, we were not surprised to have over 1000 offers of sponsorship from dioceses, congregations, and church institutions. Those displaced families who cannot return home and have no other options will be helped,” said Parkins.

The relocation project assists evacuees in finding support and temporary or permanent resettlement in communities where Episcopalians and others have extended hospitality. ERD’s support will train four teams of three people to screen and interview evacuees needing relocation assistance. It will also provide instruction and technical assistance for up to 10 dioceses that will support displaced people through congregations and communities.

Initially, EMM will serve in the Dioceses of Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, West Texas, and West Tennessee by screening and facilitating the relocation of a number of evacuees to communities offering sponsorship.

“ERD is privileged to partner with EMM for this important work in helping people to reestablish their lives,” said Abagail Nelson, Vice President of Program for ERD.

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. 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.

Sandra Swan, the former president of Episcopal Relief and Development, was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters by Berkeley Divinity School at Yale University at its annual convocation on October 12.

During the ceremony, Swan was praised for her energetic and visionary leadership as President of Episcopal Relief and Development, transforming it into an “efficient and effective global aid organization.” The citation also highlighted Swan’s efforts stating, “ERD’s record and reputation for providing emergency disaster relief and international humanitarian assistance is recognized as a model worldwide.”

The degree citation noted Swan previous accomplishments, leading organizations in publishing, the performing arts, education, and community affairs. It particularly called attention to her “intellectual curiosity, her core belief in social justice and …exceptional organizational talent” that has enabled her to be a “tireless advocate for bettering the lives of all people everywhere.”

Robert W. Radtke, ERD President, said, “Sandra’s service and dedication to ERD helped the organization reach out to more communities around the world and help people suffering. I’ve been humbled to build on her many accomplishments.”

In her acceptance remarks, Swan challenged listeners to combat the unceasing famine, disease, poverty and illiteracy that cripple the lives of millions around the world. In a nation of plenty, she urged, we must remember that throughout the developing world, “little boys die from measles, or mothers die in childbirth, or young girls can’t go to school because they have to fetch water for the family.”

Swan served as president of ERD from 1999 to 2005. During her tenure, Swan guided ERD in a major reorganization and in responding to crises including the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami that prompted more than $12 million in contributions to ERD and Hurricane Mitch in 1998 which led to a major reconstruction program in San Pedro Sula, Honduras.

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. 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.

6/20/2005

Episcopal Relief & Development observes World Refugee Day 2005, today, June 20. ERD’s programs are helping refugees and internally displaced people (IDPs) after emergencies such as the conflict in Uganda, civil unrest in Sudan, floods in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, and war in Iraq.

Our comprehensive emergency relief and rehabilitation programs meet the needs of displaced people in the midst of crisis and help them rebuild their lives. During emergencies, we provide critical aid such as food, temporary shelter, medicines, and access to clean water for vulnerable children and families forced to flee their homes. Our long-term response and commitment to displaced people provides integrated development programs so devastated communities can rebuild.

In northern Uganda, approximately 1.6 million people are displaced because of ongoing war. Episcopal Relief & Development is providing immediate relief to IDPs in the region. Through our partnership with Action for Churches Together (ACT), a supplemental food program is targeting the most vulnerable populations such as unaccompanied children, women, and the elderly in refugee camps.

Conflict in the Darfur region of western Sudan has left more than 1.5 million people displaced. Through ecumenical partners, ERD has supplied humanitarian assistance to people living in Darfur and in refugee camps in neighboring Chad. We remain committed to helping Sudanese families recover.

After devastating floods along the border between Haiti and the Dominican Republic killed thousands and displaced hundreds last year, ERD is digging wells and installing water systems and tanks in vulnerable villages in both countries. We are also training people how to use the water systems.

In Iraq, ERD provided emergency relief when the war began in 2003. ERD has provided ongoing support to displaced children and families in the country. We are restocking medical supplies and resources in health facilities in the country.

“For over 60 years, ERD has been actively working with refugees and displaced people worldwide,” said Sandra Swan, ERD President. “Today, our partnerships and long-term programs help people displaced by crises restore their lives,” said Swan.

To donate to Episcopal Relief & Development, visit http://www.er-d.org or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.

Episcopal Relief & Development, an independent 501(c) 3 organization, saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. We provide emergency assistance in times of crisis and rebuild after disasters. We work with local communities to provide food and health care and enable children and families to climb out of poverty.

Episcopal/Anglican ERD guests at HIV/AIDS Latin America and Caribbean Conference.

Episcopal Relief and Development remembers World AIDS Day 2005. New statistics indicate that the number of people living with HIV globally continues to rise and impact more communities around the world. Today, more than 40 million people are living with HIV, the highest ever. Worldwide, more than three million people, 500,000 of which were children, died from AIDS-related illnesses this year.

ERD’s HIV/AIDS programs are working with Anglican and ecumenical partners in communities devastated by the disease around the world. Our programs provide prevention education, care for people affected by the disease, and support the children left behind and their extended families. In sub Saharan Africa where AIDS is pandemic, ERD is actively working in countries such as Kenya, Namibia, Botswana, and Swaziland. In Latin America, two million people are living with the virus. The Caribbean is the second most affected region in the world as measured by HIV/AIDS prevalence. Within Latin America and the Caribbean, Haiti, Guatemala, Honduras, and Brazil are among the hardest-hit nations, some with prevalence rates of over 2%. ERD is expanding its work in countries such as Honduras, El Salvador, Brazil, and Peru.

“Our partnerships are working hard to reduce stigma and discrimination for those who have HIV, serving in the Anglican and Episcopal hospitals and clinics to treat people with HIV, creating jobs and income generating opportunities for people who have no where else to go, and education young people and teachers in schools and community centers,” said Abagail Nelson, ERD’s Vice President for Program.

On November 11, ERD hosted the first Anglican Conference on HIV/AIDS in conjunction with the III Latin American and Caribbean Forum of HIV/AIDS/STD and CONCASIDA 2005 in San Salvador, El Salvador. The ERD-sponsored Anglican conference brought together representatives from HIV/AIDS projects in Honduras, Belize, Uruguay, Peru, Costa Rica, Haiti, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and El Salvador. Conference participants dialogued, sharing stories and information about HIV/AIDS programs in their respective countries. The Forum and CONCASIDA took place from November 7- 11.

“There is a new way of being a Church, not that of being exceptional, but rather walking hand in hand, side by side with those that live with HIV/AIDS,” said the Rev. David Limo, Executive Director of the Rosa Blanca Ecumenical Center in Peru.

“In our programs throughout Latin American and the Caribbean and other parts of the world, ERD will continue to develop programs that lift people into dignity, and empower them…eradicating the conditions of injustice in which HIV/AIDS and other health crises thrive,” said Nelson.

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. 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.

Episcopal Relief and Development is saddened to report the death of Edward Emmanuel Corneille, the Director of the Bishop Tharp Institute of Business and Technology (BTI) in Les Cayes, Haiti. Episcopal Relief and Development worked in partnership with the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti to build the institute which opened in October of 2005.

Corneille was shot and killed in Pétion-Ville, just outside of Port-au-Prince, last Thursday. Haitian police are still investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. It has been reported that Corneille was involved in the campaign of Charles Henry Baker, a presidential candidate. According to reports, the police have registered at least 27 murders and 43 kidnapping in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area between December 12, 2005, and January 3, 2006.

The Rt. Rev. Jean Zaché Duracin, Bishop of Haiti, released a statement deploring the death of Corneille. Bishop Duracin said, “It is obvious that rampant violence and unrest has become a daily reality that threatens all of us living in Haiti.” He also said, “Since BTI’s opening, the institute has been seen as a symbol of hope for Les Cayes and the southern part of Haiti, with Emmanuel there was hope.”

“This is disheartening for the BTI community, the Diocese of Haiti, and ERD,” said Abagail Nelson, ERD’s Vice President for Program. “Emmanuel was a charismatic leader who will be sorely missed,” said Nelson.

A delegation from the diocese traveled to the institute on Saturday and is working through the transition process. Today, BTI reopened after a holiday recess. An interim director will be named this week by Bishop Duracin, Chair of BTI’s Board of Directors.

Corneille served as BTI’s director since February of 2005. He was instrumental in the final phases of building and opening the institute and helped recruit over 120 students. He worked in the U.S. for several years in business and higher learning institutions.

He is survived by a son and numerous family members both in Haiti and the United States.

“ERD remains committed to BTI through this transition in leadership,” said Nelson. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Emmanuel’s family.”

“This is the beginning of a new and important chapter for ERD,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. “In answering Executive Council's call, we want to shape a ministry that will serve the diverse range of challenges disasters bring—from the initial crisis to long-term rehabilitation,” said Radtke. “Each disaster is unique and the challenges each present are hard to anticipate in advance. We plan to build on our successful model of using an integrated community development partnership to shape a program that is flexible and adaptable to each disaster and each diocese,” he said.

Through diocesan partners, ERD’s domestic disaster response program provides immediate needs such as food, water, and shelter to people left most vulnerable after natural and human-made disasters. Once the emergency is over, ERD works with partners to develop a long-term recovery program to address the needs of marginalized populations disproportionately affected by the disaster.

In addition to coordinating the Hurricane Katrina program with Diocese of Louisiana’s Office of Disaster Response and Lutheran Episcopal Services in Mississippi, the role of the Director for Domestic Disaster Response also includes: conducting an inventory of diocesan and congregational disaster response work over the past two years; linking dioceses and ERD to preparedness networks at the local, state, and national level, and coordinating psychosocial trauma training for clergy and lay leaders. The successful candidate’s qualifications should include at least eight years of experience in domestic disaster response and extensive experience in developing and managing budgets, projects, and financial systems.

This year, ERD has long-term development programs that are active in 33 countries. ERD’s emergency relief and rebuilding program is working with Gulf Coast communities following Hurricane Katrina. ERD and diocesan partners have developed a multi-year recovery program which is restoring lives and communities devastated by the disaster. In the areas of food security and primary health care, ERD’s programs are helping communities produce healthy food, generate income, reduce the incidence of illness, including HIV/AIDS and malaria, and increase access to clean water sources.

“ERD and local partners throughout the Anglican Communion are working together to create stronger communities by serving suffering people worldwide,” said Radtke. “It is an honor to share with Archbishop Williams the numerous stories of hope and transformation from ERD’s programs throughout Central and South America, Asia, and Africa,” he said.

Radtke is also attending a roundtable on microfinance convened by Archbishop Williams at Lambeth Palace. The roundtable includes leaders of other relief and development organizations in the Anglican Communion.

Microenterprise development is a part of ERD’s integrated community development programs in countries such as India, the Philippines, Belize, Brazil, Zambia, and Burundi. For the past three years, ERD has partnered with the Ecumenical Church Loan Fund to support microcredit work in places including the Dominican Republic, Malawi, and Zimbabwe. For example, ERD established a microcredit program with the Church of South India after the tsunami. The program provides vocational training and small business development loans to people in four affected dioceses.

Episcopal Relief and Development has appointed Richard Ohlsen as Director for Domestic Disaster Response and Preparedness. In this newly created position with ERD, Ohlsen, who has several years experience in emergency operations, will work with Episcopal dioceses to inventory and design disaster preparedness plans. He will oversee ERD’s long-term Hurricane Katrina response program rebuilding Gulf Coast communities. Ohlsen will also link dioceses and ERD to local, state, and national emergency preparedness and response networks.

“We are elated to have Richard join our team as ERD works with the Church and dioceses to prepare, plan, and respond to emergencies,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. “Richard’s diverse experience will be critical in setting up support systems to manage disasters from the emergency through the rehabilitation phase. As faith-based organizations grow and become first responders in providing aid, the role of the Director for Domestic Disaster Response and Preparedness will become that much more vital,” said Radtke.

For the past seven years, Ohlsen has worked with the Emergency Preparedness and Response Directorate for the Federal Emergency Management Agency for Region II (New York). He assisted in responding to major disasters including Hurricane Jeanne, the September 11th World Trade Center attack, and the crash of TWA Flight 800. Ohlsen wrote New York State Supplements to the Federal Response Plan and serves as a lecturer on emergency management.

“One of my goals is to find a niche for the Episcopal Church in national disaster preparedness and response,” said Richard Ohlsen. “One of the best ways to reach the public is through the church. If we can have priests and lay people learn to work with their local communities, we will be that much more prepared to face disasters when they strike,” said Ohlsen.

Ohlsen, who began on April 3, is currently traveling to the Gulf Coast region with Abagail Nelson, ERD’s Vice President for Programs, to assess recovery and rehabilitation work in affected communities.

“I have great confidence in Richard and the future development of ERD’s domestic crisis desk,” said the Rt. Rev. George Packard, Bishop Suffragan for Chaplaincies for the Episcopal Church. “Richard's approach to disaster assessment is solid, and most important for this market, technically proficient while being a patient listener,” said Bishop Packard.

The Bishop Tharp Business and Technology Institute (BTI) was officially inaugurated at a ceremony on Sunday, April 2, 2006 in Les Cayes, Haiti. The school first opened in September 2005 and provides university-level courses such as business management, computer technology, statistics and English.

Approximately 250 people attended the inauguration and dedication including Robert W. Radtke, Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) President, the Rt. Rev. Jean Zaché Duracin, Bishop of the Diocese of Haiti, Mark Spina, Director for ERD, clergy from the Diocese of Haiti, former ERD board members, as well as BTI board members, students and their families. The institute is named after the late Rt. Rev. Robert G. Tharp, former Bishop of the Diocese of East Tennessee, ERD board chair and friend of the Diocese of Haiti.

“The idea of a Diocese of Haiti/ERD partnership focusing on post-secondary business education began in 1999,” said Radtke. “Bishop Duracin, ERD board members, Episcopal lay leaders with mission involvements in southwest Haiti and staff began to discuss ways to use resources to invest in an education strategy that drew on local community support and involvement, church presence and a commitment to practical read world training and skill-building,” he said. “Today, BTI is educating 180 students who will soon be business managers and owners, helping stimulate the local Les Cayes economy,” said Radtke.

The celebration began with a Eucharist at Saint Sauveur’s Parish in Les Cayes with Bishop Duracin serving as chief celebrant. A homily was given by the Rev. Kenol Rock, the parish’s rector. A gospel choir, comprised of 25 BTI students, sang, “O Happy Day” at the celebration. Then a procession led by Bishop Duracin and other clergy went from the church through the streets of Les Cayes to the BTI campus.

The inauguration ceremony and dedication included remarks from Burton Joseph, Interim Director of BTI, Radtke and BTI board members. Bishop Duracin and clergy consecrated the five classrooms, computer laboratory, future library and administrative building.

Rita Redfield, former ERD board member, read a message of support and remembrance from Ann Tharp, widow of Bishop Tharp. “Perhaps there are those among you who met Bob early in life and are here today on your journey at this institute,” said Redfield. “If Bishop Tharp were here today, he would challenge your sense of adventure and he would share with you his conviction that life is a holy dance,” she read.

“BTI’s opening and this ceremony is a testament to the determination of Bishop Duracin and his dedicated staff, ERD’s partnership with the diocese and the strength of the Haitian people themselves to pursue post-secondary business education opportunities for young people in southwest Haiti,” said Radtke.

Ultimately, BTI will create a pool of skilled workers equipped to start their own business or join the local workforce in Les Cayes, Haiti’s third largest city.

“BTI has made a real difference in Les Cayes,” said Louis Roosevelt, a student at BTI. “I am seeking opportunities to study and further my education,” said Roosevelt.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) commemorates World Health Day, today, April 7, 2006. ERD is working in countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America to protect and promote good health. We provide basic health care services through static and mobile clinics, safe water systems, immunizations and prevention and control of locally endemic diseases.

“ERD's health care programs provide critical primary health care in areas of the world where there is often little health infrastructure,” said Abagail Nelson, ERD’s Vice President for Programs. “Community health care promoters are at the front lines of community training and prevention in over 30 countries. ERD support for hospitals, clinics, health posts, and clean water programs also help bring alleviation to those who suffer from illness,” said Nelson.

As part of ERD’s HIV/AIDS program, youth leaders and peer counselors are educating communities about disease prevention in countries such as Honduras, Peru, and Zambia. In Nicaragua, Brazil, and the Philippines, our clean water and sanitation programs are constructing wells and latrines as well as providing community health training to help reduce incidences of disease and protect the environment.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) recognizes Africa Malaria Day 2006. Each year in Africa, 300 million people contract malaria and one in 20 children under the age of five die from the disease.

This year, ERD will expand its malaria program in Africa to work in 10 countries and provide education and training, long-lasting insecticide-treated nets and access to effective drug therapy to over 300,000 people. The program will expand to 16 countries over the next three years. ERD’s malaria program targets the most vulnerable rural communities, particularly pregnant women and children under five. In sub Saharan Africa where malaria is the leading cause of death, ERD is working in Angola, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania and Zambia to improve the long-term health of local communities.

“Malaria is a curable and preventable disease that kills between 1 and 1.5 million people in Africa each year. ERD and Anglican partners in sub Saharan Africa are becoming a critical force in malaria education and prevention, saving the lives of hundreds of thousands most susceptible to contracting this disease,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President.

In Angola and Zambia, ERD has been working for the past year on education, community mobilization and training health care workers. A weeklong series of events hosted by ERD and the Anglican Church of Zambia will celebrate Africa Malaria Day. On April 27, a community launch in Lusaka, Zambia, being attended by the Zambian Minister of Health and other dignitaries, will distribute nets. In Angola, nets are being distributed in Vige, in the north, and the Cunene Province, in the south.

ERD is pleased to announce two new members of its Program Department. Dr. Matondo Alexandre from Angola is ERD’s Technical Specialist for Malaria. His office will be based in Africa. Most recently, Dr. Alexandre managed the World Health Organization’s cholera outbreak in Luanda. Dr. Stephen Dzisi from Ghana has also joined ERD as the Program Officer for Primary Health. He is a maternal and child health specialist and oversaw UNICEF’s malaria control program in northern Ghana.

Jessie (Joyce) Keery was born on June 6, 1939 in Glasgow, Scotland. Her parents were the late Thomas and Isabella Keery and she had two brothers, Charles and James. Joyce attended Clover Hill Primary School and Knightswood Secondary School. After both of her parents died, Joyce relocated to Michigan with her elder brother, Charles, where she graduated from Coby High School in Detroit.

Joyce met her husband William (Bill) A.G. Hogg in Kinghorn, Scotland on August 1, 1955, and she returned from the United States to marry him in 1958. In 1967, Bill and Joyce relocated to New York City where Bill furthered his career as a naval architect.

Joyce became an active and dedicated member of the Episcopal Church after relocating to New York. People often marveled at Joyce’s vast and encyclopedic knowledge of the Church. Since the early 1970s Joyce served as a volunteer in various capacities in the Diocese of Long Island, Province II and on the National Episcopal Church Women’s Board. She was President and Treasurer for the Episcopal Church Women of the Diocese of Long Island, a member of Diocesan Council as well as Vice President and Treasurer of Episcopal Charities in the Diocese. Joyce was an Honorary Canon of the Cathedral of the Incarnation of the Diocese of Long Island and a recipient of the Bishop’s Medal for Distinguished Diocesan Service.

A member of Episcopal Relief and Development’s staff since January 1997, Joyce initially served as the ERD Diocesan Coordinator for the Diocese of Long Island and later as a volunteer on staff. In 1997, she was appointed Director of Networks & Special Projects. She was responsible for recruiting and training ERD’s “Network” of volunteers, a special group of more than 3,000 individuals who work tirelessly to advocate, support, and promote ERD’s work throughout Episcopal parishes, dioceses and seminaries around the country. Additionally, Joyce coordinated and managed the ERD booth at the last three General Conventions and represented ERD at major conferences and diocesan conventions. Joyce has attended every General Convention since 1976.

During her most intense fight with cancer, Joyce continued to work part-time from her home in Bristow, Virginia. She was able to plan and attend the Annual Network meeting of ERD Diocesan Coordinators in May of this year. Even in a wheelchair, Joyce managed to produce an extremely successful meeting with more than 86 Diocesan Coordinators in attendance.

Joyce will be missed by all who knew and loved her. She will be especially missed for how she lived, and for the stirring example she has given to many of us about the importance of service, compassion and dedication.

Joyce has been affectionately known as “Mother Hen” and “Sergeant at Arms” for her diligence and meticulous attention to detail. She was a dynamic and vibrant person who was tireless in her devotion to ERD and her Church. Her compassion, her generosity of spirit and her unselfish consideration of others are but a few of Joyce’s many wonderful qualities that we can never forget.

Episcopal Relief and Development and the Episcopal Church family share in the Hogg family’s loss. Yet, we know that her body was broken and her spirit was ready. May God console her family and all those who mourn as she transitions, and may God grant the unique, the witty, and the irreplaceable Canon Jessie “Joyce” Hogg eternal and peaceful rest in the Kingdom.

Joyce is survived by her immediate family, beloved husband William A. G. Hogg, a retired naval architect; a daughter, Janice Hogg, Oakland Gardens, NY; a son, Neil and his wife, Pamela, Springfield, VA; two darling grandchildren, Graham and Isabel; and a host of relatives, friends and colleagues.

Funeral services for Canon Joyce Hogg will be held at Trinity Episcopal Church in Manassas, VA on Saturday, June 10 at 2:00 in the afternoon. The Rev. Stuart E. Schadt and The Rev. Vinnie Lainson will officiate. Relatives and friends are welcome to attend a Celebration of Joyce’s Life and Ministry after the service.

Dr. Robert W. Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief and Development, addressed the House of Bishops, House of Deputies and Episcopal Church Women during the 75th General Convention of the Episcopal Church in Columbus, Ohio. Radtke addressed the House of Bishops on June 13, House of Deputies on June 14 and Episcopal Church Women on June 15.

Radtke highlighted the ongoing challenges of people living in poverty around the world where food is scarce and children suffer from easily preventable diseases. He highlighted ERD’s accomplishments in the areas of food security and health care, such clean water and HIV/AIDS. He also thanked everyone for their overwhelming generosity and noted the increase in contributions from individuals and churches that support ERD’s work.

During his address, Radtke requested that people not forget the enormous work that still remains for ERD and the wider Episcopal Church. “All these facts cannot obscure the fundamental reality of our times: God’s call to us to feed the hungry and care for the sick remains as urgent today as it ever was.”

He shared stories with bishops, deputies and the Episcopal Church Women about the tremendous difference ERD and its partners throughout the Anglican Communion are making in impoverished regions of the world, such as El Salvador. During a visit to ERD’s health care program in the Bajo Lempa region of El Salvador, Radtke recalled a family of five that suffered from upper respiratory problems caused by cooking over a fire. With support from ERD and local partners, the family received a smokeless stove, curing the mother, Maria, and her children from potentially deadly diseases. “Maria said it changed their life—her children didn’t burn themselves when they played in the cooking area and her eyes and lungs were clear,” said Radtke.

Episcopal Relief and Development is highlighting its programs in the areas of emergency relief and rebuilding, food security and health care each day during General Convention until June 20th. Located at Booth 146 and 147 in the Columbus Convention Center, ERD is serving free samples of two, new blends in the Bishops Blend Coffee program—Kaldi’s Roast and Café de la Paz.

There are many weighty issues to be discussed here in Columbus. But there is none more important than answering the call of Matthew 25: To feed the hungry, to care for the sick, and to welcome the stranger.

I have the privilege to lead Episcopal Relief and Development at this place and time as we work together to do to unto the least of these what we would do for Jesus.

On December 26th 2004 I was very contentedly reflecting on a happy career in the field of Asian studies. I had reached many important milestones and was extremely satisfied with where I found myself.

That morning I listened to the first radio accounts of a mysterious tsunami that had swept across the Indian Ocean.

As the days and news accounts unfolded, the dimensions of the unspeakable tragedy became clear, yet to me unfathomable. I found myself shaken as the death toll rose. Twenty-thousand; thirty-thousand; fifty-thousand; seventy-five thousand!

Until that point, I had devoted my entire professional life to Asian studies, but there was not a single thing that I could do or say that would make any difference as the most unbelievable tragedy took the lives of countless thousands.

The following Sunday, ERD had placed in my pew a bulletin insert explaining how it was responding to the tsunami. For the very first time, my wife and I decided to support the work of ERD like so many others had done.

ERD helped me to move from paralyzed despair to hopeful action.

I soon discovered that ERD was looking for a new president and the rest, as they say, is history…

The tsunami of 2004 was terrible, but there are countless silent tsunamis happening everyday around the world.

• During the time we are together there are:
• 815 million people who are chronically undernourished
• Three billion people who live on less than $2 per day
• 30,000 children who die each day from hunger-related causes
• children dying every eight seconds from drinking dirty water
• 10 million children who die each year from treatable diseases
• Eight newborns that die every 60 seconds from low birth weight, malnutrition or infection.
• 42 million people living with HIV/AIDS

Why aren’t the television crews covering these deaths?
Why have we closed our hearts to these souls?
Where are the humanitarian armies to prevent these tsunamis?

They are sitting right in front of me. You are these armies. Your vision three years ago created Episcopal Relief and Development as the international development arm of our Church.

What you did was visionary and Episcopalians from around the country have responded with staggering generosity. Let me tell you how far we’ve all come since the last General Convention.

In 2004, there were 2563 Churches that supported ERD. At the end of 2005 there were 4967! That’s a 100% increase.

In 2004, there were 23,054 individuals who made donations to ERD. At the end of 2006 there were 86,370! That’s a 300% increase.

In 2004, ERD received donations totaling $9,897,584. At the end of 2005, total donations were over $36,876,600! That’s a 400% increase.

Thanks to this outpouring of compassion and generosity, we have been able to expand our programs in the areas of disaster response, food security, primary healthcare and HIV/AIDS to the point where we serve over 1.2 million people.

But we certainly can’t rest on our laurels. All these facts cannot obscure the fundamental reality of our times: God’s call to us to feed the hungry and care for the sick remains as urgent today as it ever was.

Shortly after I became president of ERD, I had the privilege of visiting one of ERD’s programs in El Salvador.

Maria and her family of five live in a house with a dirt floor. The family sleeps in hammocks to stay out of the rain water that flood their home. The hammocks have the added advantage of keeping the family out of the way of snakes when they are sleeping. The walls of the house are made of scavenged tin and sometimes wood pieces. There is no running water but there is a well.

The family cooks over an open fire under a lean-to roof to keep the fire from going out in the rain. The cooking area is smoky and dangerous—children are easily burned. Women and children continuously breathe in the smoke from the fire and as a result, they develop upper respiratory problems. These problems start at an early age and become chronic and life-threatening, leading to death eventually.

We are working with the community to build smoke-less stoves—enclosed cement stoves with chimneys.

I asked Maria what difference the stove had made to her and her family. She said that it had changed their life. Her children didn’t burn themselves when they played in the cooking area and her eyes and lungs were clear. There had been no infections since the stove was built: She had stayed healthy and so had her family. Who would have thought that a simple modification on a stove could have changed so many lives for the better?

How are we going to stop the silent tsunamis sweeping away the most vulnerable among us?

One family at a time, one stove at a time, one prayer at a time because that is what God calls us to do in Matthew 25.

Over the next three years, ERD plans to substantially expand its malaria prevention
program.

We hope to reach over three million people in 16 countries.

Last month, we launched the first phase of this project in Zambia and there was a gala celebration in which the donors, the ministry of health and other dignitaries participated.

After all the speeches had been made and the people in their fancy clothes went home, ERD’s partners in Zambia got on their bicycles and motorcycles and rode out into the country side. They would begin the distribution of tens of thousands of long-lasting insecticide treated nets.

On one of the places where our partners arrived, they saw hundreds of villagers who had been waiting in the heat all day long. Babies were strapped onto the backs of the women who had walked many miles for a chance to help their children live a better life.

For the people our partners serve, we are the only source of malaria prevention—you and I.

Episcopal Relief and Development go literally to the end of the road to deliver nets to families with small children so that those children might be spared the fate of the 12 million others who will die before their fifth birthday.

How are we going to stop the silent tsunamis sweeping away the most vulnerable among us?

One net at a time, one family at a time, one baby at a time because that is what God calls us to do
in Matthew 25.

Friends, you have done a wondrous thing in creating Episcopal Relief and Development and supporting it so generously.

I know there are many difficult discussions and decisions that we are struggling with in our Church. I certainly don’t know the answers to all these issues.

Of one thing I am certain, however. In the time it has taken me to deliver this speech, another silent tsunami has rippled across the world, taking in its wake over eight hundred children whose deaths could have been prevented. How many will die of preventable causes during the 10 days of this convention?

If these children had died in a plane crash it would be news for weeks. Yet their deaths have gone largely unnoted.

Please hold these children in your prayers.

Ladies (and Gentlemen), brothers (and sisters) in Christ, let us work together to live out Matthew 25: “to do unto the least of these what we would do for Jesus”.

To paraphrase St. Teresa of Avila:
Christ has no body now, but ours.
No hands, no feet on earth, but ours.
Ours are the eyes with which he sees.
Ours are the feet with which he walks.
Ours are the hands with which he blesses all the world.

Episcopal Relief and Development is highlighting its clean water and sanitation programs today during the Episcopal Church’s 75th General Convention in Columbus, Ohio. Worldwide, over 1.6 billion children die from diseases each year like cholera and typhoid caused by unsanitary water sources. In the past two years, natural disasters like the tsunami and Hurricane Katrina have made access to safe, clean water even more crucial.

In countries in Latin America, Africa and Asia, ERD and Anglican and ecumenical partners are implementing clean water and sanitation programs which provide communities with safe water sources and improve hygiene practices. In the Philippines, 35 percent of the Filipinos have no access to clean drinking water. ERD and the Anglican Church of the Philippines are implementing a program which digs deep wells, installs electric underwater pumps and sets up reservoir tanks. The program also helps communities maintain their water systems.

In the Cunene district of Angola, ERD and the Anglican Diocese of Angola will construct a well and pump to serve six villages. The program will also train community members to build latrines. People will benefit not only from improved health, but these wells also make crop irrigation possible, allowing families to increase their income with their additional food supply.

In rural communities in Nicaragua, ERD and a local ecumenical partner are helping to reduce the incidences of disease and protecting the environment. The partnership is constructing ventilated latrines which prevent odor, insects and diseases. Communities are also taught proper methods of garbage collection, disposal and recycling.

Episcopal Relief and Development is highlighting its programs in the areas of emergency relief and rebuilding, food security and health care each day during General Convention. Located at Booth 146 and 147 in the Columbus Convention Center, ERD is serving free samples of two, new blends in the Bishops Blend Coffee program—Kaldi’s Roast and Café de la Paz.

An unprecedented large-scale flooding has engulfed the eastern states, causing officials to declare a state of emergency in parts of Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and Maryland. Rivers crested above flood stage seeping into homes and forcing families to seek rescue on roof tops.

“This is the worst flooding that parts of the North East have seen in over 50 years,” said Richard Ohlsen, ERD’s director of domestic disaster preparedness and response.

To date, ERD has been able to provide emergency assistance to the Dioceses of Albany, Easton, New York and Central New York. Even as the rain continues falling in these communities, needs and damage assessment have already begun in the most devastated areas. Affected dioceses plan to use the emergency funds towards meeting the most urgent needs of the evacuees: Temporary shelter, medicine, food, water, baby formula and clothing.

The Dicoese of Easton is working with the local Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD) to make needs assessment of their most affected regions. Shelters have been set up to assist people displaced from their homes throughout the East Coast. In the Dioceses of Albany and Central New York, much of the communities are still under water. The Diocese of Albany has been in contact with the emergency operations center to work on assessing the immediate needs of those community and residents affected.

“The church is the center of the community, and in many cases the church is where disaster victims turn for help. Not only in financial matters but also in the spiritual and physiological care…Through preparedness we will help meet the needs of our communities,” said Ohlsen.

On the anniversary of one of the biggest natural disasters in US history, communities come together to look back and look forward in the year since Hurricane Katrina barreled through the Gulf Coast. Episcopal Relief and Development and our partners have accomplished a great deal in the recovery efforts but the needs are still immense.

Immediately after Katrina…

Mississippi’s Bishop Duncan Gray recalls the first few days after the disastrous storm struck. “I saw a picture of a washed out shell of St. Peter’s by-the-Sea. That impressed me as to how dramatic this storm was,” he said.

More than 1,600 people were killed and over 270,000 homes and 35,000 businesses destroyed. Within days, ERD sent emergency response funds to our Episcopal and ecumenical partners around the country. The combined efforts with our partners in the Gulf Coast regions saw critical supplies such as food, water and medicine get distributed to more than 500,000 people. “ERD was the first to send a major grant,” Bishop Gray said.

The response from the Episcopal and Anglican community was enormous. More than $15 million was raised to assist Katrina survivors. Seventy-five hundred volunteers came from every part of the country to offer countless hours of service to people in need. ERD partnered with 17 agencies to distribute goods and services.

ERD implemented short-term and long-term recovery programs designed to meet the physical and emotional rebuilding needs of survivors.

The recovery effort involved a three-to-five year plan that included ERD’s partnership with the Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM). ERD received $3 million from the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) to expand our case management program for the Katrina diaspora around the country. Survivors are given psychosocial support, trauma counseling and in the set-up of individual recovery plans.

In Louisiana, ERD partnered with the Diocese of Louisiana and organized the Office of Disaster Response (ODR) to reach out to affected communities in New Orleans and on into Baton Rouge. Through distribution centers in the local churches, we were able to provide emergency supplies and urgent medical care to over 126,260 people.

ODR also continues to support Mobile Loaves and Fishes, a food delivery service that circulates in low-income neighborhoods to deliver much-needed food to people. So far, 11,750 have benefited from this program.

In order to rebuild the many homes washed away by Katrina, ERD and the Diocese of Louisiana also helped to create the Jericho Road Episcopal Housing Initiative. The program will construct affordable homes and rehabilitate damages ones for low-income residents. The plan is to build 500 homes over a period of five to seven years.

In Mississippi, ERD partnered with the Diocese of Mississippi and the Lutheran Episcopal Services in Mississippi (LESM) to create Camp Coast Care, a response program to meet the immediate needs of the survivors. Our reach began in Long Beach, Mississippi and extended to Bay St. Louis.

Camp Coast Care provided life-saving medical services to nearly 22,000 people during the critical period after Katrina first hit the region. Emergency supplies such as food, water, clothing and cleaning supplies were distributed to 403,635 people. A pastoral care service was also implemented to support clergy handle the emotional impact of the devastation, a program that Bishop Gray said “provided enormous help for what the clergy needed.”

ERD is now supporting Camp Coast Care to operate as a long-term care facility. Volunteers are housed there while they assist in the rebuilding efforts of the various communities. “ERD’s particular gift has been in long-term rebuilding,” said Bishop Gray.

Up to 135 homes have been rebuilt to date. ERD’s long-term efforts in Mississippi will involve continued support for the construction of homes and businesses.

A year later…

“Progress is being made slowly, coalitions are being built, long-term recovery round tables are becoming effective,” said Richard Ohlsen, ERD’s director of domestic response and preparedness. He cautions, “Normalcy will not be reached for another decade or two.”

In Louisiana, damaged homes are just now being taken down and slabs of concrete are still lying in the roads. “Entire communities haven’t returned,” said Archdeacon Dennis McManis, operations director for ODR. “Eighty percent of the flooded areas are still uninhabitable. We’re still gutting out houses.”

The need is still great in all areas of the Gulf Coast. Volunteers are still highly in demand. There is a great need for people to assist in all aspects of labor in Louisiana and Mississippi—flooded homes need to be gutted, food needs to be prepared and served, traumatized survivors need to be counseled. “My greatest concern is that people are going to forget about New Orleans,” McManis said. “Volunteers will be needed for years,” he said. For more information on volunteer opportunities in Mississippi’s Camp Coast Care please visit http://www.dioms.org/coastcare.htm. To volunteer in Louisiana, please visit ODR’s Web site at http://www.edola.org/odr_volunteer_main.php.

McManis maintains his optimism though. Even though the visible signs of recovery have come in small increments, there is still hope that given time, affected regions will revitalize. Likewise, Bishop Gray feels the general mood of his community as positive and full of hope.

The commemoration will begin in New Orleans on Sunday, August 27. Events will highlight ceremonies in which Bishop Jenkins and Bishop Gray will be officiating. The Christ Episcopal Cathedral in New Orleans will host an interfaith service officiated by Bishop Jenkins, Rabbi Cohn of the Temple Sinai and Rafeeq Nu’man of the local Muslim community. In Mississippi’s Christ Church in Bay St. Louis, there will be a community ringing of bells in honor of those who lost their lives. There will also be a Hands-Across-the-Coast ceremony on Highway 90 in which people will join hands from one of end of the coast to another.

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. 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.

Five years ago today, terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York City and Pentagon in Virginia, killing nearly 3,000 people. Immediately after the disaster, Episcopal Relief and Development responded, providing food and other supplies to rescue workers at Ground Zero. In the initial days, months and years that followed, we supported families directly affected by the tragedy and people indirectly impacted, including low-income and undocumented workers who lost their jobs. ERD’s assistance also trained chaplains who offered trauma counseling. As part of our long-term work, the Interfaith Education Initiative, a joint project between ERD and the Episcopal Church’s Office of Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations, provided a curriculum and educational resources to further interfaith understanding and cross-cultural dialogue.

And today, ERD continues its commitment to long-term rebuilding following the September 11th tragedy.

“As we mark the fifth year anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon, ERD remembers those who perished on September 11th as well those who conducted one of the most heroic rescues operations in history,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President.

Working in partnership with the New York Disaster Interfaith Services, ERD is supporting interfaith education and recovery programs which include dialogues and interagency support that promotes interfaith understanding, tolerance, and conflict resolution.

“ERD has been a visionary partner, ensuring people affected by 9/11 are given appropriate support and access to resources including case management,” said Peter Gudaitis, Executive Director and CEO for New York Disaster Interfaith Services. “ERD’s support has focused on the unmet needs [such as mental health and pastoral cares] of under-resourced communities in New York City including survivors, families and injured recovery workers. The partnership has benefited 1000 families each year since 2001,” said Gudaitis.

“September 11th underscores that the importance of being prepared for disasters is critical,” said Richard Ohlsen, ERD’s Director of Domestic Disaster Response and Preparedness. “ERD’s work with dioceses across the country is helping to build a disaster preparedness program so they can respond quickly and effectively if and when a disaster occurs,” said Ohlsen.

JOINT STATEMENT OF

The Episcopal Church’s ONE Episcopalian Campaign

EPISCOPAL RELIEF and DEVELOPMENT

EPISCOPALIANS for GLOBAL RECONCILIATION

At the 75th General Convention in June of 2006, the Episcopal Church set out the Millennium Development Goals (or MDGs as they are more commonly known) as a mission priority for the Episcopal Church. In 2000, 191 nations—including the United States—agreed on a plan to cut extreme global poverty in half by 2015. They identified eight goals:

Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger.
Achieve universal primary education for children.
Promote gender equality and empower women.
Reduce child mortality.
Improve maternal health.
Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases.
Ensure environmental sustainability.
Create a global partnership for development.

All three of our organizations are working in different but complementary ways towards achieving the MDGs. Below are brief summaries of how we work to assist Episcopalians in making the MDGs a reality.

The Episcopal Church’s ONE Episcopalian ™ Campaign

ONE Episcopalian ™is a grassroots partnership between The Episcopal Church and the ONE Campaign to rally Episcopalians – ONE by ONE – to the cause of ending extreme poverty in our world and achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The Episcopal Church formally endorsed the MDGs at both the 74th and 75th General Conventions. The ONE Campaign (ONE) is a coalition of 2 million people and over 70 non-profit, advocacy and humanitarian organizations. ONE believes that allocating an additional one percent of the US budget towards providing basic needs like health, education, clean water and food would transform the futures and hopes of an entire generation in the world’s poorest countries. ONE does not ask for donations but encourages advocacy by signing its declaration, spreading the word about the campaign, and by contacting elected officials and asking them to do even more to fight global AIDS and extreme poverty.
Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD)

ERD is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church. An independent 501(c) (3) organization, ERD saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world. 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. All of ERD’s international programs are designed and assessed in part by how well they address the MDGs. If you want to make a gift in support of the MDGs, donating to ERD is a good way to do that. Visit our website or call to learn more: http://www.er-d.org/ or 1-800-334-7626 ext. 5129.

Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation (EGR)

EGR is an independent 501(c)(3) organization resourcing the movement of spiritual transformation emerging around the MDGs in the Episcopal Church. From individuals and congregations to dioceses, church-related organizations and national church structures, EGR works with every level of the church connecting, educating, encouraging, providing resources and empowering ministry for the MDGs. We provide the connective tissue for this movement – drawing together any and all efforts to engage the MDGs so the movement may grow in new and exciting ways. EGR is not a granting agency, nor do we do any direct development work. Instead, we encourage MDG-related ministries and promote the work of ERD, ONE and any effort aimed at effectively engaging this mission. A primary way EGR invites the Church to engage the MDGs at every level is through 0.7% giving.

We hope that this description of The Episcopal Church’s ONE Episcopalian Campaign, Episcopal Relief and Development, and Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation is helpful as you discern your call to fight against global poverty and achieve the MDGs.

Alex Baumgarten
International Policy Analyst, Office of Government Relations, Episcopal Church
ONE Episcopalian ™

Robert W. Radtke
President
Episcopal Relief and Development

The Rev. Mike Kinman
Executive Director
Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation
 

3/9/2006

Claudette Kigeme, Sizakele Shongwe, and Dr. Pauline Sathiamurthy were panelists at ERD’s roundtable discussion on women’s participation in development on February 28.

Episcopal Relief & Development celebrates International Women’s Day, today, March 8. The day recognizes the collective challenges, achievements, and milestones for women in the struggle for equality, justice, and peace for all women worldwide. As goal three of the eight Millennium Development Goals, ERD’s sustainable community development programs around the world promote gender equality and empower women. In countries such as Honduras, India, Zambia, and Burundi, ERD’s programs work with communities worldwide to lift women and girls out of poverty.

A partnership between ERD and the Diocese of Honduras is supporting 125 Garifuna women who are part of a breadmaking cooperative in Teguigalpa and San Pedro Sula. The Garifuna, an Afro-Caribbean ethnic group, traditionally live on the northern coast of Honduras and often face marginalization and discrimination. The partnership is providing the women with support such as production and business training as well as uniforms. The group currently sells fresh breads at kiosks in two cities.

ERD is also working with the Church of South India on a long-term rehabilitation program rebuilding communities devastated by the 2004 tsunami. “After the tsunami hit, the church was faced with an incredible reality- hundreds of children had been orphaned and while the boys found a home, girls were waiting to be seen, heard, adopted, and taken in by someone,” said Dr. Pauline Sathiamurthy, Provincial Secretary of the Church of South India. “This struck me as a big challenge the church had to face. If the girl child wasn’t taken in and protected, she’d be swallowed up by social evils such as child trafficking and begging,” said Sathiamurthy. Through a partnership with ERD, the Church of South India took in 300 children—200 girls and 100 boys—who are in three church hostels. The children are given shelter, food, clothing, health care, education, and skills training.

In Burundi, where the prevalence rate of HIV is 6% and women are more vulnerable to the disease, ERD and the Church of Burundi are working with support groups for people living with HIV/AIDS. The program also provides awareness, education, and care for children left orphaned by the disease. The support group offers participants business training, microcredit loans, counseling, and psychological support so they can earn an income to support themselves and their children. “Health is directly linked to poverty and many preventable diseases could be avoided by educating women about them,” said Claudette Kigeme, a Mothers’ Union provincial worker with the Church of Burundi.

Sathiamurthy and Kigeme are just two of ERD program partners visiting New York City as part of the Anglican delegation of women attending the 50th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. The UNCSW began February 27th and concludes March 10. On February 28th, ERD sponsored a roundtable discussion titled, “Where We Stand Now: Enhancing Anglican Women’s Participation in Development.” The panel discussion featured Sathiamurthy and Kigeme as well as Sizakele Shongwe from the Diocese of Cape Town and Joycelyn Tengatenga from the Diocese of Southern Malawi. Panelists along with fellow Anglican delegates spoke on the successes and challenges of providing education, employment, income generation opportunities, and health care to women in their respective countries.

“The integrated community development approach of ERD’s work offers an opportunity for issues of gender equality to be at the forefront of all program initiatives,” said Janis Rosheuvel, ERD’s Program Associate for Africa. “International Women’s Day allows us a time to pause for reflection on our aims and renew our commitment to ensuring gender equity,” said Rosheuvel.

For more information on ERD’s programs worldwide, please visit http://www.er-d.org/.

Episcopal Relief & 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. 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.

12/14/2006

by Malaika Kamunanwire

Robert W. Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief and Development, was a featured speaker at the White House Summit on Malaria in Washington, DC on Thursday, December 14th. The Summit was hosted by President and Mrs. Bush at the National Geographic Society in collaboration with the Department of State, the U.S. Agency for International Development and Malaria No More.

Malaria is an easily preventable disease. Yet, it currently kills 3,000 children daily and claims the lives of close to a million people worldwide every year.

The White House Summit on Malaria assembled non-governmental organizations, faith-based service agencies, multilateral institutions, international experts, civic leaders from Africa, government dignitaries, corporations and foundations. The objective was initiating a public-private effort to fight malaria as well as educating the American public and the wider international community about the need for a global partnership to control malaria.

The Summit was part of the President’s Malaria Initiative, a five-year program that began in 2005. The initiative, a collaboration of the private sector and U.S. government, aims to cut malaria-related deaths by 50 percent in 15 African countries.

More than 300 people attended the event, which included remarks by First Lady Laura Bush, The Hon. Condoleezza Rice, Melinda Gates and the Nigerian Minister of Health, Eyitayo Lambo, among other notable speakers.

At the White House Summit, Rob Radtke announced Episcopal Relief and Development’s NetsforLifeSM initiative. NetsforLifeSM, a partnership for malaria prevention in Africa, will deliver 1 million long-lasting insecticide-treated nets along with critical training on proper use of the nets in 16 countries across sub-Saharan Africa over the next three years. NetsforLifeSM is a consortium of funding and implementing partners that works through Anglican churches and ecumenical agencies in Africa to mobilize grassroots communities to prevent, recognize and treat malaria.

“NetsforLifeSM is reducing malaria morbidity and mortality for people who live at the end of the road,” said Radtke.

“Through NetsforLifeSM, we are distributing nets that last from three to five years and we are working with local partners, trained volunteers and technical staff to administer the proper training and education,” continued Radtke. “Our monitoring and evaluation program measures the rates of malaria in each community.”

In his remarks at the Summit, Radtke also discussed the importance of working with local Anglican churches to access the most remote communities on the continent.

“Our Anglican partners are on the front lines in countries like Zambia where incidences of malaria have tripled in the past 30 years,” said Radtke. “It is through the generous support of corporate and individual donors and the tireless work of churches on the ground that we are able to reach the last mile in Africa.”

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. 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.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) commemorates World Water Day 2007. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Coping With the Scarcity of Water”.

Worldwide, 2.6 billion people suffer from daily water shortages and struggle to access safe water for their basic needs. In developing countries, more than 4,000 children die from each day from preventable, water-borne diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis, and diarrhea. More than a billion people do not have a sufficient supply of drinking water.

Through ERD’s primary health care programs, we are committed to helping communities access safe drinking water and improve hygiene practices. ERD works in partnership with local communities around the world to secure a safe supply of groundwater, protect springs, dig wells and teach vital education on sanitary practices. In working toward the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) #7, which is to guarantee environmental sustainability, ERD is helping reduce the number of people who lack availability to potable water.

“All over the world, appropriate water and sanitation management has been the primary key to reducing illness, particularly for children under five,” said Abagail Nelson, ERD’s Vice President for Programs.

In partnership with the Anglican Diocese of Angola, ERD is working in the southern district of Cunene to build wells that will serve as a clean water source for six villages in the region. Construction of latrines and proper hygiene methods will be taught to build awareness of good health and nutrition.

In Haiti, ERD and the Diocese of Haiti are helping residents in a rural area of the country develop agricultural techniques through watershed recovery, reforestation and terracing. The program works to alleviate the effects of environmental deterioration caused by hurricanes and drought.

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.

Today, Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) welcomes the Rev. Lynn C. Sanders as the Director of Church Relations. Sanders comes to ERD with a wealth of expertise, particularly at the diocesan and parish levels.

As the Director of Church Relations, Sanders will direct ERD’s programs that serve Episcopal churches and dioceses in the United States. In this role, she will: lead the Speaker’s Guild, volunteers and staff who speak about ERD’s programs to parishes and groups nationwide; oversee the agency’s church programs including youth and annual initiatives; and direct ERD’s developing Volunteer/Service Learning program, a project for adults and youth to spend a week or more at an ERD program site. Sanders will supervise ERD’s Network, a group of volunteers consisting of diocesan coordinators, parish representatives, and seminarian coordinators who actively support and advocate ERD’s ministry.

“ERD is delighted to have Lynn join our team as Director of Church Relations. Lynn will serve as a vital link between ERD and congregations as we partner with parishes around the country to fight poverty and disease and fulfill the Millennium Development Goals,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President.

Before joining ERD, Sanders served as Assistant Rector at Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Austin, Texas. She holds a Master of Divinity degree from Church Divinity School of the Pacific in Berkeley, California, and an MBA. Prior to ordination, she enjoyed a career in business and management consulting in New York. She was an active lay leader at St. Bartholomew’s Church in New York City, and served as a church consultant for the Episcopal Diocese of New York, working with parishes undergoing change.

“Lynn brings a wealth of experience that will be crucial in strengthening our partnerships with parishes in this country and garnering support for ERD’s work around the world,” said Lorenzo Martinez, ERD’s Vice President of External Affairs.

“I am excited to join the ERD team,” said Sanders. “ERD offers powerful, practical ways for all of us in the Episcopal Church to live out the ministry to which we are called in baptism. I look forward to our accomplishing this vital work together,” she said.

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.
 

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) commemorates Africa Malaria Day 2007 on April 25th. The theme for this year, created by the Roll Back Malaria Partnership, is “Leadership and Partnership for Results.” It is also the first Malaria Awareness Day in the United States.

ERD is committed to combating this deadly disease through the NetsforLife^®  malaria prevention program. NetsforLife^®  aims to distribute one million long-lasting insecticide-treated nets and educate three to four million people in 16 countries in sub Saharan Africa. The program teaches people about the disease through community health education and awareness programs. NetsforLife^®  is a partnership of private donors, churches and corporations including Coca-Cola Africa Foundation, Standard Chartered Bank, the Exxon Mobil Foundation and the Starr Foundation.

To date, the program has trained over 2,000 community malaria agents and distributed more than 210,000 long-lasting insecticide-treated nets in countries including Zambia, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo. NetsforLifeSM addresses Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) #1, 4, 5, 6 and 8.

“The malaria problem in Africa goes beyond the walls of health facilities and the health sector to affect almost every aspect of society,” said Stephen Dzisi, ERD’s Program Officer for Africa. “The involvement of, and partnership with, the leadership at various levels of central and local government are therefore crucial for finding any meaningful solution towards reducing the devastation caused by the disease,” said Dzisi.

Africa has the highest malaria infection rate in the world. Each year, an estimated one million people die from malaria worldwide, with close to 90% (900,000) of these deaths occurring in Africa. It is the leading cause of death in children under five years old and kills one in 20 children on the continent.

In Mozambique and Angola, over five million people are infected with malaria each year. ERD is working with the Diocese of Lebombo of the Church of the Province of Southern Africa in Mozambique. So far, 16,500 insecticide-treated nets have been distributed. Close to 384 people in the communities of Maputo, Inhambane and Xai-Xai have been trained in malaria prevention and control techniques. The agents have sensitized over 400,000 community members.

In Angola, ERD has partnered with the Anglican Diocese of Angola in the Uige and Cunene provinces. Since the program began in 2006, more than 16,000 insecticide-treated nets have been issued and over 388 community malaria agents have been taught to educate communities about malaria.

Episcopal Relief and Development, in partnership with Roll Back Malaria, endorses the Global Health Council’s Malaria Community Statement on Africa Malaria Day 2007. The statement is signed by ERD and other organizations fighting the spread of the disease and raising awareness about malaria prevention. Please click here to visit to read the full statement.

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.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) has endorsed the Global Health Council's Malaria Community Statement on Africa Malaria Day 2007. April 25th is Africa Malaria Day; Malaria Awareness Day will be observed for the first time in the U.S.

The Global Health Council is a consortium of governments, faith-based organizations, corporations and organizations dedication to promoting advocacy and awareness on malaria. ERD is an implenting partner of NetsforLifeSM, a malaria prevention program in sub Saharan Africa. NetsforLifeSM is included in the statement.

A Malaria Community Statement –

April 25th is Africa Malaria Day worldwide and the first Malaria Awareness Day in the United States. In observance of this day and in recognition of the tremendous opportunities to reduce the burden that malaria imposes worldwide, we, the undersigned organizations, stand in support of the following statement.

PROGRESS
The progress in fighting malaria in the last few years offers great promise. After too many years of debate, there is now widespread agreement about what works for prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Resources to fight malaria have grown considerably. New spokespersons from the developing world and donor countries have begun to relay key messages. Corporations and multilaterals are working together to replenish the development pipeline and bridge the supply gap of essential prevention tools and treatments. Foundations and other donors have catalyzed investments in new technologies, such as new single dose Artemisinin-based combination Therapies (ACTs), and research into vaccines continues. Some afflicted countries are paving the way for reducing barriers created by import tariffs and malaria service user fees. The world has recognized the toll that malaria takes on the developing world and is poised to respond.

THROUGH PROGRAMS
Since 2003, three major malaria programs have emerged providing over a billion dollars for malaria programming in the hardest hit countries. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria is the single largest source of global malaria funding, providing two-thirds of all international financing. The Fund has approved $2.6 billion in grants for 117 malaria programs over five years in 76 countries and $950 million has been disbursed so far. Since it began in 2005, the World Bank Malaria Booster Program for Africa has dedicated $357 million to support 11 operational projects across 14 countries. The President's Malaria Initiative (PMI) has pledged $1.2 billion to support malaria control programs in 15 African countries.

THROUGH PARTNERSHIP
National governments, international agencies, private donors, advocates, program implementers, faith-based organizations and affected communities have joined forces to fight malaria. Advocacy networks have emerged in the US, the UK, France, Belgium, Cameroon, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Zambia, Kenya, Mali, Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda. Grassroots campaigns exist in the US and the Netherlands. Public-private partnerships continue to work toward new tools and technologies. Many of these partners have come together under the Roll Back Malaria Partnership, a global mechanism committed to effective, coordinated action.

TOWARD RESULTS
Programs are on course to save lives. Global Fund malaria grants have distributed 18 million with Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). In just 18 months of operation, the PMI has purchased over 1 million ACT treatments, protected over 3 million people through spraying campaigns and distributed over 1 million bed nets. The World Bank Booster Program is on track to commit approximately US$500 million in IDA allocations for malaria control efforts in Africa. Public and private partners are developing innovative malaria solutions. Several new, effective and affordable drugs will soon be available with more than 23 types of malaria vaccines at some stage of development and prevention technologies growing increasingly sophisticated.

TOWARD A MALARIA-FREE FUTURE
Ultimately, a malaria-free future will rely on a comprehensive approach addressing the range of health, development and economic challenges facing developing countries. The malaria community applauds the United States' commitment to supporting efforts to reduce the burden of malaria worldwide and encourages a sustainable investment to this cause. We are committed not only to this current period of political good will, but to long-term progress supported by a comprehensive, technically-sound and results-driven strategy.

On Africa Malaria Day and Malaria Awareness Day here in the United States, as representatives of the malaria advocacy community, we call for:

• Continued Leadership from the U.S. and partners at all levels to continue the rapid scale-up of malaria control initiatives.
• Effective Partnership to ensure that needed interventions are reaching the people who need them. Working together we can control malaria.
• Sustained Funding to provide the resources to turn the tide against malaria.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) has endorsed the Global Health Council's Malaria Community Statement on Africa Malaria Day 2007. April 25th is Africa Malaria Day; Malaria Awareness Day will be observed for the first time in the U.S.

The Global Health Council is a consortium of governments, faith-based organizations, corporations and organizations dedication to promoting advocacy and awareness on malaria. ERD is an implenting partner of NetsforLifeSM, a malaria prevention program in sub Saharan Africa. NetsforLifeSM is included in the statement.

A Malaria Community Statement –

April 25th is Africa Malaria Day worldwide and the first Malaria Awareness Day in the United States. In observance of this day and in recognition of the tremendous opportunities to reduce the burden that malaria imposes worldwide, we, the undersigned organizations, stand in support of the following statement.

PROGRESS
The progress in fighting malaria in the last few years offers great promise. After too many years of debate, there is now widespread agreement about what works for prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Resources to fight malaria have grown considerably. New spokespersons from the developing world and donor countries have begun to relay key messages. Corporations and multilaterals are working together to replenish the development pipeline and bridge the supply gap of essential prevention tools and treatments. Foundations and other donors have catalyzed investments in new technologies, such as new single dose Artemisinin-based combination Therapies (ACTs), and research into vaccines continues. Some afflicted countries are paving the way for reducing barriers created by import tariffs and malaria service user fees. The world has recognized the toll that malaria takes on the developing world and is poised to respond.

THROUGH PROGRAMS
Since 2003, three major malaria programs have emerged providing over a billion dollars for malaria programming in the hardest hit countries. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria is the single largest source of global malaria funding, providing two-thirds of all international financing. The Fund has approved $2.6 billion in grants for 117 malaria programs over five years in 76 countries and $950 million has been disbursed so far. Since it began in 2005, the World Bank Malaria Booster Program for Africa has dedicated $357 million to support 11 operational projects across 14 countries. The President's Malaria Initiative (PMI) has pledged $1.2 billion to support malaria control programs in 15 African countries.

THROUGH PARTNERSHIP
National governments, international agencies, private donors, advocates, program implementers, faith-based organizations and affected communities have joined forces to fight malaria. Advocacy networks have emerged in the US, the UK, France, Belgium, Cameroon, Mozambique, Ethiopia, Zambia, Kenya, Mali, Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda. Grassroots campaigns exist in the US and the Netherlands. Public-private partnerships continue to work toward new tools and technologies. Many of these partners have come together under the Roll Back Malaria Partnership, a global mechanism committed to effective, coordinated action.

TOWARD RESULTS
Programs are on course to save lives. Global Fund malaria grants have distributed 18 million with Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). In just 18 months of operation, the PMI has purchased over 1 million ACT treatments, protected over 3 million people through spraying campaigns and distributed over 1 million bed nets. The World Bank Booster Program is on track to commit approximately US$500 million in IDA allocations for malaria control efforts in Africa. Public and private partners are developing innovative malaria solutions. Several new, effective and affordable drugs will soon be available with more than 23 types of malaria vaccines at some stage of development and prevention technologies growing increasingly sophisticated.

TOWARD A MALARIA-FREE FUTURE
Ultimately, a malaria-free future will rely on a comprehensive approach addressing the range of health, development and economic challenges facing developing countries. The malaria community applauds the United States' commitment to supporting efforts to reduce the burden of malaria worldwide and encourages a sustainable investment to this cause. We are committed not only to this current period of political good will, but to long-term progress supported by a comprehensive, technically-sound and results-driven strategy.

On Africa Malaria Day and Malaria Awareness Day here in the United States, as representatives of the malaria advocacy community, we call for:

• Continued Leadership from the U.S. and partners at all levels to continue the rapid scale-up of malaria control initiatives.
• Effective Partnership to ensure that needed interventions are reaching the people who need them. Working together we can control malaria.
• Sustained Funding to provide the resources to turn the tide against malaria.

By ELife Online Staff, April 26, 2007

[ENS, WASHINGTON, DC] In a hearing to mark Africa Malaria Day April 25, Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) testified before a key U.S. congressional subcommittee on the role of faith-based organizations in fighting the malaria pandemic in Africa.

"The Church and other faith communities … are the first point of contact for help," Susan Lassen, a consultant who coordinates ERD's NetsForLife program in malaria control, told the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health.

"Faith communities have long had the ability to build and mobilize a delivery system that will reach the most vulnerable populations who live 'at the end of the road,'" said ERD President Robert W. Radtke.

Unparalleled infrastructure, capacity
"As the global community develops new and innovative methods to control and prevent malaria, the challenge of distribution becomes absolutely critical," Lassen told committee members. "NetsforLife capitalizes on the infrastructure of the Anglican Church to reach vulnerable populations."

The full testimony can be read here.

NetsforLife is a one-year-old initiative of ERD, carried out in partnership with the Anglican Churches of Africa, to distribute one million insecticide-treated malaria-prevention bed nets in 16 sub-Saharan African countries by the end of 2008. Thus far, the program has distributed 213,000 nets in Angola, Zambia, Kenya, Ghana, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Mozambique. It is funded by private individual donors, Churches, the Starr Foundation, the Coca-Cola Africa Foundation, the ExxonMobil Foundation, and Standard Chartered Bank. To learn more about NetsForLife, visit er-d.org/malaria

Also testifying at the hearing were Admiral Tim Ziemer, coordinator of the United States President's Malaria Initiative; Mark Grabowski, Malaria program manager for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Enid Wamani, secretariat coordinator for the Uganda Malaria and Childhood Illness organization; Dr. Nils Daulaire, president of the Global Health Council; and Adel Chaouch of Marathon Oil and the Corporate Alliance on Malaria in Africa.

Bed nets are large sheets of insecticide-treated meshing designed to be draped over the beds or sleeping areas of people living in regions where malaria is prevalent. The nets shield users from malaria-carrying mosquitoes, which spread the disease during night hours.

Health-care professionals consider net use fundamental to efforts to prevent the spread of the disease, which causes more than 300 million acute illnesses and at least one-million deaths each year in developing countries.

"A mother and her two children can be protected from malaria for five years for a total cost of approximately $12," ERD told the subcommittee, explaining that this cost reflects not only the price of the net but also training in proper use, education in other methods to prevent malaria, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation.

An emerging consensus
In addition to ERD's focus on mobilizing the infrastructures of African Churches, the Episcopal Church is supporting malaria-control efforts through its advocacy to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), said Alex Baumgarten, international policy analyst in the Church's Office of Government Relations in Washington, D.C. Goal 6 of the MDGs is "combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases."

"The advocacy of Episcopalians through the ONE Episcopalian campaign is playing an important role in building a new consensus in the U.S. Congress and Administration that fighting deadly poverty and disease throughout the world should stand at the forefront of our nation's foreign policy," said Baumgarten.

Since the beginning of 2007, Congress has approved more than $1.3 billion in increased funding for anti-poverty and disease initiatives, with the Senate voting to further increase funding over the coming year by an additional $2 billion.

"The understanding among U.S. policymakers of the relationship between poverty and disease and its affect on conflict and global stability is light years ahead of where it was two or three years ago," said Baumgarten.

President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush addressed the importance of malaria-control efforts in comments yesterday in the White House Rose Garden to commemorate Africa Malaria Day. Speaking about the eradication of malaria in the United States in the 1950s, President Bush said, "We’ve solved this problem before. And the fundamental question is: do we have the will to do the same thing on another continent? That's really the question that faces this country and other nations around the world. My commitment is: you bet we have the will. And we've got a strategy to do so."

"Defeating malaria is going to be a challenge, but it's not going to require a miracle," said the President. "That's what I'm here to tell you. It's going to require a smart and sustained campaign."

The Rose Garden ceremony highlighted the work of the President's Malaria Initiative (PMI), a five-year $1.2 billion initiative to spur government partnership with private organizations, including faith-based institutions, in the fight against malaria. Baumgarten said that the Episcopal Church is actively advocating for maximum congressional funding of PMI and related efforts.

Wholeness and wellbeing
In her testimony, Lassen also stressed the unique level of commitment and energy that faith communities draw from their theological background and experiences: "For the faithful of Africa…their core identity is shaped by the sense that God is using them to help draw their communities into the wholeness and wellbeing he intended for them when he created the world and proclaimed it good."

Lassen told subcommittee members of an Angolan woman named Malita who lost a child to malaria but has since been trained by NetsForLife as a community malaria leader. Describing people like Malita as the "hands and feet" of NetsForLife, Lassen concluded her testimony by telling lawmakers that "If she was here today, Malita would say: 'God is good all the time. All the time God is good.'"

Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Episcopal Diocese of the Dominican Republic and Clinicia Esperanza y Caridad, an Episcopal medical clinic located in the southeastern coastal city of San Pedro de Macoris.

Promoting Health and Fighting Disease

• Community health promoters conduct health education outreach activities focused on maternal and infant health, nutrition, HIV/AIDS, malaria and dengue fever prevention.
   
• Over the last three years, 250 local residents have been trained to conduct health education and basic medical evaluations on a volunteer basis in both rural and urban communities.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) held its annual Network Meeting from May 17-20 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The theme of this year’s meeting was “Partners in Hope, Partners in Life.”

The ERD Network is a group of volunteers who support and promote ERD and its programs throughout Episcopal parishes, dioceses, and seminaries. A total of 138 attendees representing 67 Episcopal dioceses and six seminaries attended the meeting which is held each year specifically for diocesan and seminarian coordinators. Currently, there are close to 3,000 members in the network, which also includes over 2800 parish representatives.

“The Network Meeting generated fresh energy and vision for working together as partners to bring God’s hope and life to the world,” said the Rev. Lynn Sanders, ERD’s Director of Church Relations.

Suraya Yahaya Bowermaster, ERD Diocesan Coordinator for the Diocese of Colorado, felt a renewed sense of hope and gratitude. “I've come away from the Network meeting renewed and with a sense of gratitude and hope,” said Bowermaster. “Gratitude for the people from all walks of life who respond to the needs of people whom they’ve never met. Hope because this response is proof that despite our differences, there is a way for us to work together for a common good. I am grateful to see the work that ERD has helped support so far, and excited about the work that we’re going to do,” she said.

A tribute was made to the late Canon Joyce Hogg, former ERD Network Coordinator. Workshops were offered on topics such as ‘Reaching out to Dioceses, Parishes, and Seminaries’ and ‘Public Speaking for ERD’ which was given by Dale Delitis and Debbie Simon, both professional speech trainers. Abagail Nelson, ERD’s Vice President for Program, moderated a discussion tilted ‘International Panel: Planting the Seeds of Development in Relief Work.’ Special guests and panelists included the Most Rev. Martin Barahona, Primate for the Anglican Church of Central America and Bishop of El Salvador; Ramón Aristides Valencia Arana, Executive Director of the Mangrove Association, El Salvador, partner to the Diocese of El Salvador; and Sanjana Das, Coordinator, Children’s Concerns of the Church of North India.

Network coordinators visited ERD supported Katrina recovery sites in New Orleans and Mississippi. Reflecting on his visit, Bishop Barahona said, “It affected me deeply to see the devastation of Katrina. I long to see the end to suffering and the reunification of families after this crisis.”

Robert Radtke, ERD President, was proud of the steps the Dioceses of Mississippi and Louisiana have taken to rebuild communities devastated by Katrina. “It was powerful and moving to witness the programs that the Dioceses of Mississippi and Louisiana are carrying out under the leadership of Bishops Gray and Jenkins and in partnership with ERD. It was gratifying to see the beginning of hope return to these devastated communities and give honor to the work of the Network Coordinators in making this possible,” said Radtke.

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.

Episcopal Relief and Development celebrates World Environment Day 2007. World Environment Day was designated as June 5th to promote awareness of the environment.

ERD supports environmental sustainability and development through its food security and primary health programs worldwide. Our programs assist communities worldwide through forestry projects such as planting trees, creating tree nurseries, and maintaining woodlots. Farmers are taught new agricultural training techniques that help to correct poor farming practices that cause degradation to vast amounts of land, leaving it barren.

In Haiti, only 2% of the country is forested and 6,000 hectares of once-arable land is destroyed annually due to soil erosion. ERD’s partnership with the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti and the Haiti Fund has managed the Comprehensive Development Project (CODEP), a reforestation and agricultural training center. In response to deforestation in Haiti’s mountain regions, the partnership has established over 870,000 meters of hedgerows, 60,000 meters of contour canals, and planted over 2,000,000 forest trees and 105,000 fruit trees since 2000.

In the Philippines, ERD is working with the Diocese of Central Philippines in the Rizal Province to teach farmers of the dangers of “kaingin”. “Kaingin” is a type of farming where mountain sides are burned and planted with cash crops. In response to community concerns, ERD is assisting the Diocese in creating a community farm. Coffee and fruit from the mountainous Central region of the country are in high demand due to better taste and quality. Bananas, coffee, and fruit will be planted on the farm and will serve as a source of income for farmers and help stop the practice of “kaingin” farming.

“Careful stewardship of land and water resources is a central component of ERD’s agricultural programs,” said Abagail Nelson, ERD’s Vice President for Programs. “Crop rotation, reforestation, and other integrated efforts have both a positive influence on the environment and helps to sustain the lives that depend on that environment,” said Nelson.

ERD’s programs help to save lives and teach people how to appreciate and value planet Earth.

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.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) has been awarded a grant from the M A C AIDS Fund. The grant will help launch the program, Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission (PMTCT), a partnership between ERD and the Zambian Anglican Council (ZAC), in Livingstone, Zambia. The award is for year one of the program with a possibility for additional funds in 2008.

Worldwide, there are 40 million people living with HIV and AIDS with two million succumbing to the virus each year. Southern Africa remains the epicenter of the pandemic. In Zambia, people have limited access to counseling and testing so that many women who are pregnant may not be sure of their status. Even if they know their HIV status, they may be unable to secure treatment. A lack of maternal health services denies many expectant mothers a healthy and safe birth. For the newborn baby of an HIV infected woman, this means that they are at 40% risk of contracting HIV during or following their birth. HIV prevalence is a significant factor in keeping infant mortality rates unacceptably high in Africa.

ERD is working with the ZAC to launch the PMTCT program that targets pregnant women for a community-wide educational and treatment program. The project will be conducted through the Livingstone Anglican Children’s project in the regions of Ngwena, Maramba, Namatama, Libuya, and nearby compounds in the Livingstone area.

“Episcopal Relief and Development is honored to have been awarded this grant from the M A C AIDS Fund,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. “This generous support will help ERD further its work in the area primary health and save the lives of vulnerable people worldwide, particularly newborn babies,” said Radtke.

Through this program partnership, ERD is educating mothers and their partners on key preventative mother-to-child transmission methods, mobilizing pregnant woman to access information about PMTCT, and providing voluntary counseling and testing. PMTCT also aims to increase awareness and knowledge of sexual practices among women of childbearing age, prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS to children, and encourage participation in the health centers’ post-natal services.

Pregnant women will be recruited to serve as counselors. The counselors will teach other pregnant women the connection between the transmission of the HIV/AIDS virus and pregnancy, labor, delivery, and breastfeeding. Women will also learn how mediation can work at each of those stages.

“This is such an affirmation for the women involved in this program. These are mothers finding a way to live with HIV. They are determined to give their new babies the best possible start in life,” said Janette O’Neill, ERD’s Senior Director for Africa Programs.

Nancy Mahon, Vice President of M A C Cosmetics and Executive Director of the M A C AIDS Fund said, “Evidence from North America and Europe shows that providing a mother with a full range of PMTCT services can reduce the risk of transmission to less than two percent. Despite the current statistics in Zambia, by partnering with ERD and supporting its work, we are hoping to reduce mother-to-child transmission in the region to zero,” said Mahon

The M A C AIDS Fund was established in 1994 by M A C Cosmetics to support men, women, and children suffering from AIDS. With profits from the sale of the company’s highly successful VIVA GLAM lipstick collection, M A C has provided over $90 million (US) for the M A C AIDS Fund.

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.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) commemorates World Refugee Day 2007. The day is commemorated each year on June 20th to recognize the plight of refugees worldwide. This year’s theme is “A New Home, a New Life.” An estimated 15 million people worldwide have been forced to flee their country.

ERD’s programs help refugees and internally displaced people (IDPs) around the world. After emergencies, ERD serves vulnerable families displaced from their homes with food, medicines, temporary shelter, and access to clean water. Through our long-term response and integrated development programs, displaced persons are able to rebuild their communities.

In the Sudan, two million people have been displaced from their homes and an estimated 300,000 people have lost their lives due to civil war. ERD is working in collaboration with the Sudan Development and Relief Agency (SUDRA) and the Dioceses of El Obeid, Port Sudan, and Malakal. In El Obeid, a leadership program has been created to strengthen the skills of diocesan staff, computer training classes are now being provided for young people in Port Sudan, and a health clinic has been restored in Malakal. ERD is also working in partnership with Windle Trust to strengthen the skills of health workers presently working in Southern Sudan who were unable to access significant training during the war.

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.
 

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is supporting “Hallelujah Housing,” a program building affordable homes along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

The Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi and ERD have entered a joint partnership with Enterprise Corporation of the Delta/Hope Community Credit Union and the Unity Homes Project to construct homes for Gulf Coast families who lost their property in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Along the Gulf Coast, 65,000 homes were destroyed by the storm. Presently, 30,000 families are still living in FEMA trailers. Affordable housing will be constructed in the coastal Mississippi counties of Hancock, Harrison, and Jackson.

After the storms, many insurance companies have not made funds available to assist in the rebuilding, particularly for low income families and the working poor who lost homes on the Gulf Coast.

“Episcopal Relief and Development is excited to expand its partnership with the Diocese of Mississippi,” stated Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. “The ‘Hallelujah Housing’ program will help Mississippians return to their homes and allow people who have never owned property in the region to become first-time home buyers.”

“This kind of prophetic initiative would not be possible without the generosity of countless Episcopalians on whose behalf we work,” continued Radtke.

“It is our desire that the Diocese become a beacon of hope for the thousands of persons who have lost their homes and today find moving “home again” almost impossible,” said the Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi.

The “Hallelujah Housing” program aims to build at least 300-400 affordable homes for people who live at 60% to 80% of Average Median Income (AMI) rebuild their homes or become first-time home owners. By 2009, the program plans to help at least 100 single mothers buy their own homes. With the assistance of a Grant Administrator, the Diocese of Mississippi will keep track of every home and home owner to assure that each family has access to home owner education and other case management resources. This approach will help keep default rates low.

“Many times, people below the poverty-line are forgotten during the recovery process. This is where ‘Hallelujah Housing’ will focus its energy,” commented Richard Ohlsen, ERD’s Director of Domestic Disaster Preparedness and Response.

“It’s great that the Diocese has partnered with so many groups to make ‘Hallelujah Housing’ a success because working as a team increases what one organization can accomplish,” said Ohlsen.

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.

On this day, Episcopal Relief and Development recognizes the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. In 2005, Katrina, a powerful Category 3 storm, slammed onto the Gulf Coast forever changing the lives of people in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.

ERD and it’s partners have been active in the Gulf Coast through three to five year long-term recovery programs that focus on rebuilding homes and small businesses, providing case management services, creating a framework for medical and volunteer services, and offering psychosocial counseling for people affected by Katrina.

A place to call Home: Avon Marie Dennis’ Story

Along the Gulf Coast, over 270,000 homes were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. In Louisiana, ERD partnered with the Diocese of Louisiana and Whitney Community Bank to create the Jericho Road Episcopal Housing Initiative. The program plans to construct 500 affordable homes over the next five to seven years.

Avon Marie Dennis became Jericho Road’s first homeowner after paying rent for more than 50 years. After Hurricane Katrina, Ms. Dennis never imagined that she could ever afford to own a home of her own. Upon submitting an application with Jericho Road, Ms. Dennis took two homeowners education classes and was impressed by Jericho Road’s program and staff. Ms. Dennis describes her new home as “beautiful” and that “without Jericho Road, I would be renting”.

“Episcopal Relief and Development is honored to participate in the rebuilding of the Gulf Coast. Having Ms. Dennis as Jericho Road’s first resident symbolizes hope for the future of Greater New Orleans,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. “ERD and Jericho Road Episcopal Housing Initiative aim to empower returning New Orleans residents the benefits and advantages of home ownership.”

Brad Powers, Jericho Road’s Executive Director is happy to welcome Ms. Dennis to the neighborhood and he is proud to be part of a program so important to individuals, families, and the City of New Orleans. “Many people think that they cannot afford to own a home. They may have had trouble with buying a home in the past. We are helping people achieve the American dream,” said Powers.

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.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) and Hallelujah Housing welcomed Larry and Bernice Johnson to their new home in Pass Christian, Mississippi.

On Wednesday, August 29 at 10:30am (C.T) exactly two years after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Mississippi Coast, a group of local leaders, neighbors, advocates, faith-based, groups, and nonprofit organizations gathered at 319 Hiern Avenue for a house blessing ceremony lead by the Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi.

“This is an occasion to rejoice,” said Bishop Gray. “We see in this home the first of hundreds of families who will be restored and who will become the cornerstone of a revitalized Gulf Coast. It is a tangible example of what must be done to heal our people and our region.”

“Although today is a day of remembrance, it is also a day of joy in celebration of the future of the Mississippi Coast,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. “This home represents ERD’s commitment to Hallelujah Housing’s mission of giving people along the Mississippi Gulf a new start as they continue to rebuild their lives,” said Radtke.

The Johnson’s new home is the first Hallelujah House built through the Hallelujah Housing program, collaboration between Episcopal Relief and Development, the Episcopal Diocese of Mississippi, Delta/ Hope Community Credit Union (HOPE), and Enterprise Corporation. An additional 400 homes are planned to be built by 2015 with 100 homes reserved for single mothers by 2009 in the costal Mississippi counties of Hancock, Harrison, and Jackson.

“We are excited about this opportunity to collaborate with a strong coalition of partners who are committed to rebuilding the Gulf Coast,” said Bill Bynum, CEO of Delta/Hope Community Credit Union (HOPE) who is proud of this monumental achievement by Hallelujah Housing. “It is particularly noteworthy that our partners are targeting resources to residents with lower incomes. We simply must find the quickest, safest, and most affordable solutions we can to provide people with the opportunity to find a place they can call home,” said Bynum.

Mr. and Mrs. Johnson expressed their joy of moving into their new home. “We cannot express how much this opportunity means to us,” said Larry Johnson. “We would still be stuck in limbo if Hallelujah Housing had not decided to do something about creating real solutions for people.”

“I’m looking forward to having our own space and something that feels permanent after two years of always feeling like things were hanging by a thread. My only regret is that so many of our neighbors are still waiting for a miracle like ours”, said Mrs. Johnson.

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.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) remembers the sixth anniversary of the September 11th terror attacks. The tragedy was the largest human-made disaster in the US.

In addition to emergency relief supplied to those directly affected by the catastrophe and others assisting in relief and recovery efforts, ERD provided long-term support helping to rebuild the lives of those affected. Working with partners including the Episcopal Dioceses of New York, Newark, Long Island, Connecticut, Maryland, Virginia, and Nevada, Episcopal Charities of New York and the New York Disaster Interfaith Services, ERD’s rehabilitation program gave individuals directly and indirectly impacted by September 11th, including survivors and their families, counseling, case management services and other basic necessities.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone mourning this day,” said Richard Ohlsen, ERD’s Director of Domestic Disaster Response and Preparedness. This is not only a time to remember those who lost their lives, but to be reminded that we have to be prepared to help our fellow neighbors in times of crisis,” said Ohlsen.

September designated as national disaster preparedness month
ERD is supporting the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s initiative encouraging people to be ready for emergencies. National disaster preparedness month is aimed at providing people with helpful resources in case of natural and human-made disasters such as a flood, chemical threat or explosion.

“ERD’s Domestic Disaster Response and Preparedness Program is working in partnership with Episcopal dioceses and social service agencies as well as ecumenical, local, state and federal networks to ensure we are actively engaged and able to respond when the next disaster strikes,” said Ohlsen.

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.

Episcopal Relief and Development’s (ERD) NetsforLife^® malaria partnership is providing life saving protection to children and families in 16 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The program is protecting close to 700,000 people, including mothers and vulnerable children who are most susceptible to contracting the disease.

The NetsforLife partnership encompasses ERD and a number of private individuals and corporations including ExxonMobil Foundation, Standard Chartered Bank and the Coca-Cola Africa Foundation. Christian Aid is playing a key role as well. The Episcopal Church’s Millennium Development Goal Inspiration Fund supports NetsforLife.

In its second year, NetsforLife^® has distributed 328,708 long-lasting insecticide-treated nets in eight countries including Angola, Zambia and Kenya as of June 2007. The program has trained more than 3,400 malaria agents, or community volunteers, who have reached over 500,000 people directly with malaria prevention messages.

“In sample areas where ERD has evaluated NetsforLife’s outcomes, knowledge of malaria transmission has increased from a baseline figure of 50% to 80% of the population,” said Dr. Stephen Dzisi, who was recently appointed Director of NetsforLife^®. “Increased knowledge in a community dramatically increases its health and can be observed in Angola, Burundi, Kenya and Mozambique,” remarked Dzisi.

NetsforLife was recognized during the White House Summit on Malaria last December, and in April, ERD testified in Congress to the Foreign Affairs sub-committee on Africa and Global Health.

Each day, approximately 3,000 children die from malaria. “NetsforLife^® ensures that as part of its education programs caregivers are able to recognize childhood malaria at the home level and take appropriate steps towards effective treatment and care,” said Dzisi. “Overall, there has been an increase in the proportion of caregivers who can identify a child with malaria from about 58% to 80%. Remarkable improvements were noted in Angola, Burundi and Mozambique,” stated Dzisi.

NetsforLife also aims to increase communities’ knowledge about the new and most effective Artemisinine-based Combination Therapy (ACTs), particularly as treatment policies change across Africa. Thus far, knowledge of ACTs has risen from almost 10% to over 40%.

Dzisi promoted as new NetsforLife^® director

“Stephen has worked to carry out NetsforLife^® with implementing partners in 16 African countries and has been instrumental in designing the program’s monitoring and evaluation protocols,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. In this new role, Dzisi will oversee the day-to-day management of NetsforLife^®.

Prior to joining ERD as the Program Officer for Africa in 2006, Dzisi was a project officer for UNICEF and held various positions in Ghana’s health care system. He holds a Master of Science in International Health from Humboldt University in Berlin and earned his medical degree from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ghana. Dzisi is an expert in infant and child mortality in Africa.

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.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) announces a competition seeking the most effective and comprehensive Episcopal Diocesan Emergency Plan. All dioceses are encouraged to participate in this first time contest which begins September 28, coinciding with the end of National Disaster Preparedness Month.

The contest is sponsored by Episcopal Relief and Development. Domestically, ERD works to provide relief and rebuild communities devastated by disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina and September 11th. The effort is spearheaded as part of ERD’s Domestic Disaster Response and Preparedness Program. This program aims to equip and train dioceses and parishes to organize a cooperated response, protect their facilities and deliver relief to communities after emergencies.

Criteria for the Episcopal Diocesan Emergency Plan competition include measuring the effectiveness of the guideline and actionable documentation in which the diocese will support an affected community in their response and recovery.

An independent panel of four judges with a combination of expertise in Emergency Management and direct knowledge of the Episcopal Church will serve as judges. The judges will select three dioceses who will receive funding from ERD totaling $40,000 dollars ($25,000 for first place, $10,000 for second place, and $5,000 for third place) for their emergency preparedness and response program.

Each diocese’s plan will be individually judged and rated according to standards such as integration into community and government networks, alert and notification procedures, accountability process and requirements as well as partnerships made with other Episcopal dioceses.

“ERD hopes that this initiative will inspire dioceses to think creatively about what their call will be in response to disasters. Houses of worship are often the first place people turn in times of crisis, as I witnessed first hand in the aftermath of Katrina,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. “Helping to prepare the dioceses of the Episcopal Church to carry out their ministries in the event of an emergency is a key priority for ERD,” continued Radtke.

“Our goal is that all dioceses and church institutions will be equipped with an integrated plan and Emergency Coordinator to immediately and efficiently respond if or when their communities’ are faced with an emergency,” said Richard Ohlsen, ERD’s Director of Domestic Disaster Response and Preparedness.

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, Episcopal Relief and Development’s programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Working with the worldwide church and ecumenically, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is proud to announce the receipt of a grant from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) under the Malaria Communities Program (MCP). Episcopal Relief and Development is one of five organizations awarded the grant. Other recipients include Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, Lutheran World Relief, Minnesota International Health Volunteers, and Christian Social Sciences Commission.

Through a five-year $1.5 million grant, Episcopal Relief and Development will work in partnership with the Anglican Church of Angola to implement a malaria prevention program in Angola. The program will reach a total population of 90,896 people; including 18,179 children under five years old, 11,388 pregnant women, and 3,454 people infected with HIV/AIDS. Working in collaboration with NetsforLifeSM , the initiative will expand the use of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLITNs) by pregnant women and children under five years old, build awareness of malaria transmission and treatment, and ensure that pregnant women receive Intermittent Preventative Therapy (IPT), a prophylactic treatment that prevents malaria infection.

“We want to strengthen the ability of faith based and community organizations to fight malaria, while also building local ownership,” said Adm. R. Tim Ziemer, U.S. Malaria Coordinator. “Groups with local connections that have worked to build trust and provide hope are key partners in the effort to combat malaria at a local level,” continued Adm. Ziemer.

The Malaria Communities Program is a $30 million initiative created under the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) to aid the efforts of communities and local organizations to fight malaria in Africa. The Malaria Communities Program specifically identifies organizations that are new to working with the U.S. Government and are uniquely positioned to work at the community level.

“Episcopal Relief and Development is honored to receive this generous grant through the President’s Malaria Initiative supporting our malaria prevention program in Angola,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. “This program is part of our NetsforLifeSM initiative, a grassroots partnership in 16 sub-Saharan African countries that mobilizes communities to combat malaria through education, training, as well as the proper and consistent use of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets,” continued Radtke.

The program hopes to increase local capacity to support community-based malaria prevention and treatment activities and encourage local interests to become proactive in combating malaria in their communities for the long term. Keeping in terms of the grant, ERD will collaborate with the Anglican Church of Angola, the Angolan Ministry of Health and the National Malaria Control Program.

“Partnering with the Anglican Church of Angola, we are working with local community members to teach people effective ways to prevent the spread of the disease so they become empowered to protect themselves and their families. Empowerment saves lives,” said Radtke.

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, Episcopal Relief and Development’s programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Working with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the holiday season, a time of celebration and abundance, a time of family and food. It is a season of plenty for the “haves” of the world, a time of continued deprivation for the “have-nots.”

Imagine sitting down to dinner on Thanksgiving and not having anything to feed your children. Imagine that this happens several nights a week. This is a reality for 815 million people around the world. Each day 30,000 children die from hunger-related causes. Food fulfills one of the most basic human needs, yet millions of people are chronically undernourished.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

In Ghana, Mariama struggled to feed her six children by tending to her small plot of land in a region plagued by persistent drought.

Thanks to a program run by Episcopal Relief and Development in partnership with the Diocese of Tamale and the Anglican Diocesan Development and Relief Organization, Mariama was trained in dry season vegetable gardening and given capital of $100 to join a farming cooperative.

The group cultivated two acres of vegetable gardens and manufactured a popular local drink that was sold at market alongside their vegetables. Within one year, the cooperative earned a profit of over $3,000 and was able to expand their farming activities.

“Before the program we could hardly feed ourselves and our families,” Mariama explains. “Now we can feed, clothe and educate our children and still have some money with which to expand our business.”

Hunger is the most extreme form of poverty. With hunger there can be no hope. By empowering people like Mariama to break the cycle of poverty and enjoy a life of dignity and plenty you can create hope. During this season of abundance, you can provide the tools so that the hungry can feed themselves.

Together we can:

• Offer seeds and tools so communities can grow better crops, improve nutrition and increase their yield in areas where poverty limits resources and access to food;
• Provide training and opportunities for people to create and operate small businesses and expand their sources of income; and
• Supply families with healthy animals for food and income. Alleviating hunger saves lives and transforms communities. Please join us in our work as we share our bounty and celebrate the true meaning of Thanksgiving.

Thank you for your generous support. Yes, I want to help people to feed themselves.

$ 80 provides a goat for one family.
$135 provides a flock of chicken to one family.
$180 provides a family one drought-resistant seeds and farming tools.
$550 provides a family with a cow.
$_______ to be used where most needed.

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, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief and Development remembers people affected by HIV/AIDS around the world. According to the latest UNAIDS statistics, the number of people living with the disease has dropped from close to 40 million to roughly 33 million in 2007. The theme of this year’s World AIDS Day is “Keep the Promise -Take the Lead”, highlighting the need for strong and dedicated leaders from all levels of society to join the effort to prevent and combat this deadly disease.

Episcopal Relief and Development has HIV/AIDS programs in countries most devastated by the disease such as Honduras, DR Congo, Burundi, Namibia, Peru, Tanzania, South Africa, the Dominican Republic, Swaziland, Botswana, El Salvador and many others. Working in partnership with the worldwide Church and ecumenical agencies, Episcopal Relief and Development is committed to fighting HIV/AIDS by offering prevention education and training to vulnerable communities, providing economic opportunities and caring for people living with HIV/AIDS, supporting orphaned children and families left behind and most recently, preventing mother-to-child transmission.

Preventing Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTC) program

An estimated 30,000 infants become infected with HIV annually through mother-to-child transmission. With a grant from the MAC AIDS Fund, Episcopal Relief and Development recently launched a PMTCT program to prevent mother-to-child transmission in Zambia. This pilot program is being implemented in partnership with the Zambian Anglican Council in the regions of Ngwena, Maramba, Namatama, Libuya, and nearby compounds around Livingstone. It is estimated that 40 percent of pregnant women in these regions are HIV-positive - the highest rates in Zambia. The program encourages HIV-positive pregnant women to use prenatal services and deliver their babies at health centers so they may be treated with nevirapine, an antiretroviral drug that reduces the transmission of HIV from mother to infant. Through trained volunteer motivators, focus group discussions and door-to-door visits, the program is raising awareness in affected communities about the mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

Viola Gets a Second Chance

Viola, a young woman from Burundi, understands the stigma of AIDS. After she was diagnosed with HIV, her neighbors shunned her. Viola was left to fend for herself. To her neighbors, her community, she was already dead.

With no money, no hope for living, Viola felt dead-her heart was broken.

But unknown to Viola, a resurrection was already underway. Thanks to ERD, the Anglican Church of Burundi –and the gifts of friends like you-Viola found a second chance at life.

Through a micro-credit loan program with the local church, Viola received AIDS counseling. She learned how to cope and survive on her own with the disease. Most importantly, Viola received a small loan to start her own food shop selling produce and other critical food supplies. It didn’t take long for her business to flourish-along with her outlook on life. She discovered a sense of purpose, something she had lost since her diagnosis. And, to her surprise, public opinion in her community changed.

Suddenly, the threat of Viola’s condition disappeared. Neighbors who once were wary of Viola now buy food from her store to feed their families. She even sold products to members of her community at a reduced price. Today, Viola is an asset to the community- a confident businesswoman and role model for women and community members living with HIV/AIDS.

Changing Lives and Keeping the Promise
On World AIDS Day, December 1st, you can join millions of people in the fight against HIV/AIDS your own local community and worldwide. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:

• Pray for the over 33 million people living with HIV/AIDS and the children and families left behind.
• Remember the 25 million people who have died of AIDS.
• Educate yourself and others about the disease and its impact on people everywhere.# Give a
• Give a donation that will help vulnerable people and communities fight this deadly disease

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, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

3/8/2007

Today, Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD) commemorates International Women’s Day 2007. As part of ERD’s work implementing the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), its programs worldwide equip and empower women and transform communities. Through 29 programs in 20 countries such as the Philippines, Angola and El Salvador, ERD is addressing the needs of women.

“Episcopal Relief & Development moves beyond recognizing women as recipients of development services and believes that promoting women empowerment by providing women with resources to make concrete choices to alter their personal well-being and that of their families, communities and countries,” said Katherine Krall, ERD Research and Evaluation Officer.

ERD’s partnerships promote cooperative gender relationships by opening up conversations between men and women. These dialogues fight stereotypes and cultural beliefs that prevent women from becoming active members of society. Instead, women are recognized as vital agents in the development process.

Working in partnering with the Church of South India, ERD supports self-help groups that train women to become entrepreneurs. Women produce and sell marketable products such as candles and food items. The participants’ self-esteem grows substantially because the women form working relationships with one another. Economic empowerment fosters pride in their ability to contribute towards the education and well-being of their children.

Roni is a member of a self-help group in a town near Colachel in South India. She makes candles and stated, “Until I joined the group, I had little hope. Now I am glad that I can help support my family and my sons can go to school.”

To make a contribution to Episcopal Relief & Development, please visit http://www.er-d.org/ or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & 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.

6/22/2007

At the official launch of the Women’s Development Fund hosted by the Seattle Women’s Development Council, Laura Ellen Muglia (center) stands with (L-R) Brian Sellers-Petersen, ERD Senior Major Gifts Officer, Lorenzo Martinez, ERD Vice President of External Affairs, and Robert W. Radtke, ERD President.

Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD) received a leadership gift to support its programs working with women globally to fight disease, hunger, and poverty, announced Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. The gift was given by the Laura Ellen and Robert Muglia Family Foundation.

Close to eighty percent of ERD’s program beneficiaries are women. ERD’s integrated community development programs give women access to resources and tools which promote self-reliance and support families and communities worldwide. With Anglican and ecumenical partners, ERD works with local communities to: protect women and their children from preventable diseases such as HIV/AIDS and malaria; provide opportunities for women to earn an income through small business development programs; and teach women improved farming techniques.

“I am delighted that ERD’s Women’s Development Fund has been launched with an extraordinarily generous gift of $1 million from the Laura Ellen and Robert Muglia Family Foundation,” stated Radtke. “The Women’s Development Fund will support women’s empowerment strategies in all ERD’s programs—from eradicating malaria, to fighting hunger to ensuring safe drinking water and basic health care,” he said.

Laura Ellen and Bob Muglia believe that their gift will help in the social and economic empowerment of women around the world. “God calls us to eradicate poverty. I have seen firsthand how ERD enables women and their families to lift themselves out of poverty and become leaders in their communities,” said Laura Ellen Muglia. “With this gift, Bob and I are investing in women’s futures. ERD’s sustainable development programs transform lives and empower people,” she said. WW

Through the generosity of Laura Ellen and Bob Muglia, the Women’s Development Fund, which enables the empowerment of women through ERD’s ongoing programs that focus on primary health and food security, was launched on Thursday, June 21st, at The Edgewater in Seattle, Washington. At a gathering of friends and donors hosted by Laura Ellen Muglia and the Seattle Women’s Development Council, the Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, Radtke, and well over 200 people attended the launch.

The Rt. Rev. Nedi Rivera, Suffragan Bishop of the Diocese of Olympia and Honorary Chair of the Seattle Women’s Development Council, opened the dinner by welcoming guests and introducing the Presiding Bishop. A few notable attendees included: Sandra Swan, ERD President Emerita; Kurt DelBene, ERD Board Member; The Rt. Rev. and Mrs. Cabell Tennis, Former Bishop of the Diocese of Delaware; and the Very Rev. Robert Taylor, Dean of St. Mark’s Cathedral in Seattle.

Dent Davidson, Associate for Liturgical Arts at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Medina, provided music throughout the evening. Jim and Catherine Blundell, musicians at St. Thomas, led guests in “Shosholoza”, a well-know traditional Southern African folk song. During the event, guests viewed photographs of women from ERD’s programs worldwide.

During her speech, Bishop Jefferts Schori underscored the importance of ERD’s work in achieving the Millennium Development Goals and focusing on Matthew’s gospel to feed the hungry, heal the sick, and clothe the naked. “The work of ERD is especially focused on helping the least of these, and it grows out of an understanding of our interconnectedness, at all levels,” remarked Bishop Jefferts Schori. “ERD’s work is rooted in capacity building, gender empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Capacity building understands that the poor have gifts with which can be self-empowering, and that a hand up is far more effective in the long term than a hand out.”

ERD is changing the lives of women in communities around the world. For example, in partnership with the Province of the Church of Burundi, ERD is helping women living with HIV/AIDS establish small businesses focused on trade, small livestock, and fruit and vegetable gardening. Many of these women were unable to support their families and contribute to their community due to the social stigma of HIV/AIDS. Through this program, women make a valuable contribution to their communities by operating businesses that cater to the needs of the community. They are able to use the income to purchase food and medicine for their families. Above all, the women’s self-esteem increases substantially.

“Our work is undergirded by the Millennium Development Goals, including gender empowerment (MDG 3) and maternal health (MDG 5),” said Abagail Nelson, ERD’s Vice President for Programs. “At ERD, we recognize that women are vital members of their communities, serving as breadwinners, caregivers, and teachers.”

“When women are empowered, they become the greatest contributors to transformation in the lives of their families and communities,” said Bishop Jefferts Schori. “Many women worldwide do not have the opportunity to reach their full potential as local and global citizens. Episcopal Relief & Development is fully committed to empowering women and improving the lives of their families and neighbors through supporting the Millennium Development Goals,” said Bishop Jefferts Schori.

Because of the generous leadership gift from the Laura Ellen and Robert Muglia Family Foundation along with additional contributions, ERD has set a goal to raise another $1 million from individuals, parishes, dioceses, and other institutions in the western part of the United States by the end of 2007.

Episcopal Relief & 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.

12/17/2007

Episcopal Relief and Development is pleased to announce the publication of the 2008 Lenten Devotional, entitled “Seeking to Serve: A Lenten Exploration of the Millennium Development Goals,” by the Rev. Jay Sidebotham, Rector of Church of the Holy Spirit in Lake Forest, Illinois.

The devotional features illustrations and meditations on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and offers ways for parishioners to help achieve these life-saving goals.

Serving as a complement to the Daily Office Lectionary, the devotional invites Episcopalians to reflect on the role of God’s grace in our lives and how we may act as instruments of God's healing in a hurting world. The 2008 Lenten Season will be a special one thanks to the Presiding Bishop’s declaration of Sunday, February 10th as Episcopal Relief and Development Sunday.

“We are extremely proud of this year’s publication and its focus on raising awareness of the Millennium Development Goals,” said Robert W. Radtke, ERD President. “We hope that congregations nationwide will support our efforts worldwide to help our neighbors in need by participating in Episcopal Relief and Development Sunday,” said Radtke.

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, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

After the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Episcopal Relief and Development developed collaborative relationships with several South Asian partners to implement relief and recovery programming.

Episcopal Relief and Development supported initial disaster relief work in India (including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands), Sri Lanka, Thailand and Indonesia. Through Church partners and NGOs, Episcopal Relief and Development executed long-term tsunami recovery programs in Sri Lanka and India, allocating more than $10 million.

ERD’s tsunami recovery program has impacted countless lives and livelihoods throughout the South Asian region. Accomplishments have been achieved in the areas of education, sheltering, vocational training and trauma counseling. For example, five schools have been built in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands benefiting 2,600 children a year and over 3,000 people in the region have had their homes rebuilt.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) continues its life-saving work related to tsunami recovery into 2008 and beyond. The agency has recently partnered with the Centre for Environmental Justice, a community-based organization in Sri Lanka, to promote ecologically sound community sustainability activities that enhance coastal protection by rebuilding the coastal mangrove green belt.

In 2008, Episcopal Relief and Development will launch a partnership with the Ecumenical Church Loan Fund of Sri Lanka to support micro-credit initiatives and support local micro-enterprise development. “We will be concluding our major rehabilitation activities and focusing on developing new partnerships to ensure secure livelihoods as part of our ongoing program work,” says Kirsten Laursen, ERD’s Senior Program Director for Asia and New Initiatives.

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, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

11/19/2007

Episcopal Relief & Development is standing by to provide emergency assistance to Bangladeshi communities affected by Cyclone Sidr. The full extent of the destruction caused by this category 4 storm, the most powerful so far this year, is not yet known. As of today 7 million people have been uprooted and reports say the death toll may reach as high as 10,000.

In the worst affected districts, the low-lying coastal regions, 90 per cent of homes and 95 percent of rice crops and prawn farms were obliterated by the 150 mph winds, which generated a 20ft tidal surge that swept everything from its path.

"I have never seen such a catastrophe in my 20 years as a government administrator," said Harisprasad Pal, an official from Barguna District, "Village after village has been shattered. Millions of people are living out in the open and relief is reaching less than one percent of the people."

Relief efforts are hampered by the extent of Sidr’s destruction. Entire roads have been washed away, trees have been uprooted and telecommunications and transportation links have been severed. The situation is dire and millions of people are in need of shelter, food and clean water.

In partnership with ACT International, Episcopal Relief & Development will be supporting the relief efforts of the Church of Bangladesh. The Church of Bangladesh and local ecumenical partners are currently assessing local needs after this disaster. Episcopal Relief & Development is ready to respond to the needs identified by this team. “We will be working in solidarity with the Church of Bangladesh as they respond to this disaster,” says Julie Petrie, Asia Program Officer for Episcopal Relief & Development.

To help people affected by the Cyclone in Bangladesh, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Emergency Relief Fund/Bangladesh Cyclone” online at http://www.er-d.org/ , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Emergency Relief Fund/Bangladesh Cyclone” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. An independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is pleased to announce the addition of three new members to its Board of Directors.

Nelson Famadas from Province IX, Diocese of Puerto Rico, Teri Lawver, Province II, Diocese of New Jersey and The Rev. Luther Ott, Province IV, Diocese of Mississippi each bring a wealth of experience to their new role as board members.

“The new members demonstrate considerable talent and personal commitment to the church in support of the mission of Episcopal Relief and Development,” said the Rt. Rev. Harry B. Bainbridge III, Chair of ERD’s Board. “I look forward to their contributions to the important work before us.”

“We welcome Mr. Famadas, Ms. Lawver and The Rev. Ott to the Episcopal Relief and Development family,” said Robert W. Radtke, President of ERD. “Their contribution as board members is vital to the success of our work.”

The three new board members are Episcopalians active in their congregations, professions and volunteer organizations. Mr. Famadas is a retired finance executive who serves on the board of various civic and charitable organizations in Puerto Rico and Florida.

Ms. Lawver is General Manager of the Animas Corporation, a Johnson & Johnson company, where she is leading the effort to implement a plan to transform diabetes standards of care across all Johnson & Johnson companies.

The Rev. Luther Smith Ott was ordained to the priesthood in 1998 after a successful career in law. He serves as the volunteer chaplain for Stewpot Community Services and is the volunteer Camp Director of Camp Coast Care; an ERD supported Hurricane Katrina recovery center located in Long Beach, Mississippi.

“Episcopal Relief and Development is honored to welcome these extraordinary individuals who have offered their time and talent and are willing to serve on our Board of Directors,” continued Radtke.

Each year more than 12 million people are forced to flee their homes. Episcopal Relief & Development is working with church partners to respond to the needs of people in crisis, especially in the wake of recent surges of violence that have displaced thousands of people.

In Sri Lanka, the conflict between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has worsened. The UN reports that at least 230,000 people have been displaced by the fighting in the north of the country. The Anglican Diocese of Colombo has been overwhelmed by the number of people who are currently seeking shelter in church buildings. Episcopal Relief & Development has sent emergency funds to the Diocese of Colombo to provide clean water, food, shelter and emergency medical supplies to serve displaced people.

In the Philippines, the conflict between Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the Philippine government has displaced over 300,000 people and killed 170 civilians since the fighting began last August. Due to the recent ground hostility and military bombings, the villages of Sangay and Paril have been destroyed. At least 400 families from these villages have lost their homes, animals, farm land and all of their possessions. Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Episcopal Diocese of the Southern Philippines to respond to the immediate needs of displaced people by supplying food, water and medicine.

The ongoing terrorism of the rebel organization, Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), has reached a new level of brutality in Sudan. The most recent LRA attacks have included murder, child abductions and torture. The fighting in southern Sudanese communities has destroyed villages and caused massive displacement. Episcopal Relief & Development will partner with Sudanese Development and Relief Agency to provide emergency assistance to victims of the violence and political unrest.
“In praying for peace, Episcopal Relief & Development stands in solidarity with our Anglican partners as they continue to respond to conflict needs in very difficult circumstances” said Nagulan Nesiah, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Program Associate, Asia.

Please pray for those affected by civil unrest. To make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Disaster Response Fund,” or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Disaster Response Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. All programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

La Diócesis de Puerto Rico hace contribución a nivel histórico a Episcopal Relief & Development, el Fondo Episcopal de Beneficencia y Desarrollo

La Diócesis de Puerto Rico acaba de hacer un compromiso de tres años con Episcopal Relief & Development consistente en una contribución total de $300.000 dólares. Este constituye el donativo más grande proveniente de una sola diócesis en la historia de Episcopal Relief & Development. El Obispo Alvarez y la Diócesis de Puerto Rico han designado este donativo histórico para apoyar al Fondo de Inspiración de los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio.

“Estamos orgullosos de poder apoyar a Episcopal Relief & Development en sus esfuerzos hacia el cumplimiento de los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio,” indicó el Obispo Alvarez de la Diócesis de Puerto Rico. “Esperamos que nuestro aporte inspire a otras diócesis y a miembros de la Iglesia Episcopal a colaborar con Episcopal Relief & Development en su tarea de aliviar la pobreza y las enfermedades.”

En 2007, Episcopal Relief & Development, los Ministerios para el Jubileo y el Consejo Ejecutivo de la Iglesia Episcopal lanzaron el Fondo de Inspiración de los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio con el fin de detener la propagación del paludismo en el Africa, desarrollar un proyecto piloto en el Asia y promover la salud en América Latina y el Caribe.

“El histórico aporte de la Diócesis de Puerto Rico será de gran ayuda para Episcopal Relief & Development en sus esfuerzos hacia el logro de los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio. Esta clase de apoyo refleja verdaderamente al cristianismo en acción” afirmó la Obispa Presidenta Katharine Jefferts Schiori.

“Recibir un donativo de esta magnitud de una antigua diócesis misionera de la Provincia IX resulta verdaderamente impresionante. La contribución de la Diócesis de Puerto Rico es un testimonio a su compromiso a erradicar la pobreza,” comentó Robert Radtke, presidente de Episcopal Relief & Development. “Gracias a la generosidad sin precedentes de la Diócesis de Puerto Rico, nos encontramos a $500.000 de alcanzar nuestra meta de recaudar 3 millones de dólares para el Fondo de Inspiración de los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio.”

Si desea hacer un aporte para ayudar a Episcopal Relief & Development a cumplir su meta de recaudar 3 millones de dólares para el Fondo de Inspiración de los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio, visítenos en Internet en: www.er-d.org, ó llame al 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Puede enviar sus donaciones a: Episcopal Relief & Development “Millennium Development Goal Inspiration Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development es el organismo internacional de beneficencia y desarrollo de la Iglesia Episcopal de los Estados Unidos. En su calidad de organización independiente, clase 501(c) (3), Episcopal Relief & Development toma su mandato de las palabras de Jesús que se encuentran en el evangelio según San Mateo capítulo 25. Sus programas buscan alcanzar los Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio. Junto con la Iglesia mundial y en colaboración con entidades ecuménicas, Episcopal Relief & Development fortalece a comunidades hoy para que puedan superar los retos del mañana; ayuda a la reconstrucción después de los desastres y empodera a las personas ofreciendo soluciones duraderas contra la pobreza, el hambre y enfermedades como el VIH/SIDA y el paludismo.
 

The Diocese of Puerto Rico has just made a three year commitment to Episcopal Relief & Development to contribute a total of $300,000 to the organization. This will be the largest gift ever received from a single diocese in Episcopal Relief & Development’s history. Bishop Alvarez and the Diocese of Puerto Rico have designated the historic donation to support the Millennium Development Goals Inspiration Fund. 

“We are proud to support Episcopal Relief & Development in their work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals,” said Bishop Alvarez of the Diocese of Puerto Rico. “We hope that our gift will inspire other dioceses and Episcopalians to partner with Episcopal Relief & Development in their work towards alleviating poverty and disease.”

In 2007, the Millennium Development Goals Inspiration Fund was launched by Episcopal Relief & Development, Jubilee Ministries and the Executive Council of the Episcopal Church to stop the spread of malaria in Africa, develop a pilot project in Asia and promote health in Latin America and the Caribbean.

“This historic gift from the Dioceses of Puerto Rico will significantly help Episcopal Relief & Development in their work towards achieving the Millennium Development goals. This support truly represents Christianity in action,” said Presiding Bishop Katherine Jefferts Schiori.

“To receive a gift of this magnitude from a former mission diocese in Province Nine is truly astounding. The Diocese of Puerto Rico’s stewardship is a testament to their commitment to ending poverty,” said Robert Radtke, president of Episcopal Relief & Development. “Because of the Diocese of Puerto Rico’s unprecedented generosity we are now within $500,000 of reaching our goal of raising $3 million for the Millennium Development Goals Inspiration Fund.”

To make a donation to help Episcopal Relief & Development meet our goal of raising $3 million for the Millennium Development Goals Inspiration Fund, visit us online at www.er-d.org, or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Millennium Development Goals Inspiration Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is providing critical emergency assistance to more than 200 displaced people from the Province de L’Eglise Anglican in the north-east region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bishop Isingoma and delegates of the Diocese of Boga were forced to flee their homes last week after a recent upsurge of rebel violence. They were able to circumvent the rebels by traveling for two days through the forests to seek refuge in Bunia, the capitol of the Ituri province.

Now, about 40 families are temporarily living in church buildings in Bunia. United Nations peacekeepers have been stationed around Bunia to quell the violence but tensions remain high as government troops clash with rebels in neighboring regions only 6 miles away from the Bunia. As the threat of attack persists outside of the town, displaced people are continuing to seek shelter in Bunia churches. It remains unclear when the rebel groups will disperse and allow the families to securely return home. Episcopal Relief & Development is providing funds for the churches to feed and shelter the refugees until they can safely relocate.

Janette O'Neill, Senior Program Advisor for Episcopal Relief & Development, met with the Congolese representative in Uganda last week about the Bunia situation then traveled to visit program sites at the Diocese of Aru, Congo.

To make a donation that will directly support people displaced by the violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo contact Episcopal Relief & Development and make a contribution to the “Disaster Response Fund.” These emergency funds allow Episcopal Relief & Development to immediately assist people and stay in the community to help rebuild. Visit us online at www.er-d.org , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Disaster Response Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

This Thanksgiving as we celebrate the start of the holiday season, Episcopal Relief & Development is providing Episcopalians with an opportunity to honor their loved ones by giving a symbolic gift to benefit people living in extreme poverty. With our Gifts for Life catalog, you can:
* Purchase a goat or a flock of chickens for a family struggling with hunger.
* Educate a child orphaned by AIDS for a year.
* Give a family the gift of fishing supplies to help them eat and earn a living.
* Help rebuild an entire house after a disaster.

“Even the smallest gifts can make a huge difference for the millions of people who suffer from poverty,” said Rob Radtke, president of Episcopal Relief & Development. “Gifts range in price from $12 mosquito nets that prevent the spread of malaria, to $20 shares in the purchase of livestock that can help families pull themselves out of poverty and cultivate a sustainable living, to our high impact gifts that transform entire communities and radically change the lives of multiple recipients.”

Families, church and school groups may consider working together to give a high impact gift. For example, for $5,000, a group can build a well and a water sanitation system that serves an entire village and can save countless lives. Since over 1.6 million people die each year from contaminated water and thousands of hours are lost searching for clean water, this gift makes a tremendous and immediate impact.

Another exciting gift idea that is empowering and transforming communities around the world is the promotion of Episcopal Relief & Development’s certified Fair Trade, organic and shade-grown coffee, Bishops Blend. Episcopal Relief & Development partners with Pura Vida Coffee to produce a premium line of specialty-grade coffees purchased directly from small coffee farmers. Purchasing Bishops Blend provides families with the basic necessities for a life of dignity: clean water, nutritious food, health care, education and a living wage.

Episcopal Relief & Development now offers various gift baskets that make the perfect holiday present for the coffee lover. The new Bishops Blend Premium Coffee Basket comes with a hand-made square coffee basket, a French Press, the Pura Vida Coffee recipe book and a bag of Kaldi’s Roast. To learn more about these special gift opportunities or to place an order, visit our site at http://www.er-d.org/BishopsBlend.

To learn more about Gifts for Life, Bishop’s Blend and many of other ways that Episcopal Relief & Development is healing a hurting world read the Thanksgiving edition of our newsletter, ERD Now.

To alleviate poverty and transform commitments around the world, please donate to Episcopal Relief and Development online at www.er-d.org, or by calling 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

On September 25, 2008, the United Nations will hold a Special Session to determine what the world still needs to do to realize the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) by 2015. The MDGs were developed by the international community in 2000 as a set of benchmarks to halve rates of global poverty. One year past the half-way point, there is still much work to be done to achieve the MDGs.

The importance of achieving the MDGs was highlighted at the Lambeth Conference in July/August 2008. Anglican bishops worldwide took part in the Lambeth Walk of Witness for the MDGs as a call to all members of the Anglican Communion to do their part to reach these life-saving goals. In response, the Provinces of the Communion are calling for a day of prayer, fasting and witness on September 25.

Episcopal Relief & Development is doing its part to reach the Millennium Development Goals. Its MDG Inspiration Fund, a partnership with the Executive Council of the Episcopal Church and Jubilee Ministries, aims to raise $3 million by the end of 2009 to promote health and fight disease in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. So far, the Fund has raised over $2 million. A bulletin insert about the Fund asking for the continued partnership of congregations across the country to reach these goals has been prepared for churches to distribute on Sunday, September 21, in recognition of the United Nation’s Special Session.

“Episcopalians across the country clearly recognize the urgency of reaching these goals and creating a more just world,” says Rob W. Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. “We urge them to do their part to make them a reality by supporting our MDG Inspiration Fund.”

Episcopal Relief & Development is also working in partnership with Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation (EGR) and the Episcopal Public Policy Network (EPPN) to highlight the significance of the Special Session and the call of the Provinces of the Communion. EGR is encouraging Episcopalians to pray, fast and witness on September 25. EGR urges Episcopalians to speak out with their voices –by participating in online advocacy in support of the MDGS– and with their dollars –by giving the money that they would have spent on the meals they skipped, or however much they can give, to the MDG Inspiration Fund.

"Living our faith is about amendment of life—Praying, Fasting and Witnessing. It is about connecting our lives with the lives of those living in extreme poverty. This is what Christ calls us to do,” said the Rev. Mike Kinman, Executive Director of Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation. “We hope participating in this Day gives people a taste of what one can do every day to follow Christ in this mission and also shows them the power of what one Church can do through a fantastic, lifesaving program like the MDG Inspiration Fund.”

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Rob Radtke, the president of Episcopal Relief & Development, today launches his “President’s Blog” to be featured on the Episcopal Relief & Development website at www.er-d.org/blog/ .

“This blog will be a place for friends of Episcopal Relief & Development to interact, debate, discuss, question and become more actively involved with our organization” said Radtke. The blog will focus on the intersection between faith and global development. “I hope readers will find the blog a useful place to exchange views and have lively debate” said Radtke. Please click here to visit the “President’s Blog”.

To make a contribution to help people worldwide, please donate to Episcopal Relief and Development. Donations can be made online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

After cutting across Cuba and destroying at least 200,000 homes, inundating entire cities and causing widespread death and destruction in Haiti, Ike headed out to the Gulf of Mexico, only to triple in size before beginning its journey towards the shores of Texas. Because of its size, officials fear that the impact of Ike will be felt all along the Gulf coast. The storm is expected to severely impact Galveston, Beaumont, Lufkin and Tyler as well as many other communities in Texas by September 13th. 

“Communities all along the Gulf coast are in our thoughts and prayers as we wait and watch the path of Hurricane Ike,” said Abagail Nelson, Senior Vice President for Programs at Episcopal Relief & Development. “We are ready to help if called to do so.”

Episcopal Relief & Development is continuing to respond to the devastation caused by recent hurricanes in Haiti and monitoring the needs of other hard-hit countries in other parts of the Caribbean.

To support people on the Gulf Coast impacted by hurricanes, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “US Hurricane Fund” online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “US Hurricane Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058. For contributions assisting those in Haiti and the Caribbean, please give to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Hurricane Relief Fund”.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Haiti, the poorest country in the western hemisphere, has been devastated by three deadly storms, Fay, Gustav and Hanna within the past month. Hurricane Fay was responsible for 10 deaths and considerable damage to the agricultural sector. Hurricane Gustav left at least 76 people dead, thousands displaced and destroyed homes, crops and livestock. More than 70,000 people have sought shelter from Gustav in recent days.
 

In the past day, Tropical Storm Hanna has inundated Haiti. The city of Gonaives, the third largest in the country, is largely under water. The death toll from the storm has already reached 136 and officials fear that this number could increase.
 

Hanna’s arrival on the heels of Gustav and Fay has severely hindered recovery efforts. Hundreds of thousands of people are completely stranded without shelter, food or clean water. With two other storms, Hurricane Ike and Tropical Storm Josephine, heading towards Haiti, more destruction is feared.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti to assist over 1,000 people affected by Hurricane Gustav who are living in shelters in three communities in the South; Jeannette, Petit Trou de Nippes and Léogâne. Father Frantz Cole, the Development Officer for the diocese, is on site and coordinating with development agents and local churches to deliver food, water, medical supplies, clothing and seeds to help replant crops.
 

Father Cole is also assessing needs for those affected by Tropical Storm Hanna and helping communities prepare for Hurricanes Ike and Tropical Storm Josephine which are expected to hit Haiti early next week. 

Episcopal Relief & Development has contacted other affected dioceses, including the Dominican Republic, Cuba and Jamaica and staff expect to receive multiple requests for emergency support in the coming days. 
 

“The situation in Haiti is dire,” said Matthew St. John, Program Officer for Latin America and the Caribbean at Episcopal Relief & Development. “Thanks to our partnership with the Episcopal Diocese of Haiti, we are able to deliver life-saving aid quickly and effectively. Our prayers are with all of those whose lives have been upended by these disasters.”
 

To support people in Haiti impacted by hurricanes, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Hurricane Relief Fund” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Hurricane Relief Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

Haiti, the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere, is particularly vulnerable to flooding and landslides due to deforestation. Flooding in Gonaives, the fourth largest city in the country, has killed 21 people. Gonaives lies in a flat plain between the Caribbean Sea and deforested mountains that create mudslides even in light rain. In 2004, Hurricane Jeanne killed more than 3,000 people due to flooding and mudslides.

The heavy rain forced many people to seek refuge on rooftops and balconies as homes were flooded with muddy water. Wind gusts knocked down trees and horizontal sheets of rain flooded roads and buildings. Many people are without food, water, and clothing further aggravating the food crisis the country is suffering.

Episcopal Relief & Development is in contact with the Diocese of Haiti and will respond to needs of vulnerable people. Please pray for all those touched by these powerful storms

To make a donation, visit our website at www.er-d.org and click on “Hurricane Relief Fund” or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Hurricane Relief Fund”, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

Hurricane Gustav sent an estimated two million people, in possibly the largest exodus in US history, out of Louisiana before it roared ashore and through the coastal villages of the state’s Gulf coast as a category two hurricane with winds of 110 mph.
 

When the Episcopal Church of Louisiana’s Office of Domestic Response (ODR), an Episcopal Relief & Development partner, learned that Gustav was heading its way, it sprang into action. Nearly three years to the day since Hurricane Katrina tore through Louisiana and Mississippi and upended the lives of millions of people in those states, the ODR was ready and prepared to respond.
 

This response included evacuating building supplies, food, water and other emergency materials, creating emergency shelters, relocating and securing staff and coordinating with churches to ensure that the elderly, the vulnerable and families in the low-lying bayou regions of Louisiana that would flood in the event of a direct hit, were accounted for and had disaster plans in place. When Gustav came through Louisiana, its people were safe, thanks in part to the hard work of the ODR.
 

In Mississippi, where Gustav did not make a direct hit, but where there is a risk of flooding and tornadoes from the storm system, Episcopal Relief & Development’s partners there, the Diocese of Mississippi and Lutheran Episcopal Services of Mississippi (LESM) were also prepared with emergency shelters and staff on standby.
 

“The level of preparedness among these churches operating just three years since Hurricane Katrina has been amazing,” says Abagail Nelson, Senior Vice President for Programs at Episcopal Relief & Development. “They were prepared for the worst and are now ready to reach out to the communities and families impacted by this disaster. We will continue to work with them in service to those impacted by this storm, as all work to rebuild their lives.”
 

With communication still down in parts of Louisiana, ODR, LESM and the Diocese of Mississippi are assessing damages from Gustav in preparation for rebuilding efforts.
 

To support people impacted by Hurricane Gustav, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Hurricane Relief Fund” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Hurricane Relief Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development continues to support the recovery and clean up efforts in flood-ravaged communities throughout the Midwest.

In the state of Iowa alone, the damage approaches $10 billion. Governor Chet Culver asked Congress for additional aid for his stricken state, citing an estimated $1.2 billion in unmet needs, mainly in the housing sector.

Abagail Nelson, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Senior Vice President for Program, recently toured several hard-hit Iowa communities visiting with clergy and representatives from the diocese. “The damage is sobering,” she stated. “Many areas were partially underwater, and entire business districts have been wiped out, impacting jobs and economic prospects. These communities will need long-term assistance to recover fully,” Nelson continued. “It is life affirming however to see our churches reaching out to all in need, cleaning up the damage, gutting out the hardest hit homes, and providing pastoral care and space for respite. Our churches are at the forefront of local activities from Burlington, to Cedar Rapids to Waverly, and volunteer groups from all around the country, continue responding to the work in strong solidarity.”

After the flooding, Episcopal Relief & Development partnered with the Diocese of Iowa to provide emergency assistance for affected individuals, including temporary shelter and rental assistance. Volunteer groups continue to clean out homes and have begun repairing those that can be salvaged, and now the diocese is working with Episcopal Relief & Development on the long term recovery plans. Peter Gudaitis, a consultant working with Episcopal Relief and Development, also traveled recently to the Diocese of Indianapolis to follow up on long term recovery programs for those impacted by the flooding.

Throughout the Midwest, Episcopal Relief & Development has worked in tandem with the dioceses of Fond du Lac, Iowa, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Quincy and Missouri to assess needs, and respond to the concerns of those impacted by the flooding earlier this summer.

To contribution to relive the suffering of families impacted by flooding in the Midwest, please  donate to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Midwest Flood Fund” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Midwest Flood Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.



 

When Presiding Bishop Katherine Jefferts Schori visited St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s School on Manhattan’s Upper West Side in New York City to bless their greenhouse in January 2008, she inadvertently planted the seeds for a very successful fundraising campaign on behalf of Episcopal Relief & Development’s malaria prevention initiative, NetsforLife®. 

In thanks for the Presiding Bishop’s visit and blessing, the school decided to organize a spring fundraiser for NetsforLife®. Each student was invited to solicit people to sponsor them to exercise up to 30 minutes a day (for example, $1 per minute of exercise) during a weeklong program called “Get Fit Together.” In just one week the school raised nearly $30,000—enough for more than 2,500 nets.

“We are proud of our students and the enthusiasm with which they embraced the NetsforLife® project,” said Ms. Virginia Connor, Head of School. “One of the important elements of our mission is our desire to connect students to the world around them…this project allowed our students to learn about children in a very different part of the world, and to feel compassion for them as well as kinship with them,” Connor continued

St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s only has around 350 students, so raising such a large sum of money required the enthusiastic participation of the entire school family. “The NetsforLife®/Get Fit Together project helped us build a stronger community, which in turn made it possible for our community to help other communities in need,” said Eva Warren, a sixth grade student at St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s.

“St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s wonderful witness…is an inspiring example of what youth can do to help other youth,” said The Most Reverend Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop and Primate of The Episcopal Church. “The entire school community is to be commended,” continued Jefferts Schori.

“Episcopal Relief & Development is thrilled by the results of this unique fundraising initiative,” says Lorenzo Martinez, Vice President of External Affairs at Episcopal Relief & Development. “By providing 2,500 nets for families in Africa, St. Hilda’s and St. Hugh’s students will save thousands of lives and prevent needless suffering. We hope this project will inspire other schools to join in the effort to fight malaria.”

NetsforLife® is a partnership to prevent malaria in 15 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The partnership is comprised of individual, foundation and corporate sponsors including Standard Chartered Bank, ExxonMobil Foundation, The Starr International Foundation, The White Flowers Foundation and The Coca-Cola Africa Foundation. NetsforLife® works in partnership with Anglican churches and other ecumenical partners in affected communities to distribute long-lasting insecticide-treated nets to the most vulnerable, build awareness about malaria, and train community leaders to teach prevention and treatment methods. For more information, visit www.netsforlifeafrica.org. 
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is preparing an emergency response to Hurricane Dolly, which slammed into the south Texas Gulf Coast on Wednesday, July 23. Just before making landfall, Dolly was upgraded to a Category 2 storm, with sustained winds reaching more than 95 miles per hour.
 

The hurricane could affect as many as 1.5 million people in Texas. Up to 12 inches of rain were dropped in the first few hours after Dolly came ashore. Once over land, it ripped off roofs, uprooted trees and left thousands of residents without power. Concerns remain over potential flooding in the area.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is in contact with the affected dioceses, and stands ready to provide immediate assistance in the aftermath of the storm. Representatives from the Diocese of West Texas have met with the Voluntary Agencies Active in Disasters (VOAD) group in the region to develop a coordinated response. 

We offer our thoughts and prayers to those in Dolly’s path.
 

In early May, Cyclone Nargis tore through Myanmar (Burma), killing more than 77,000 people and leaving over 1 million others homeless. The devastating storm made landfall in the Irrawaddy Delta region, creating a huge tidal surge that swept away entire villages, livestock and fields of crops. Yangon, the capital, was also directly hit. Episcopal Relief & Development immediately responded to this disaster and is providing ongoing assistance to those most severely impacted. 

Episcopal Relief & Development staff recently returned from Myanmar and has confirmed that its partner, the Anglican Church of the Province of Myanmar (CPM), has been receiving and disbursing the resources that have been sent. Since the earliest days of the disaster, CPM has been assisting people in the most affected areas. Assessment teams were sent out immediately to the Irrawaddy region and in the suburban areas of Yangon in order to prioritize critical needs. Food, water and shelter were provided to victims within days of the disaster.

Prior to the cyclone, Episcopal Relief & Development was working with CPM on economic development, water and sanitation, education, agriculture and livestock programs. The cyclone has not impacted the continuation of these programs.

Current Relief Activities
CPM’s ongoing cyclone relief activities are centered in a remote cluster of villages in Laputta Township in the Irrawaddy Delta region. CPM was the first organization to arrive in this area, and continues to be the only resident agency serving these communities.

The suffering in this area has been acute. Three of the villages were completely destroyed. One village lost 500 of its 600 residents. In another, only three out of 100 homes remain standing. A recent visit from a medical team found that over 500 people were suffering from illnesses such as acute viral infections, pneumonia, anemia, dizziness and duodenal ulcers.

More than 1,500 individuals—250 families—are being reached by CPM in Laputta Township. The outpouring of assistance and support from Episcopalians has given CPM the opportunity to serve victims of many different faiths at this very difficult time. “God has given us the strength to extend a smile amidst our tears,” says the Most Rev. Stephen Than Myint Oo, Archbishop of the Church of the Province of Myanmar.

Long-Term Rebuilding Plans
During the recent monitoring visit, Episcopal Relief & Development staff helped CPM develop a long-term plan to rebuild communities in the targeted areas. Over the next two years, the agency will work with CPM on an integrated rehabilitation program with an emphasis on housing repair and reconstruction; restoring livelihood opportunities; providing medical services, water and sanitation interventions; and educational programs for children.

To help people affected by the cyclone in Myanmar, make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Myanmar & Cyclone Response” online, or by calling 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development “Myanmar & Cyclone Response,” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development continues to provide emergency assistance to communities devastated by Cyclone Nargis, which struck Myanmar (Burma) on May 2nd. The entire Irrawaddy Delta Region, which is home to 21.5 million of Myanmar’s 53 million residents, has been declared a disaster zone. Official figures state that 77,738 people have been killed, 55,917 are missing and 19,359 are injured. An additional one million people are homeless.

Working in partnership with the Anglican Church of the Province of Myanmar (CPM), Episcopal Relief & Development is supporting relief and recovery efforts. Prior to the cyclone, the agency was working with CPM on economic development, water and sanitation, education, agriculture and livestock programs. The cyclone has not impacted the continuation of these programs.

CPM’s relief activities are centered in multiple remote villages in the township of Latputta in the delta region. From this base, staff are able to reach out to people in the most affected zone. CPM is the only resident agency operating in this area and is supporting medical care and other emergency services. “God has given us the strength to extend a smile amidst our tears,” says Archbishop Stephen Than Myint Oo.

Earlier this week Episcopal Relief & Development staff returned from Myanmar and confirmed that CPM is receiving and disbursing the agency’s support. “Given the enormity of the disaster, the difficult work CPM continues to do with more than 1500 survivors of multiple faiths really demonstrates compassion and effective service. With Episcopal Relief & Development’s support, they have been able to provide food, shelter, livestock replacement, reconstruction and health services,” says Abagail Nelson, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Senior Vice President for Programs.
 

To help people affected by the cyclone in Myanmar, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Myanmar & Cyclone Response” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Myanmar & Cyclone Response” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief & Development is pleased to announce that Lutheran Episcopal Services in Mississippi is the winner of its first ever Emergency Preparedness Plan Competition and will be given $25,000 to implement their winning plan. 

A Second Prize, worth $10,000, was awarded to the Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee. The Episcopal Diocese of Central Pennsylvania won Third Prize, valued at $5,000. Both the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas and the Episcopal Diocese of Southwestern Virginia were given Honorable Mentions.

“We are so pleased to congratulate all the winners. In the United States, our dioceses often face a range of disasters from wildfires and hurricanes, to tornadoes, ice storms and floods,” says Abagail Nelson, Senior Vice President for Programs at Episcopal Relief & Development. “The diocesan planning, scenario staging, and interactive networking with government and voluntary agencies described in these submissions were excellent. We hope that these plans and exercises will help the churches fulfill their critical role of care to the community if dioceses are impacted.”

Decisions were made by a panel of judges made up of the Rt. Rev. George Packard, Bishop Suffragan for Chaplaincies, the Rev. Canon Phillip Rapp, Executive Director of Episcopal Community Services in America, Ken Curtin, Liaison to the Federal Emergency Management Agency Region II Voluntary Agency and Linda Reed-Brown, Former Associate Director, Church World Services Emergency Response Programs, Domestic Division.

The submitted plans were evaluated on several criteria, including how well they were integrated into community and governmental networks, partnerships created with other organizations and Episcopal Dioceses and after action programs.

“This initiative was designed to inspire dioceses to think creatively about their response to disasters. Houses of worship are often the first place people turn to in times of need,” said Robert W. Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. “We are pleased with the response to the competition and heartened that dioceses of the Episcopal Church make it a priority to carry out their ministries, even in times of crisis and emergency. We encourage any diocese interested in disaster preparedness to be in touch with us for guidance about how to prepare for disasters.”

A new call for submissions will be announced in 18 months to spark even more awareness of and interest in disaster preparedness within the 100 Domestic Dioceses of the Episcopal Church.
 

To support Episcopal Relief & Development’s work to heal a hurting world, please make a contribution to Episcopal Relief & Development, online at www.er-d.org, or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief & Development is responding to Typhoon Fengshen, which battered the Philippines on Saturday, June 21. The typhoon left at least 229 people dead with 700 still missing after a passenger ferry capsized during the storm.

Many villages have been flooded. Fields containing the recently planted rice crop have been washed away, intensifying concern about a looming food crisis in the nation.

In partnership with Action by Churches Together (ACT) International, Episcopal Relief & Development is assisting in meeting the immediate concerns of families impacted by the disaster. People are in need of emergency food, clothing and shelter.

Episcopal Relief & Development is also responding to heavy rains that have been falling in northeast India since June 16. Many areas in the eastern states of Assam, Orissa and West Bengal are flooded, leaving at least 93 people dead and close to 2.7 million negatively affected.

More than 1.5 million people have been displaced to government- run relief camps. That number is expected to increase as rescue operations continue. Rail and road transportation routes are severely affected in the three states, as well as in other neighboring states in northeast India.

In partnership with Church’s Auxiliary for Social Action (CASA), Episcopal Relief & Development is contributing to a feeding program for 1,500 families for a period of ten days. In addition, plastic sheets will be distributed to 1500 families to serve as temporary shelters.

“With increasing disasters in many parts of Asia, we are grateful to be able to rely on our international partnerships in supporting critical relief efforts in all corners of the continent,” said Nagulan Nesiah, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Program Associate, Asia.
 

To help people affected by disasters in Asia, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Emergency Relief Fund” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Emergency Relief Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Today, Episcopal Relief & Development commemorates World Refugee Day. “Protection,” the theme for 2008, is reminder that protecting refugees is a duty and being protected is a human right.

Each year over 12 million people are driven from their homes, sometimes carrying with them as little as the clothes on their back. The reasons for these numerous enforced departures include conflict, natural disasters and a need to escape the paralyzing conditions of poverty.

Episcopal Relief & Development works to alleviate suffering among refugees and internally displaced people around the world. After disasters, Episcopal Relief & Development provides food, clean water, shelter and other necessities to families who are displaced from their homes. Our long-term integrated development programs enable displaced people to rebuild their lives.

Episcopal Relief & Development’s programs to alleviate hunger and promote health and fight disease bring aid to people living in refugee camps. For example, we are partnering with the Organization for Eelam Refugees Rehabilitation (OfERR) to provide services to Tamil refugees who have fled the civil war in Sri Lanka and are taking shelter in India.

OfERR supports 77,000 refugee families in 117 refugee camps to ensure they are able to live sustainable lives and are prepared with skills that will assist them when they are eventually resettled to Sri Lanka. These activities include providing basic necessities such as food, shelter, water and sanitation facilities, as well as educational support to school-age children in the form of tuition services, school supplies and study rooms and facilitating vocational training programs and self-help groups, and advocating for peace on behalf of refugees.

“Sadly, conflicts around the world leave millions homeless within their own countries or as refugees in other countries,” says Kirsten Laursen Muth, Senior Program Officer for Asia and New Initiatives at Episcopal Relief & Development. “Our faith calls us to welcome and care for the stranger, and to stand with our brothers and sisters who have lost everything by supporting their dignity as they live in uncertain conditions. Episcopal Relief & Development is also supporting Sri Lankans who are displaced within their country as well as the refugees in Southern India,” added Muth.
 

To help alleviate suffering among refugees and internally displaced people, please make a contribution to Episcopal Relief & Development, online at www.er-d.org , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief & Development is providing emergency assistance to communities devastated by ongoing flooding across the Midwest. So far, the flood waters are responsible for killing 24 people, injuring 148 and displacing tens of thousands of others. 

The damage to infrastructure and the agricultural sector is severe. In some areas, entire towns are completely inundated, their past existence confirmed only by a lone church steeple poking above the water line. Hundreds of thousands of acres of crops have been destroyed. The floods have inflicted up to $1.5 billion in damage to Iowa’s agricultural sector alone. This number will increase dramatically as loss is assessed in other states.

The crisis is far from over. Rising waters have breached 20 levees across the region and officials fear that more flooding will occur as river levels climb in Missouri and Illinois.

Episcopal Relief & Development is responding to the needs of flood victims in the Dioceses of Iowa, Milwaukee, Fond du Lac and Indianapolis. The organization is standing by to provide assistance in Quincy, Missouri and other dioceses as the need arises.

In Iowa, Episcopal Relief & Development is working with its partner the Episcopal Diocese of Iowa to provide support to people who have been displaced from their homes. Mental health services will also be offered as the need arises.

In Milwaukee, Episcopal Relief & Development will partner with the Diocese of Milwaukee to assist people in rural counties. In northeastern Wisconsin, the agency is working in Fond du Lac to restock the food pantry at the Cathedral and provide temporary rental assistance to families as they clean up their flooded homes.

In Indianapolis, Episcopal Relief & Development will work with the Diocese of Indianapolis to provide rental assistance, food and water aid to families in communities that have no potable water.

“We hold in prayer all who are impacted by the flooding, all who are working tirelessly to prevent further flooding, and all who stand together to care for these people and communities as the waters recede,” says Abagail Nelson, Senior Vice President for Programs at Episcopal Relief & Development.

Because of the urgency of this appeal, a church bulletin has been prepared. Print the bulletin and encourage members of your congregation to give on behalf of people affected by this crisis.

Please make an immediate contribution to relive the suffering of families impacted by flooding in the Midwest. To make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Midwest Flood Fund” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Midwest Flood Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Early Saturday morning Hurricane Ike made landfall in the United States destroying the town of Galveston, Texas and smashing through the Gulf coast region. The Hurricane has left 31 people dead, more than two million without power and thousands stranded in their homes or in shelters. Search and rescue teams continue to save people from flattened houses and rising waters in Galveston and other coastal communities.

The Episcopal Diocese of Texas has been deeply affected by the storm. Recent reports are focusing on the destruction in Houston, Orange, Galveston, Beaumont and other areas. News continues to pour in and assessments are currently under way. Episcopal Relief & Development is responding with funds to address immediate needs of vulnerable families.

The Episcopal Diocese of West Texas has been impacted by evacuated populations. Twenty-one of their institutions are functioning as Red Cross shelters and network of more than two hundred volunteers will maintain the shelters for as long as they are needed. These churches offered meal programs and relief supplies including tarps and water.

“Episcopal Relief & Development is communicating with affected dioceses in Western Louisiana, Texas, West Texas and Arkansas and is providing critical assistance as the needs arise,” said Don Cimato of Episcopal Relief & Development. “We are working in coordination with voluntary organizations at state and national levels with the goal of preventing the duplication of services.”

Reports from the Episcopal Diocese of Western Louisiana suggest that the damage caused by Hurricane Ike is significantly worse than Hurricane Rita. Clergy and parishioners have had their homes flooded. The Lake Charles and Sulphur region was drastically impacted and continues to be threatened by water surges.

“We are prepared to provide food, water, medicine, shelter and other basic supplies as well as long-term rebuilding in the aftermath of the destructive hurricane season,” continued Cimato. “Please continue to support and pray for the people affected by Hurricane Ike.”

Hurricane Ike was the fifth storm of a devestating atlantic hurricane season. Episcopal Relief & Development is continuing to respond to the destruction caused by recent hurricanes in Haiti and the Caribbean where over 200,000 are left homeless and over 800,000 people are in need of urgent aid.

To support people on the GulfCoast impacted by hurricanes, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “US Hurricane Fund” online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “US Hurricane Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA22116-7058. For contributions assisting those in Haiti and the Caribbean, please give to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Hurricane Relief Fund”.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is providing emergency assistance to communities devastated by ongoing flooding in Iowa. So far the flood waters are responsible for the deaths of five people, the displacement of 38,000 others and have inflicted up to $1 billion in damage to Iowa’s agricultural sector.

The damage to infrastructure is severe. Across eastern Iowa, the flooding rivers have washed out railroad lines, halted barge traffic on the Mississippi River and closed major roadways. Twenty-four counties have been declared disaster areas to date.

The crisis is far from over. More rain is expected in the region and officials fear that flood waters will breech 27 levees along the Mississippi River in Iowa and Missouri later this week.

Working with its partner the Episcopal Diocese of Iowa, Episcopal Relief & Development is providing emergency assistance to people who have been displaced from their homes. Families will be given temporary shelter and provided with food, clothing, first aid and other basic necessities.

“The Diocese of Iowa’s extraordinary people have been bringing support to those impacted by recent tornadoes, immigration raids and now these terrible floods,” says Abagail Nelson, Senior Vice President for Programs at Episcopal Relief & Development. “We will continue to support them as they bring critical aid to the people impacted in their communities.”

To help people affected by flooding in Iowa, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Disaster Response Fund - Midwest” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Disaster Response Fund – Midwest” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief & Development launched its redesigned website today, unveiling a new image that powerfully portrays the core values of the organization and strengthens its online presence.

“Episcopal Relief & Development has reached incredible milestones in the past several years. Working in partnership with over 60 Anglican and ecumenical agencies, our programs now impact more than two million people in 41 countries,” said Robert W. Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. “Our new website reflects the vitality of our work and is a powerful and usable tool that tells our story,” Radtke continued.

The innovative and user-friendly website provides a comprehensive overview of Episcopal Relief & Development along with individual country pages detailing partners and programs in 41 countries. It also highlights the organization’s programs, which focus on the following areas: alleviating hunger and improving food supply, creating economic opportunities and strengthening communities, promoting health and fighting disease, and responding to disasters and rebuilding communities.

“We wanted our new website to be an educational tool to build awareness of Episcopal Relief & Development and our approach to development,” said Abagail Nelson, Senior Vice President for Programs. “By providing resources and opportunities for individuals and churches, we open a door to a new way of living in solidarity with people around the world,” continued Nelson.

Some of the new features of the site include Stories from the Field, which shares how lives are being changed through the work of Episcopal Relief & Development. An expanded Congregational Tools section helps churches engage with Episcopal Relief & Development by providing resources, tools, and creative ideas and events.

An Online Store offers unique gifts from the Gifts for Life catalog that make a lasting impact in communities around the world. Those interested in supporting the work of Episcopal Relief & Development will find the new website’s Donate Now section a secure and convenient way to contribute online.

New Visual Identity and Language

Episcopal Relief & Development also introduced a new logo as part of the website launch. The redesigned logo reinforces the organization’s global vision, its commitment to partnerships, and its connection to the Episcopal Church.

“We revamped our website and logo as part of a larger process of listening and learning from supporters and partners,” says Lorenzo Martinez, Vice President for External Affairs. “The language and images chosen express the key aspects of our work in a fresh way and invite people to engage with the organization on multiple levels.”

The new tagline, “Healing a hurting world” echoes the mandate of the organization to restore hope to those who are hurting — which includes feeding the hungry, caring for the sick, and welcoming the stranger. This creates a strong relationship with the Episcopal concept of “healing,” which speaks to transformation of the whole person, whole community, and whole world.

“I encourage people to explore Episcopal Relief & Development’s site,” says Radtke, “and join with us in healing a hurting world.”

Visit www.er-d.org today to get your first hand view of the new website.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

At least 77,000 people were killed by the cyclone and 56,000 are still missing. Four thousand schools were flattened or damaged, impacting 500,000 children. Overall, children account for 40% of the hardest hit population and are most likely to die in disease outbreaks.

At this point, an estimated 80 to 90 percent of the total households in the affected area are living in improvised shelter. The rains that have accompanied the monsoon season have intensified the conditions of overcrowding, inappropriate sanitation and scarcity of potable water facing the internally displaced people in Myanmar. There is an ongoing need for food, medical aid and shelter.

Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with The Church of the Province of Myanmar (CPM) to provide immediate and long-term relief. Staff from Episcopal Relief & Development have just returned from a monitoring trip to Myanmar where they observed first-hand the incredible needs in the country and the heroic efforts of CPM to meet these needs.

CPM has conducted eight field visits into the very hard to reach epicenter of storm damage with relief teams consisting of health workers, pastoral support, logisticians and labor teams to clear debris and repair damaged water sources and infrastructure. CPM is providing families with food, water purification kits, sheltering material and household kits that include mosquito nets, blankets and towels, water storage containers, cooking pots and other essentials for daily living.

In the coming months CPM will launch the rehabilitation phase of recovery, focusing on restoring livelihoods, rebuilding homes and infrastructure and supporting children orphaned by the storm. As over half a million acres of rice paddy, 38,000 fish and shrimp ponds and 152,000 acres of forest were destroyed, the need for agricultural recovery is extreme.

“CPM’s mobilization efforts to reach those most impacted by the cyclone have been incredible,” says Nagulan Nesiah, Program Associate for Asia at Episcopal Relief & Development. “We look forward to supporting them through the long-term rebuilding phase of the recovery process.”
To make a contribution to help people impacted by Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar, please donate to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Myanmar & Cyclone Response Fund” online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, “Myanmar & Cyclone Response Fund” PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

Fay originally struck the Florida Keys earlier this week, moved out over open water then hit land a second time near Naples. It then moved slowly across Florida, edged back out into the Atlantic and made landfall a third time. It is predicted that the storm will cross the Florida Panhandle this weekend and it could bring an additional four to eight inches of rain in some areas. Overall, Tropical Storm Fay has caused 28 deaths, most in the Caribbean. In Florida, five people were killed.

A federal disaster declaration has been issued by President Bush for affected parts of Florida. In Brevard County, over 150 people were evacuated from their homes and the Jacksonville Electric Authority reported that 66,000 people are without electricity as a result of power outages.

Episcopal Relief & Development is in contact with the Diocese of Central Florida and stands ready to respond and offers prayers to communities affected by Tropical Storm Fay.
 

Please pray for people affected by the storm. To make a donation, visit our website at www.er-d.org and click on “Disaster Response-General” or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development “Emergency Relief Fund”, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is providing critical humanitarian assistance in Sudan in light of rising violence and the potential threat of renewed civil war. In the past few weeks, brutal attacks have been launched against the town of Abyei on the north-south border, reducing the town to rubble. More than 100,000 people have fled their homes. This is the worst escalation of fighting since the signing of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

Today, the Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church USA, issued a joint statement with Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The statement calls on the American people to pray for peace in Sudan and demand strong action from the international community to avoid another catastrophic conflict in this war-torn country.

Episcopal Relief & Development is working with the Episcopal Church of Sudan Support Office to assist victims of violence and those fleeing their homes. Our emergency aid includes water, food, shelter and basic necessities. We stand ready to support the Church as it reaches out to those who are again facing instability and unrest in their land.

Please join with us in prayer for those affected by this crisis in Sudan. To make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Sudan Fund,” visit us online at www.er-d.org , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Sudan Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Concern remains high in the region.  Meterologists fear that Gustav will become a Category 2 hurricane before passing over Cuba and Jamaica en route to the Gulf of Mexico, threatening off-shore drilling. Hundreds of people have already been evacuated from coastal areas eastern in Cuba due to heavy rains from the Gustav storm system.

Episcopal Relief & Development is in touch with dioceses in Haiti and the Dominican Republic, ready to supply assistance when it is needed. “Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the path of Hurricane Gustav,” says Abagail Nelson, Senior Vice President of Programs at the agency.
To help people affected Hurricane Gustav, please make a donation to ERD’s “Emergency Relief Fund” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Emergency Relief Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Today, Episcopal Relief & Development commemorates World Environment Day. The slogan for 2008, Kick the Habit! Towards a Low Carbon Economy, is a call to action to protect the earth against the destructive impact of climate change on the health and well-being of all people.

By working to achieve Millennium Development Goal 7 — ensure environmental sustainability —Episcopal Relief & Development is committed to protecting the earth’s threatened ecosystem. The organization’s programs to alleviate hunger, create economic opportunities, promote health and fight disease and respond to disasters are implemented with respect for the earth and defend against environmental degradation while alleviating the suffering caused by poverty.

“Episcopal Relief & Development's programs strive to help individuals to address and to counteract the devastating effects of climate change at the local level,” says Abagail Nelson, Vice President of Programs for the agency.

Episcopal Relief and Development’s worldwide programs implement forestry projects, create tree nurseries and maintain woodlots. Families are provided with smokeless stoves that require minimal wood to burn and protect against the severe respiratory infections caused by the smoke from open fires. Farmers are taught innovative techniques that safeguard the land while improving the food supply. For example, in Ghana Episcopal Relief & Development is working with the Anglican Diocesan Development and Relief Organization (ADDRO) to counter the effects of erratic rainfall which has been made worse in recent years by climate change.

Mariama, a 48 year-old mother of six was struggling to grind out an existence from a small farming plot in a part of Ghana that is plagued by persistent drought. Thanks to a local partnership between Episcopal Relief & Development, the Diocese of Tamale and ADDRO, Mariama was trained in soil-replenishing dry season vegetable gardening and given $100 to become a member of a farming cooperative. Within one year, the group tripled their initial investment and added new crops to their rotation.

“Before the program we could hardly feed ourselves,” said Mariama, “now we can feed, clothe and educate our children.”

To help Episcopal Relief & Development protect the environment while alleviating suffering, please make a contribution to Episcopal Relief & Development, online at www.er-d.org, or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Since the immediate aftermath of Katrina, Episcopal Relief & Development has been working with local and national partners to meet the needs of the most vulnerable individuals and communities.  While much assistance has been provided, persistent needs remain.  Episcopal Relief & Development continues to work with partners in Louisiana and Mississippi to identify and empower those still struggling to recover and rebuild their lives.

In partnership with the Office of Disaster Response of the Diocese of Louisiana, we provided case management services to over 600 families in the New Orleans area during the past year, helping them access available services and assistance programs, secure housing and find employment.  We continue to help homeowners refurbish damaged homes and provide food to residents and volunteer teams working on homes through the ministries of the Dragon Café and Mobile Loaves and Fishes. Advocacy and leadership development initiatives are empowering community members to organize and advocate for the long-term growth and security of their neighborhoods. 

The Jericho Road Episcopal Housing Initiative is making steady progress toward its goal of constructing 500 affordable homes to help replace lost housing stock and revitalize neighborhoods in the Central City area of New Orleans.  Since August 2006, 48 lots have been acquired, 17 homes built, and 13 homes sold.  Homeownership programs provide resources to support families through the home buying process. 

Episcopal Relief & Development continues to assist residents of FEMA trailer parks in the vicinity of LaPlace through a partnership with G.R.A.C.E. Community Services. Computer training and job readiness courses help clients secure employment in this rural part of Louisiana.

In Mississippi, Episcopal Relief & Development is working with the Diocese of Mississippi and Lutheran Episcopal Services in Mississippi to operate two volunteer camps—Camp Coast Care and Mission on the Bay—that provide housing and meals for those assisting with homebuilding projects in the area. 

Hallelujah Housing is providing gap funding for families in three Mississippi Gulf Coast counties who do not have enough funds to repair their damaged homes or build new homes.  The program aims to rebuild clusters of communities within each county.  Financing is provided through Enterprise Corporation of the Delta/HOPE Credit Union.  A total of 15 families have received the funds they needed to rebuild. 
At every juncture, compassionate volunteers have graciously served those in need, as Lynn Betancourt’s story demonstrates so clearly.

Coming home
Lynn Betancourt and her three children were among thousands forced to evacuate New Orleans in the aftermath of Katrina.  The family resettled in Marietta, GA, but in the spring of 2007, Lynn believed it was the right time to return to New Orleans and reunite with family she had left behind.  She placed her family’s belongings in a storage unit in Marietta, as she was not sure where they would live in New Orleans. 

Fortunately, Lynn found a job and a place to live shortly after arriving in back in New Orleans.  But with a brand new job, she could not take time off to go to Marietta and retrieve her family’s possessions, nor could she afford a moving service. Lynn brought her situation to a case manager at the Diocese of Louisiana’s Office of Disaster Response, a program supported by Episcopal Relief & Development, who was hopeful they could solve the problem quickly.

The case manager found a website for St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church in Marietta, and called the rector to inquire whether anyone would be able to help pack up Lynn’s belongings and load them on a bus.  The rector’s quick and compassionate response was just the thing Lynn needed to hear:  “How about we just load up her things and bring them to her?” he said.   The church had a group of volunteers scheduled to go to Mississippi for a work trip later that month, and they were happy to make a side trip to New Orleans.  They even offered to help with most of the expenses.  

A few weeks later, a truck pulled up outside Lynn’s home and volunteers helped her unpack.  Afterward, the group shared refreshments and fellowship on the front porch.  This wonderful picture of hope restored ended with a heartfelt prayer for God’s blessing upon Lynn’s home and her family. 
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is pleased to announce that it has achieved a
4-star rating from Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management. This is the highest possible rating, given to only a quarter of the charities evaluated by the group, the national leader in charity evaluation. This ‘exceptional’ designation indicates that Episcopal Relief & Development executes its mission in a financially responsible way.

“Episcopal Relief & Development is committed to maintaining the highest standards of accountability so we are extremely pleased to be recognized by Charity Navigator for excelling at this,” says Robert W. Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. “By effectively administering the financial support of our donors we can truly heal a hurting world,” added Radtke.

“This 4-star rating by Charity Navigator is but one more recognition of the professional manner in which Episcopal Relief & Development carries out its mission. All Episcopalians can be proud of this rating and can have confidence in the way Episcopal Relief & Development represents them as we seek to heal a hurting world,” said the Right Reverend Harry Brown Bainbridge III, Chairman of Episcopal Relief & Development’s Board of Directors.

The recognition from Charity Navigator coincides with Episcopal Relief & Development’s launch of their 2007 Annual Summary, highlighting the efforts of the agency to reach close to 2.5 million people in over 41 countries around the world this past year. To view Episcopal Relief & Development’s profile on Charity Navigator, click here. A copy of the 2007 Annual Summary can be downloaded from Episcopal Relief & Development’s website.

Episcopal Relief & Development also meets all 20 standards for the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) Charity Accountability.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is responding to the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Arthur in Belize. The storm formed suddenly in the Caribbean and swept across Central America on Sunday and Monday, following on the heels of Tropical Storm Alma and catching Belize’s 300,000 residents by surprise.

Heavy rains and strong winds have caused flash flooding that claimed at least four lives in Belize, although officials have not confirmed the death toll. Thousands have been driven from their homes by rising waters. Roads and bridges have been severely damaged, leaving parts of the country inaccessible. The storm also wiped out papaya plantations, shrimp farms, and the rice crops, devastating the nation’s economy and food supply.

Episcopal Relief & Development has been in contact with our partner, the Episcopal Diocese of Belize, to determine immediate needs in the affected areas. Episcopal Relief & Development has a long-standing relationship with the diocese, and has been working on programs to promote health and create economic opportunities over the past several years. After Belize was hit two years in a row by devastating hurricanes in 2000 and 2001, Episcopal Relief & Development partnered with the diocese to rebuild three of the hardest hit communities in the country — Caye Caulker, Monkey River, and Placencia — with assistance from volunteer teams from Episcopal churches around the United States.

Episcopal Relief & Development will provide support to purchase much-needed food, water and materials for housing repair.

We offer our prayers and support to the people of Belize at this time.

To help people affected by Tropical Storm Arthur in Belize, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Emergency Relief Fund” online at www.er-d.org, or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development “Emergency Relief Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief & Development continues to provide emergency assistance to families impacted by the severe earthquake in China.

Over 55,000 people are confirmed dead and 25,000 are still unaccounted for from the massive earthquake that shook southwest China on May 12th. Nearly 300,000 people have been injured. So far, 4,000 children have been orphaned by the disaster.

Officials say about 10 million people have been affected by the quake. Five million people in Sichuan Province are homeless. Many are in refugee camps, without proper shelter, food or clean water. The Chinese government has issued an urgent appeal to the international community for 3.3 million tents to protect the quake refugees.

Episcopal Relief & Development is providing ongoing support to the Amity Foundation, its local partner, to distribute 240,000 kilos of rice to 16,000 people and plastic sheeting and quilts to provide shelter and warmth to 8,000 families impacted by the disaster. The Amity Foundation is targeting areas in Sichuan, Gansu, and Sha’anxi Provinces where many people continue to suffer from harsh conditions, cold weather, and the loss of their homes, furniture, and all their personal belongings.

Episcopal Relief & Development will continue to work with local partners on long-term reconstruction and rehabilitation of the devastated areas. Housing, hospitals, clinics, schools, and water systems all need to be rebuilt.

To help people affected by the earthquake in China, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Emergency Relief Fund” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development “Emergency Relief Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

All over the world millions of women struggle to care for the families while mired in a cycle of poverty and suffering. Today, Episcopal Relief & Development commemorates Mother’s Day to call attention to the plight of women around the world.

By working to achieve the Millennium Development Goals, Episcopal Relief & Development is committed to empowering women. Our programs to alleviate hunger, create economic opportunities, promote health and fight disease and respond to disasters are implemented to improve the lives of women and their families while alleviating the suffering caused by poverty.

“Close to eighty percent of Episcopal Relief & Development’s program beneficiaries are women,” said Abagail Nelson, ERD’s Vice President for Programs. “We recognize that women are vital members of their communities, serving as breadwinners, caregivers, and teachers. Episcopal Relief & Development promotes their success in all of these endeavors.”

Episcopal Relief & Development’s worldwide programs to empower women provide health care, improve the food supply and help women to achieve economic stability. For example, in the Puno Region of southern Peru on Lake Titicaca where nearly 50% of the population lives on less than $1 per day, Episcopal Relief and Development is partnering with the Anglican Diocese of Peru and the Ecumenical Church Loan Fund (ECLOF) to transform the lives of vulnerable women there.

Elena, a mother of three, is the sole provider for her family. As head of the household, Elena has worked non-stop selling food to support her family in a region where earning a living is very challenging. In the island community where Elena lives, the only mode of transportation is by boat. In order to distribute her products, Elena had to rent a boat which limited her profit and mobility. The family could barely make ends meet and did not have extra money to send the children to school.

Elena learned about a micro-finance opportunity with the ECLOF and Episcopal Relief & Development. She identified a means to improve her business and life prospects. Along with several other borrowers from her community, Elena formed a community bank that makes small loans to people living in poverty. With her loan, Elena purchased a rowboat. Her profits increased immediately and Elena has been able to expand her business to include the sale of handicrafts and candy. Best of all, now her children attend school and the cycle of poverty has been broken.

With a little help, women in impoverished settings around the world are acting as agents of change and strengthening their communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges.

As you honor and celebrate Mother’s Day, please pray for all those who have been affected by Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar. Join us in remembering people around the world suffering today because of disasters, war, poverty, and disease — particularly women and children who are especially vulnerable.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief & Development is providing emergency assistance to communities in Burma affected by Cyclone Nargis. The storm, packing winds up to 120 miles per hour, swept through the country on Saturday, leaving at least 23,000 people dead and 41,000 people missing. The low-lying Irrawaddy Delta region suffered the most severe damage.

The situation in Burma is dire. At best, the infrastructure in Burma is marginal and the storm has placed an unbearable strain on already limited services. Power outages and scattered debris across the country continue to hamper recovery efforts. Reports indicate that tens of thousands of homes were destroyed, leaving hundreds of thousands of people without shelter. The full extent of the damage throughout the country remains unclear due to poor communications and roads made impassable by the storm. In Rangoon, the capital, machete-wielding monks have taken to the streets to assist with clearing the wreckage.

Working with our local church partner, Episcopal Relief & Development is sending funds to secure shelter, food water and other relief needs for people displaced by the Cyclone. As part of our long term strategy, we have been working for the past two years with five dioceses on economic development including agriculture, livestock, and micro-loans, clean water and education programs.

“Episcopal Relief & Development’s response to the cyclone will involve a long term recovery and rehabilitation strategy for affected areas in which the church has a presence,” says Kirsten Laursen Muth, Senior Program Director for Asia and New Initiatives. “Our prayers are with the people of Burma at this very difficult time,” she added.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief and Development commemorates World Malaria Day. This year’s theme, “a disease without borders” highlights the need for cross-border action and cooperation in malaria prevention efforts.

Malaria, a parasitic disease carried by the anopheles mosquito, takes the largest toll on vulnerable populations in sub-Saharan Africa, though it is also present in Asia, Latin America/the Caribbean, the Middle East and parts of Europe. Despite international efforts to control it, a child dies from malaria every 30 seconds.

Episcopal Relief and Development is actively fighting the spread of malaria, which infects 500 million people a year and kills over 1 million, mostly children and pregnant women living in Sub-Saharan Africa. Our Millennium Development Goals (MDG) Inspiration Fund is dedicated to achieving MDG 6-Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases- and is in the process of raising $3 million dollars towards this effort.

Episcopal Relief and Development’s NetsforLife® program is a partnership to prevent malaria in 15 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The partnership is comprised of individual, foundation and corporate sponsors including Standard Chartered Bank, ExxonMobil Foundation, The Starr International Foundation, The White Flowers Foundation and The Coca-Cola Africa Foundation. NetsforLife® works in partnership with the Anglican Church and other ecumenical partners in affected communities to distribute long-lasting insecticide-treated nets to the most vulnerable, build awareness about malaria, and train community leaders to teach prevention and treatment methods.

“We know what we have to do,” says StephenDzisi, Technical Director of NetsforLife® .“Our ability to reach vulnerable families living ‘at the end of the road’ is the work of our Church and enables us to contribute to the global effort to eliminate malaria.”

Robert W. Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief and Development and Laura Ellen Muglia, Chair of Episcopal Relief and Development’s Seattle Women’s Development Council, will be traveling in Zambia, a country ravaged by malaria, on World Malaria Day. They will be spending two days with the Zambezi Expedition to highlight the importance of access to insecticide-treated nets and malaria prevention information for communities living on the riverbanks in extremely remote regions of Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Zambezi Expedition, sponsored by NetsforLife® and the Rollback Malaria Partnership, is a two-month voyage on the Zambezi River to showcase successes and underscore the challenges involved in the fight against malaria across the six countries of the Trans-Zambezi region. It aims to generate government and public support for a Zambezi-wide malaria control strategy that is currently in the making in Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

“I have seen firsthand how these long-lasting mosquito nets can make a difference between life and death from malaria for the poorest of the poor,” says Muglia. “Episcopal Relief and Development’s NetsforLife® program partnership is successful and effective in reaching those who live where others do not go, in training local communities to use the nets properly and consistently, and in ensuring the most vulnerable – children, pregnant women, the elderly, those with HIV/AIDS – are protected from malaria,” continued Ms. Muglia.

Episcopal Relief and Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Today, Episcopal Relief and Development commemorates Earth Day 2008. Earth Day is a call to action to protect the earth against the destructive impact of climate change on the health and well-being of all people.

By working to achieve Millennium Development Goal 7 -ensure environmental sustainability- Episcopal Relief and Development is committed to protecting the earth’s threatened ecosystem. The organization’s programs to alleviate hunger, create economic opportunities, promote health and fight disease and respond to disasters are implemented with respect for the earth and defend against environmental degradation while alleviating the suffering caused by poverty.

“Episcopal Relief and Development's programs strive to help individuals to address and to counteract the devastating effects of climate change at the local level,” says Abagail Nelson, Vice President of Programs for the agency.

Episcopal Relief and Development’s worldwide programs implement forestry projects, create tree nurseries and maintain woodlots. Families are provided with smokeless stoves that require minimal wood to burn and protect against the severe respiratory infections caused by the smoke from open fires. Farmers are taught innovative techniques that safeguard the land while improving the food supply. For example, in Ghana, Episcopal Relief and Development is working with the Anglican Diocesan Development and Relief Organization (ADDRO) to counter the effects of erratic rainfall which has been made worse in recent years by climate change.

Mariama, a 48 year-old mother of six was struggling to grind out an existence from a small farming plot in a part of Ghana that is plagued by persistent drought. Thanks to a local partnership between Episcopal Relief and Development, the Diocese of Tamale and ADDRO, Mariama was trained in soil-replenishing dry season vegetable gardening and was given $100 to become a member of a farming cooperative. Within one year, the group tripled their initial investment and added new crops to their rotation.

“Before the program we could hardly feed ourselves,” said Mariama, “now we can feed, clothe and educate our children.”

Episcopal Relief and Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

In May, many Americans will be receiving “economic stimulus” checks from the federal government in the hopes that the money will be spent to bolster the languishing economy. With a national debt of $9 trillion, the United States is arguably the most consumer-oriented society in the world. Far more goods than are needed, or that can be produced in an environmentally-sustainable manner, are purchased by people who already live lives of material plenty.

To highlight the global imbalance of wealth and to help direct the stimulus checks to people who can truly benefit from this money, Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation (EGR) launched the “Give it 4 Good” campaign http://www.giveit4good.org/ to encourage people to give all or part of the stimulus check (or a similar amount for those who don’t qualify) to an organization working to advance the Millennium Development Goals, a set of benchmarks established by the international community to cut rates of global poverty.

The “Give it 4 Good” campaign aims to redirect funds to organizations working to alleviate suffering while highlighting the unequal distribution of wealth in the world and the harmful environmental impacts of over-consumption and consumerism. Part of achieving Millennium Development Goal 7 -ensure environmental sustainability- begins with people who live in western countries limiting their consumption behavior.

“I am excited about Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation’s campaign to challenge the Church to raise it conscious regarding global distribution of wealth,” says Robert W. Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief and Development. “In the Prayers of the People, we pray that God would give us a ‘reverence for the earth’ and that ‘we may use its resources right in the service of others.’ The “Give It 4 Good” campaign is one way to put this prayer into action while allowing us to live in solidarity with those who are in want.”

In partnership with Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation, Episcopal Relief and Development is encouraging the Church to pledge all or part of their “economic stimulus” checks to support the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) Inspiration Fund, which was launched to promote health and fight disease by working to achieve MDGs 4, 5 and 6.

Episcopal Relief and Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Today, Episcopal Relief and Development commemorates World Health Day. This year’s theme, “protecting health from climate change” highlights the challenge of keeping our global neighbors healthy in the face of the destabilizing force of the human footprint on the planet’s ecological balance.

Climate change poses a unique set of health threats. From increasing the incidence of extremely destructive weather-related disasters like floods and droughts to changing the patterns and severity of infectious disease outbreaks, climate change is already impacting the health of people around the world.

“Many of Episcopal Relief and Development’s Africa partners report that they are experiencing increasingly long and frequent periods of drought, as well as there being more flash floods,” says Janette O’Neill, Program Director for Africa at Episcopal Relief and Development. “In the first three months of 2008, emergency support has been needed to cope with flooding in Mozambique, Zambia, Malawi, Angola and Namibia. In other areas rainfall is decreasing, becoming more unpredictable, and the seasons are less distinct,” reports O’Neill.

This unusual rainfall pattern has resulted in a decrease in available drinking water, disrupted agricultural cycles and declining crop yields. According to O’Neill in Burundi, changing weather patterns are enabling the malaria vector mosquitoes to spread into highland areas that were historically free from malaria.

By working to achieve Millennium Development Goals 6 and 7
–combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases and ensure environmental sustainability– Episcopal Relief and Development is committed to promoting the health of vulnerable populations while safeguarding the environment.

Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development supports integrated programs around the world that protect clean water sources, reforest barren lands and encourage efficient use of farm land. Health programs fight preventable diseases like malaria and HIV/AIDS and bring health services to isolated populations. And when disaster does strike, Episcopal Relief and Development’s disaster relief and community rebuilding projects provide immediate and long-term support to afflicted communities.

Episcopal Relief and Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief and Development commemorates World Water Day 2008, on Saturday, March 22. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Sanitation Matters!”

Clean water is a basic necessity for human life, yet 2.6 billion people around the world suffer from daily water shortages and struggle to access safe drinking water. In developing countries, more than 4,000 children die each day from preventable, water-borne diseases such as diarrhea, hepatitis and typhoid. Accessing clean water –as easy as turning a tap for residents of the western world– is a challenging and time-consuming endeavor for nearly a third of the world’s population, an activity that keeps children out of school and families shackled by poverty.

As access to clean water is a basic human right, Episcopal Relief and Development is especially committed to ensuring that communities have safe water sources and functional sanitation systems. By implementing innovative programs around the world that address basic needs, Episcopal Relief and Development works in partnerships with communities, members of the worldwide Church and ecumenical agencies to build wells, water systems and latrines, educate communities on hygiene and sanitation and reforest watershed lands to protect natural water sources.

“Clean water is a cornerstone of life. Where it is contaminated by pollution or poor sanitation, it can contribute to illness and even death,” says Abagail Nelson, Vice President for Programs at Episcopal Relief and Development. “Our programs are designed to empower communities to protect and manage it so that all benefit.”

Maria and Juan, parents of five children in the village of Bijagua in Nicaragua, used to retrieve their household water from a contaminated stream that was a ten-minute walk from their home. The children were constantly sick with diarrhea and the daughter who was tasked with collecting the water spent several hours a day ensuring that the family had enough for cooking, bathing, drinking and washing, causing her to fall behind in her school work.

In Nicaragua, Episcopal Relief and Development partners with El Porvenir, an organization that helps communities to create clean water and sanitation systems and implement reforestation projects to safeguard natural water sources. With Episcopal Relief and Development’s support, families in Bijagua received materials to build and maintain a clean water system and were given education and training on maintaining the system and protecting children from water-borne diseases. “Our daughter is excelling in school now that she doesn’t have to carry buckets of water!” said Maria. “And the children don’t have diarrhea anymore.”

Episcopal Relief and Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Episcopal Relief and Development commemorates International Women’s Day 2008, on Saturday, March 8. As women and their children make up the vast majority of the world’s one billion people living in poverty, Episcopal Relief and Development is especially committed to working to achieve Millennium Development Goal 3 –promote gender equality and empower women.

By implementing innovative programs around the world that address basic needs by promoting health, fighting disease and creating economic opportunities, Episcopal Relief and Development’s programs directly benefit women and their families.

The encompassing poverty that shackles the lives of poor women comes in many forms. For Elena, an indigenous Aymaran mother of three in the Puno region of Peru, poverty meant living on less than $1 per day and struggling to care for her family without the help of her husband, who suffers from alcoholism. Elena sold food to support the family, but had to spend much of her earnings renting a boat to reach her customers. The family could barely make ends meet and did not have money for the children to attend school.

When Elena learned about a micro-finance program sponsored by Episcopal Relief and Development, her journey of transformation began. The Ecumenical Church Loan Fund is supported by ERD’s partnership with the Anglican Diocese of Peru. Together with other borrowers in her community, Elena formed a community bank and was given a small loan that enabled her to purchase her own rowboat. Immediately her profits increased and not only has Elena repaid her loan and expanded her business, but her children are now attending school.

“When women are empowered to make informed decisions about health, education and nutrition in the household, whole economies are uplifted,” said Abagail Nelson, Vice President for Programs at Episcopal Relief and Development.

Episcopal Relief and Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief and Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief and Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) is pleased to announce the addition of three new members to its Board of Directors.

Nelson Famadas from Province IX, Diocese of Puerto Rico, Teri Lawver, Province II, Diocese of New Jersey and The Rev. Luther Ott, Province IV, Diocese of Mississippi each bring a wealth of experience to their new role as board members.

“The new members demonstrate considerable talent and personal commitment to the church in support of the mission of Episcopal Relief and Development,” said the Rt. Rev. Harry B. Bainbridge III, Chair of ERD’s Board. “I look forward to their contributions to the important work before us.”

“We welcome Mr. Famadas, Ms. Lawver and The Rev. Ott to the Episcopal Relief and Development family,” said Robert W. Radtke, President of ERD. “Their contribution as board members is vital to the success of our work.”

The three new board members are Episcopalians active in their congregations, professions and volunteer organizations. Mr. Famadas is a retired finance executive who serves on the board of various civic and charitable organizations in Puerto Rico and Florida.

Ms. Lawver is General Manager of the Animas Corporation, a Johnson & Johnson company, where she is leading the effort to implement a plan to transform diabetes standards of care across all Johnson & Johnson companies.

The Rev. Luther Smith Ott was ordained to the priesthood in 1998 after a successful career in law. He serves as the volunteer chaplain for Stewpot Community Services and is the volunteer Camp Director of Camp Coast Care; an ERD supported Hurricane Katrina recovery center located in Long Beach, Mississippi.

“Episcopal Relief and Development is honored to welcome these extraordinary individuals who have offered their time and talent and are willing to serve on our Board of Directors,” continued Radtke.

1/22/2008

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori has declared the first Sunday in Lent to be Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday. By inaugurating this annual event, the Presiding Bishop is urging Episcopalians across the country to live out the Baptismal Covenant by fighting extreme poverty and disease around the world.

This year, all gifts for Episcopal & Development Sunday will be designated for the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) Inspiration Fund. A joint initiative of Episcopal Relief and Development, Jubilee Ministries and the Executive Council, the MDG Inspiration Fund fights preventable diseases like malaria and HIV/AIDS and promotes health by providing clean water sources, smokeless stoves and trained community health workers in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Episcopal Relief & Development is offering several resources – including a Millennium Development Goals Prayers for the People and a list of ERD Sunday activities – to help congregations create an informative and engaging event. Please visit our website, www.er-d.org/erdsunday_CT, to download these materials, as well as other resources.

“We are grateful that the Presiding Bishop is calling attention to Millennium Development Goals and how integral they are to the mission and work of Episcopal Relief & Development,” said ERD President Robert W. Radtke. “We look forward to having Episcopal Relief and Development Sunday become an annual event that affords congregations across the country an opportunity to respond to the suffering of our global neighbors.”

To contribute to Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday, you can visit http://www.er-d.org/ or call 1.800.334.7626, ext. 5129.  Please specify that the gift is for “ERD Sunday/MDG Inspiration Fund” on the memo line of the check and mail gifts to: Episcopal Relief & Development, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058. Multiple checks collected from your church can be mailed together –please ensure that all checks are made payable to Episcopal Relief & Development and are designated for “ERD Sunday/MDG Inspiration Fund”.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. An independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

9/9/08                                                                                  

On September 1, only days after the poorest country in the western hemisphere had been slammed by Tropical Storm Fay and Hurricane Gustav, Tropical Storm Hanna blew through Haiti causing even more death and destruction. While most of Haiti was hit, the three most affected regions are Gonaives, the Department of South-East and the Department of Nippes.

Already, the triple storm combination has claimed the lives of 500 people in Gonaives alone.  Officials fear that the death toll will continue to rise.  In flooded Gonaives over 250,000 are without shelter, food and water. Across the country there are 800,000 people, roughly 10 percent of the population, in severe need of aid.  

Hurricane Ike has caused more rain in the region today. Haiti’s deforested mountainsides prevent no resistance to mudslides and flooding, increasing the degree of destruction. From the north to the south of the country bridges, roads and houses have been washed away, trees uprooted and crops decimated. The situation is dire.

In response to Hurricane Gustav, Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Diocese of Haiti’s Development Office to deliver aid to more than 1,000 people in the southern part of the country.  In addition, Episcopal Relief & Development is providing assistance in the northern part of Haiti to affected populations in response to Hanna and Ike.  Development Office staff are on site in the affected areas networking with local priests to distribute food, medical supplies, clothing and seeds for planting.

“The situation in Haiti is devastating,” says Matthew St. John, Program Officer for Latin America and the Caribbean at Episcopal Relief & Development. 

“We are seeking additional funds to prevent a humanitarian crisis from occurring in the country,” continued St. John. “Please hold the people of Haiti in your prayers.”

Episcopal Relief & Development continues to monitor the needs in other hard-hit countries in the Caribbean as well.

To support people in Haiti impacted by hurricanes, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Hurricane Relief Fund” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Hurricane Relief Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

The December installments of the two popular web series, Friends of Episcopal Relief & Development and Power of Partnerships, are now available online. Each month, these series highlight the importance of partners and supporters in furthering the agency’s mission to help those living in poverty and disease worldwide.

Around the world, 6,000 children die every day as a result of water-related diseases. This month’s Power of Partnerships illustrates the impact of providing clean water and sanitation for communities in need. In partnership with local organization El Porvenir, Episcopal Relief & Development is providing access to clean water, adequate sanitation and education about basic health and hygiene – transforming the lives of residents in over a dozen villages in rural Nicaragua.

Clean water is also the topic for this year’s final installment of Friends of Episcopal Relief & Development. The article features the work being done by Women of the World (WOW), a committee at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Kirkland, Washington. By holding a creative fundraising event called “St. John’s After Dark: Turning Wine Into Water,” the women of WOW have raised more than half of the money they’ll need to purchase a community well through the Gifts for Life catalog. This story is a wonderful example of innovative ways to engage a church in Episcopal Relief & Development’s work.

To learn more about Episcopal Relief & Development’s programming or to make a contribution to help people worldwide, please visit www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States and an independent 501(c)(3) organization. The agency takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

During Advent, Christians are called to reflect upon and give thanks for the abundance of God’s grace. It is a time of hope, expectancy and anticipation. In giving thanks and sharing good fortune with others, it is also important to remember those in need. 

“As we prepare for Christmas, it is important that we remember the spirit of the season and seize the opportunity to share God’s grace with others,” said Brian Sellers-Petersen, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Director of Church Engagement Programs.

This Advent, Episcopal Relief & Development has created opportunities to give gifts to loved ones while supporting people affected by poverty and disease worldwide. In partnership with Pura Vida Coffee, Episcopal Relief & Development is offering three Bishops Blend holiday gift boxes: the Bishops Blend Tea Gift Box, the Coffee and Chocolate Gift Box and the Fair Trade Coffee Gift Box. Individual packages of all Bishops Blend products are also available.

The purchase of organic, Fair Trade products both protects the environment and helps ensure that coffee and tea farmers are paid a living wage and have access to affordable credit. For Christmas delivery, order gift boxes by December 14. Orders placed after this date will require rush shipping.

Another way to honor loved ones is by purchasing a gift from Episcopal Relief & Development’s Gifts for Life catalog. There are a number of gifts to choose from, including a goat, a well and a year of school fees for a child orphaned by AIDS. The wide range of gifts and prices makes it easy for each customer to find the perfect gift. In lieu of printed gift cards, customizable e-cards are available to notify friends or family members of the gift purchased in their name.

“I’ve had the honor and privilege of seeing firsthand the immediate impact of our donors’ generosity,” said Sellers-Petersen. “During this holy season, we are grateful for all of the prayers and support that make it possible for us to heal a hurting world.”

For more information about Episcopal Relief & Development’s programs or to make a donation, visit www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

In early November, Episcopal Relief & Development received the largest bequest in the agency's history from long-time donor, Ella Brigham. A donor for over a decade, Brigham has contributed to various funds including Hurricane Relief and Clean Water. Her bequest, an undesignated gift, has furthered her legacy of generosity while enabling Episcopal Relief & Development to continue supporting those communities most in need worldwide.

"Undesignated contributions like this one are truly a blessing because they allow us to meet the most pressing needs of the moment, whether it is responding to a hurricane or providing a well for a community," said Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. "Ms. Brigham's bequest is an example of how one person can have a lasting impact through our planned giving program."

There are multiple ways to make a planned gift to Episcopal Relief & Development including bequests, life income gifts and other charitable contributions such as lead trusts and life estate contracts. For example, through The Matthew 25 Legacy Society, donors can leave a legacy by remembering Episcopal Relief & Development in their wills or selecting other giving opportunities that are most appropriate based on their finances and lifestyle.

"In these tough economic times, bequests and other planned gifts are an important part of sustaining the work of Episcopal Relief & Development," said Radtke. "We greatly appreciate the generosity of undesignated gifts like Ms. Brigham's, which allow us to both address immediate needs and also support long-term solutions that confront the problems faced by those living in extreme poverty."

To learn more about Episcopal Relief & Development's planned giving program please visit www.er-d.org/PlannedandLegacy, email externalaffairs@er-d.org or call 1-800-334-7626, ext.6355.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States and an independent 501(c)(3) organization. The agency takes its mandate from Jesus' words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow's challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Friends and supporters of Episcopal Relief & Development have been taking full advantage of the gift matching opportunity recently created by two very generous donors. Excited by the prospect of having each contribution matched, dollar-for-dollar up to $250,000, congregations and individuals have risen to the occasion, donating more than $200,000 with 14 days still to go before the November 30 deadline. 

“It has been inspiring to see so many loyal donors participating in this challenge,” said Episcopal Relief & Development President Rob Radtke.

As the fund nears its goal of $250,000, it is more important than ever that the organization’s supporters continue to contribute. The gift matching challenge is an opportunity for donors to select the fund of their choice, with the knowledge that their gift will have double the impact. The matching contribution for each donation will be allocated to the Area of Greatest Need fund.

Donors can make a difference in the area that matters most to them by choosing from any of Episcopal Relief & Development’s funds, such as Area of Greatest Need, Disaster Response, NetsforLife®, Hunger, Women’s Development and many others.  Purchasing a gift from the Gifts for Life catalog is another way to contribute.

“I am praying that we will meet our goal of $250,000,” said Radtke. “I hope that as many people as possible will take advantage of this matching opportunity while it lasts. These generous contributions enable us to continue supporting programs that meet the needs of those living in poverty worldwide.”

In order for gifts to be matched, Episcopal Relief & Development must receive them by November 30, 2009. To make a gift visit http://www.er-d.org/MatchingGiftChallenge/, call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129, or mail a check to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States and an independent 501(c)(3) organization. The agency takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Just in time for the gift giving season, Episcopal Relief & Development is pleased to present Christmas gift boxes featuring Bishops Blend Fair Trade and Organic coffee and tea.

In partnership with Pura Vida Coffee, Episcopal Relief & Development is offering three gift box choices that include several coffee varieties (either ground or whole bean) and two new organic teas, along with special Episcopal Relief & Development Promotional Materials:

• Bishops Blend Tea Gift Box – Organic Moroccan Mint Tea, Fair Trade Organic Earl Grey Tea and Almond Biscotti
• Coffee and Chocolate Gift Box – Bishops Blend Regular Coffee, Café de la Paz Coffee and Theo Fair Trade Chocolate Bar
• Fair Trade Coffee Gift Box – Bishops Blend Regular Coffee, Café de la Paz Coffee, Kaldi’s Roast Coffee, Theo Fair Trade Chocolate Bar and Almond with Dark Chocolate Biscotti

“The Bishop’s Blend program is an opportunity for congregations to enjoy great tasting, organic, Fair Trade coffee and tea while simultaneously helping people living in poverty around the world,” said Nina Bacas, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Co-Diocesan Coordinator for Virginia. “These coffees and teas were a sell-out at the St. Mary’s Alternative Gift Market! As gifts, they are perfect for Christmas and birthdays, and I use them as hostess gifts all year round.”

Organic, shade grown, and certified Fair Trade, Bishops Blend products protect the earth while ensuring that coffee and tea growers are paid a living wage and have access to affordable credit. These delicious coffees and teas make amazing gifts for anyone on your holiday gift list and are perfect for selling at church fundraisers. Ordering Bishops Blend to fulfill your home, office, and church needs is a great-tasting way to change the world – one cup at a time.

To purchase Bishops Blend gift boxes with personalized cards, please visit www.er-d.org/BishopsBlend or call Pura Vida at 877.469.1413. Contact a Pura Vida representative to purchase Bishops Blend at a discounted price for church fundraisers.

For more information about Episcopal Relief & Development or to support the organization’s programs worldwide, visit www.er-d.org or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States and an independent 501(c) (3) organization. The agency takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

On November 7th and 8th, El Salvador was hit by severe weather caused by a low-pressure system in the Atlantic Ocean related to Hurricane Ida. Receiving nearly 12 inches of rain in six hours, the nation was affected by widespread flooding and mudslides. The death toll currently stands at 194, with 80 people still missing.

Damage to El Salvador’s infrastructure has been extensive. A total of 223 dwellings have been destroyed and 630 are still at risk of collapse. As a result, nearly 14,300 people are living in 118 temporary shelters across the country. In addition, the floods damaged 34 bridges and 93 roads, 12 of which are still in the process of being reopened.

In response to the crisis, Episcopal Relief & Development is working with two partners, the Episcopal Church of El Salvador and the Asociacion CREDHO, to provide immediate relief. Both organizations have conducted needs assessments, evaluated capacity gaps and considered coordination opportunities in order to utilize funds to the fullest.

“Thankfully, through our network of valued, in-country partners we have been able to rapidly assess and respond to this extensive disaster,” said Matthew St. John, Episcopal Relief & Development Program Officer for Latin America and the Caribbean.

The support will help to provide food, potable water, basic medical supplies, hygiene kits, clothing and assistance for shelters, reaching approximately 2,200 people living in the six communities hit hardest by the storm, including San Salvador and San Vincente.

“While our assistance will aid those suffering in the wake of the storm, the needs of the people impacted are tremendous,” said St. John. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Salvadoran people.”

To support those in El Salvador impacted by the crisis, please donate to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Hurricane Relief” fund online at www.er-d.org/donate-select.php, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States and an independent 501(c)(3) organization. The agency takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

The Global Pneumonia Summit, held in New York City on Monday, officially kicked off the first annual World Pneumonia Day. Episcopal Relief & Development President Rob Radtke was a featured speaker at the gathering, along with Jeffrey Sachs, Director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University; Richard Besser, ABC News Senior Health and Medical Editor; and singer-songwriter Angélique Kidjo, a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.

Comprising more than 100 leaders in global health, philanthropy, business, government, nonprofit and faith-based organizations, the Summit centered on strategies to prevent and treat pneumonia. Radtke discussed Episcopal Relief & Development’s work in basic health care and how it is helping reduce child mortality from the disease, the leading cause of death for children under age five worldwide.

Noting that Episcopal Relief & Development was the only faith-based organization represented among the speakers, Radtke urged those concerned with pneumonia and child survival to leverage the reach, credibility and experience of all faith communities. “According to the World Health Organization, between 30% to 70% of health care delivery in Africa is owned or overseen by churches and other faith-based organizations,” he said.

Radtke also emphasized an integrated approach to child survival and urged those in attendance to focus on the full panoply of interventions—including proper nutrition, immunizations and malaria prevention—along with pneumonia treatment.

A webcast of the Global Pneumonia Summit, including Radtke’s presentation, will be available soon at worldpneumoniaday.org/live-webcast/.

Episcopal Relief & Development is a partner in the World Pneumonia Day Coalition, which was established in April 2009 and “seeks to bring focus on pneumonia as a public health issue and to prevent the millions of avoidable deaths from pneumonia that occur each year.” UNICEF has called the disease “the forgotten killer of children,” one that takes two million children each year—or a child every 15 seconds.

To support Episcopal Relief & Development’s work to eradicate preventable diseases worldwide, please make an online donation to the Health Fund at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Following two major bomb explosions in Baghdad on Sunday, Episcopal Relief & Development will assist the Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East (FRRME) and St. George’s Anglican Church in their medical, rebuilding and peacemaking efforts.

“We’re deeply saddened by this tragic event,” said Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. “The blasts have impacted our brothers and sisters at St. George’s Church, and many of the staff and members are unaccounted for. We’re holding the people of St. George’s and Baghdad in our prayers.”

At least 132 people were killed and more than 600 injured by the bombings. The church building, which also serves as FRRME’s headquarters, was badly damaged. In addition, the church’s clinic, which provides free medical and dental treatment to hundreds of people each week, had much of its equipment destroyed.

“Today was a terrible day for us. But even in the blood and trauma and turmoil, there are things for which we can, and indeed must, praise our God,” The Rev. Canon Andrew White, president of FRRME and vicar of St. George’s, said Sunday. “The carnage was terrible, but it could have been even worse. At 10.30am this morning, when the bombs exploded, there was no one in the church.”

The Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East also supports initiatives to increase peace and understanding among people of all beliefs. St. George’s Clinic, which serves all in need regardless of faith or ethnic background, includes staff members who are Muslim, Christian and Jewish. In addition, FRRME oversees the Inter-Religious Reconciliation Initiative, which works to promote dialogue between key religious leaders in Iraq.

“Some people ask me whether days like today make me want to give up,” Canon White said. “We have seen much of what we have worked for destroyed. But the truth is, it is days like today that remind us why our work in Iraq is absolutely essential.”

Episcopal Relief & Development is accepting contributions to support the Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East. To make a gift, please donate online to the Disaster Response Fund at https://www.er-d.org/donate-select.php, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058. 

Episcopal Relief & Development has become a member of the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). CFC is the world's largest and most successful annual workplace giving campaign, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, which oversees the program.

“Through our recent association with Global Impact, we have had the privilege of joining the Combined Federal Campaign,” said Robert Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. “We’re very happy to provide federal employees and retirees this opportunity to help eradicate extreme poverty around the world.”

Global Impact is a not-for-profit that raises awareness and funds for some of the most respected U.S.-based international humanitarian organizations. Each of the 55 current member charities must be recertified each year to ensure it conforms to Global Impact’s criteria. Established in 1956, the organization has raised more than $1 billion to help vulnerable people worldwide through corporate partnerships, online donations and workplace giving programs, including the CFC.

The CFC aims to promote workplace philanthropy by providing all federal employees—civilian, postal and military—the opportunity to support eligible nonprofit organizations. Millions of dollars are raised for humanitarian causes each year during the campaign, which runs from September 1 to mid-December.

If you are a federal employee or retiree who would like to support Episcopal Relief & Development in 2009, please use code 80416 to make a CFC pledge by December 15. For more information, please call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129, or visit https://www.er-d.org/CombinedFederalCampaign.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

As the holidays begin drawing near, Episcopal Relief & Development is enabling friends and supporters to honor loved ones with alternative gifts that benefit people living in poverty around the world. Through the Gifts for Life Christmas catalog, you can:

• Provide hot meals for school children to ensure they receive the necessary nutrition to grow, stay healthy and do well in their studies.
• Help families protect themselves through clean water and learning about basic hygiene and nutrition.
• Supply seeds, tools and training to establish a community garden that will be a reliable source of food for residents.

“We’re pleased to offer an expanded catalog and online store just in time for the holidays,” said Episcopal Relief & Development President Rob Radtke. “With a wide range of gifts, people of all ages can help others in need. I’m especially excited about our new Green Gifts section, which includes opportunities such as a solar energy system. This system will provide a family with an ongoing power source that’s healthy for both people and the environment.”

The upgraded Gifts for Life online store features expanded price categories that make it easy for customers to find selections at every level, as well as an improved electronic card process that provides more choices for honoring recipients with an e-card greeting.

In addition to personal stories from people who have improved their lives through Episcopal Relief & Development programs, this year’s catalog also features individuals and groups who have previously given Gifts for Life. These examples provide great ideas for ways that others can become involved, whether during the holidays or at other special times throughout the year.

To learn more about Gifts for Life and give a life-changing holiday gift, please visit www.er-d.org/GiftsforLife. For more information or to support one of the many other programs through which Episcopal Relief & Development is healing a hurting world, you can view our main website at www.er-d.org or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

NetsforLife^®, Episcopal Relief & Development’s program partnership to combat malaria, has received a three-year, $1.34 million grant for its work in Ghana from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

“We’re excited and pleased to receive this grant,” said Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. “In particular, this award recognizes the unique reach of the Anglican Communion in the remotest regions of Africa. NetsforLife^® utilizes this network of churches, faith-based groups and other organizations to benefit communities unreached by national health programs. I have personally visited our programs in Ghana and I can attest to their life-saving impact.”

The program partnership aims to increase use of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) through an integrated strategy of net distribution and awareness training. Goals for the Ghana initiative include providing 64,000 mosquito nets and equipping local leaders to educate community members in knowledge of net usage, malaria symptoms and effective treatment.

NetsforLife^® is a partnership of corporations, foundations, faith-based organizations and nongovernmental groups working to eliminate malaria in 17 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The program partnership, which has benefited more than 11 million people to date, includes ExxonMobil, Standard Chartered Bank, the Coca-Cola Africa Foundation, Starr International Foundation and the White Flowers Foundation.

“The USAID funding will allow us to target 140,000 people in some of the hardest-to-reach communities in northeastern Ghana,” said NetsforLife^® Executive Director Shaun Walsh. “These populations include approximately 25,000 children under five and 7,000 pregnant women, who are among those most vulnerable to malaria.”

Episcopal Relief & Development is one of seven organizations working in Africa that received a total of $10.5 million to extend malaria prevention at the community level. The grants were provided through the Malaria Communities Program of the President's Malaria Initiative (PMI), led by USAID, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

To help support NetsforLife^® anti-malaria efforts, please make an online donation to the Malaria/ NetsforLife^® fund at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Today, Episcopal Relief & Development has learned about the arrests of two former Church of South India (CSI) employees in Chennai, India, regarding the alleged misuse of funds related to tsunami relief efforts. The arrests were part of an ongoing local police investigation initiated by CSI, a United Church and a member of the Anglican Communion.

We are in the process of filing a separate legal action in accordance with our pledge of transparency and accountability to faithfully administer the funds that are received to assist vulnerable people. Two years ago, Episcopal Relief & Development raised concerns with the Church authorities when CSI failed to complete the financial reporting and required audits outlined in our agreement. Since then, we have suspended programs with CSI as we work to appropriately account for funds allocated in the aftermath of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. 

In keeping with board policy, we routinely hire international accounting and auditing firms to assess multi-year and long-term program partnerships. This audit process ensures the proper use of donated funds. In the case of CSI, we did not receive the required audits and as is our policy, we suspended programs immediately in order to gain clarity about the work completed. After two years, we were forced to pursue legal action. We expect our lawsuit to be filed in India within the next few days.

This situation is highly unusual in our work. By and large, our global partners are extremely diligent in providing required reports and conducting audits. Our partnership with CSI was only a portion of our tsunami response efforts. As per standard plans and agreements, clean audits were completed with our church partners in both North India and Sri Lanka.

We hope that the Indian authorities will work quickly to resolve this matter. Episcopal Relief & Development’s sole desire is that this money be used to benefit the people who were impacted by the tsunami, as originally intended. As this is a judicial and legal matter in India, we cannot comment further about the current situation.

Episcopal Relief & Development is committed to complete transparency on behalf of those we seek to serve and our faithful donors. We are deeply grateful for their support and prayers at this time.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief & Development welcomes Catherine (Katie) Mears as Program Manager for USA Disaster Preparedness and Response.

“We’re delighted to have Katie Mears on board,” said Abagail Nelson, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Senior Vice President for Programs. “Katie has been working with the Diocese of Louisiana, our program partner in post-Katrina community rehabilitation. On her first day in the office, she jumped right in to support the Diocese of Atlanta through last week’s flooding in the Southeast.”

The Diocese of Atlanta has been assisting churches such as Good Shepherd Episcopal in Austell, which opened its doors to people whose trailers were destroyed by floodwater. Canon Debbie Shew said, “Since the first hours of the growing disaster, [Episcopal Relief & Development] has been on the phone and in constant touch with us. Katie has been a constant partner, sharing practical ideas and information.”

Originally from Iowa, Katie is relocating to New York from New Orleans, where she has been working with the Diocese of Louisiana’s community rebuilding efforts. Partnering with people left homeless by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, she directed a program that has trained thousands of Episcopal volunteers in basic building skills, gutted and rebuilt destroyed homes, and created an environment of pastoral care, respect and empowerment.

Katie also has supported the Dioceses of Iowa and Texas in developing responses to recent disasters: the flooding of the Mississippi tributaries in spring 2008 and Hurricane Ike’s destruction of Galveston last September. Prior to her time in disaster response, she was a community organizer and journalist. Katie holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Grinnell College in Iowa.

“We have approved our strategic plan through 2012 with a high priority on domestic disaster response and preparedness,” said Episcopal Relief & Development President Rob Radtke. “Katie’s hiring is a major step toward our goal of helping U.S. dioceses prepare their congregations and communities to effectively respond to and recover from disasters.”

To support Episcopal Relief & Development’s domestic disaster relief efforts, please make an online donation at www.er-d.org or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Diocese of Taiwan to provide relief after the destruction of Typhoon Morakot which hit Taiwan on August 8-9, 2009. The worst flooding in at least half-century has claimed at least 67 lives and more than 60 people are missing.

The Most Rev. David Lai of Diocese of Taiwan expressed his gratitude to Episcopal Relief & Development for its support in the aftermath of the typhoon. “I have contacted all our clergy and have let them know that financial help is available to them and their church members who are affected themselves, or are involved in relief efforts,” said Bishop Lai. 

About 30 members from St. Mark's Church, Ping Tung, and St. Timothy's Church, Kaohsiung, have volunteered to help with the relief efforts, mostly through another faith-based organization in Taiwan. The work consists of clearing homes filled with mud as well as providing food and shelter to those impacted. All churches have been encouraged to send teams of volunteers to join the relief effort.

It has been difficult to reach many communities due to broken roads and collapsed bridges as well as communicate with them because of the electricity cuts and damaged telephone lines. Two members of his clergy are in the process of assessing the damage.

“The number of lives and homes lost to this disaster is still rising unfortunately. It is critical that those displaced by the storm have their basic needs met. We are inspired by the rapid response of the Diocese of Taiwan to volunteer and provide relief,” said Julie Petrie, Program Associate, Asia for Episcopal Relief & Development.

To support people in Taiwan impacted by the typhoon, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Disaster Response Fund” online, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Disaster Response Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

With heavy rains worsening the situation for displaced Sri Lankans, Episcopal Relief & Development is continuing to support the relief efforts.

Earlier this year, a battle between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers rebel group forced nearly 300,000 people to leave their homes. When the fighting ended, the government declared the 25-year conflict over and established camps to temporarily house internally displaced persons (IDPs) while they await resettlement. Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) agreed to assist in providing relief services during that period.

The process has been slow, however. Four months later, the vast majority of IDPs still live in the temporary camps and NGOs are struggling to support the continuing needs. Adding to the problem, heavy rains in mid-August flooded the camps and destroyed the common kitchens, making IDPs even more vulnerable to hunger and disease.

Episcopal Relief & Development’s partners include the Organization of Eelam Refugees Rehabilitation (OfERR), the Diocese of Colombo and the Diocese of Kurunagala. OfERR has been working in Sri Lanka’s Vavuniya district since last November and will continue assisting more than 11,800 in and around the Manik IDP camp for the next six months. In addition, the Dioceses of Colombo and Kurunagala are providing relief items and medicine to hospitals that have been treating IDPs since early 2009, according to Nagulan Nesiah, Episcopal Relief & Development Program Officer for Asia.

The IDPs are dependent on humanitarian aid for survival, as they have limited movement within the camps as per government restrictions. “Our support will enable our partners to continue supplying critical food relief, as well as personal hygiene supplies, bedding, cooking utensils and other basic items that most people were forced to leave behind when they fled,” Nesiah said.

According to Nesiah, many IDPs are experiencing frustration and stress, and some are suffering depression and anxiety. “Our partners are also providing trauma care and psychosocial support to IDPs, who have experienced many years of war and violence, as well as being forced from their homes,” he said.

“We will continue monitoring the situation to ensure that OfERR and our diocesan partners have the support they need to continue serving them.”

For more information on Episcopal Relief & Development and our partners’ work in Sri Lanka, visit www.er-d.org. To support Episcopal Relief & Development’s disaster programs, please make an online donation to the Disaster Response Fund at https://www.er-d.org/donate-select.php, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can also be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

In less than one week, they have received generous contributions from the Episcopal Church and Episcopalians around the country. To date, the Bishops Bike Ride has brought in $11,138 in contributions and $21, 744 in pledges towards NetsforLife® which provides insecticide-treated nets and training in 17 countries to prevent malaria.

The team departed Pueblo, Colorado on Tuesday July 21 and is moving towards the flatlands of Kansas through July 23. They encourage those who have a bike, to join them for the ride. To view a map of their route click here. Also, you can follow this inspiring cross country journey and view daily updates as well as photos on the“Riding for Their Lives” blog.

Bishop Hollingsworth considers the ride a “stretch” on all levels. “Physically, the riders and crew are challenged to know their limits and live with them… relationally, living in very close quarters and trying to accomplish together a great challenge… and as an act of mission as it opens our hearts to those on behalf of whom we are riding and inspires us to give more generously of ourselves. And it is a stretch for us spiritually as we are continuously awed by the creation through which we are pedaling and given the contemplative time that distance cycling provides for listening to God,” said Bishop Hollingsworth in a recent posting on his personal blog.

The bike ride took off at the close of the Episcopal Church’s 76th General Convention on Friday, July 17 at the Anaheim Convention Center in California and will end at the Episcopal Church Center in New York City.

To make a contribution in support of the ride, please donate online to “Bishops Bike Ride” or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can also be mailed to “Bishops Bike Ride” Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

 Follow the cyclists on Twitter: http://twitter.com/EpiscopalRelief

Read Bishop Hollingsworth’s blog: http://ohiobishop.blogspot.com

View updates on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=98625948876

To view their map, click below: http://www.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&vps=1&jsv=165c&hl=en&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=116379344375437994955.00046e256c1ac3b3e6174

 Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

 [July 27, 2009] An enthusiastic crowd of well-wishers will gather and welcome eight cyclists, led by Bishop Mark Hollingsworth of Ohio, as they bike into NYC and complete “Riding for Their Lives,” their cross-country trek on Tuesday, July 28. Their final destination is the Episcopal Church Center, 815 Second Ave., NYC (at 43rd St.).

 Hollingsworth and his team of seven cyclists are raising funds for Episcopal Relief & Development’s program partnership, NetsforLife®. They left Anaheim, California, at the conclusion of the Episcopal Church General Convention on Friday, July 17. 

Alternating the cycling during the 4000-mile trek to New York are team mates: the Rev. Kelly O'Connell, rector of St. Mark's, Toledo, and route planner; the Rev. Stephen Sedgwick, rector of the Church of the Redeemer, Lorain; the Rev. Daniel Orr, priest-in-charge of St. Paul’s, Fremont; Carl Petterson, from Christ Church, Hudson, and recent high school graduate; Greg Daniels, an IBM consultant from Christ Church, Hudson; Isaac Hollingsworth, the bishop’s son and high school sophomore at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire; and Michael Obel-Omia, former head of the Upper School of the University School in Cleveland and parishioner at St. Paul’s, Cleveland Heights. Providing encouragement and helping drive the support vehicles are the Rev. Gary Mitchener, a retired priest of the Diocese of Ohio, Erin Kirby, an Episcopal Relief & Development Seminarian Coordinator and Martha Gardner, an Episcopal Relief & Development Diocesan Coordinator and Deputy from the Diocese of Newark.

 Episcopal Relief & Development’s NetsforLife® program partnership provides insecticide-treated nets in 17 countries to prevent malaria which kills nearly 1 million people each year. To make a donation in support of the ride or to learn more about Episcopal Relief & Development and NetsforLife®, call (800) 334-7626 or visit www.er-d.org.

 Follow the cyclists on Twitter: http://twitter.com/EpiscopalRelief     

Daily updates, photos, blogs http://ohionets4life.ning.com                                                                                                                                              Bishop Hollingsworth: ohiobishop.blogspot.com
The Rev. Kelly O'Connell: travelswithclementine.blogspot.com
Michael Obel-Omia: publiusrex.wordpress.com
Greg Daniels: biketrip4erd.blogspot.com
Carl Petterson: carlbikeride.blogspot.com                                                                                                                                                                     To view their map, click below:                                                                                                                            http://www.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&vps=1&jsv=165c&hl=en&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=116379344375437994955.00046e256c1ac3b3e6174

The General Convention officially declares the First Sunday in Lent as the Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday.

“We are pleased to be recognized at the beginning of the Lenten season. It is a wonderful time for Episcopalians to reflect on the needs of our sisters and brothers and to join us in our global efforts towards healing a hurting world." said Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development.

Lent is a time for self-reflection, meditation and prayer. Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday will serve as an opportunity for congregations across the country to engage with the Episcopal Church’s ongoing commitment to fighting extreme poverty and disease around the world.

The dioceses of Southern Ohio, San Diego, Tennessee and 29 other dioceses across the nation adopted the resolution prior to the convention. "I am so pleased that the designation of the first Sunday in Lent as Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday by the Diocese of Tennessee and other dioceses has helped acknowledge the importance of this ministry. I am thrilled that the passing of resolution A178 makes that date official on our Calendar," said Susan Cowperthwaite, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Diocesan Coordinator in the Diocese of Tennessee.

To learn more about Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday, click here.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Anaheim, Calif. - The Rt. Rev. Mark Hollingsworth, Bishop of the Diocese of Ohio, and seven other cyclists will ride across the country beginning at the close of the Episcopal Church’s 76th General Convention on Friday, July 17 at approximately 6:00 p.m.

The eight to ten day journey - “Riding for Their Lives” - starts at the Anaheim Convention Center in California and ends at the Episcopal Church Center in New York City with a goal of raising funds for Episcopal Relief & Development’s NetsforLife® program partnership. NetsforLife® provides insecticide-treated nets in 17 countries to prevent malaria which kills nearly 1 million people each year.

Bishop Hollingsworth says, "This ride embarks from a General Convention that has demonstrated again the Church's explicit and sacrificial commitment to addressing the needs of the poor through the work of the Millennium Development Goals. Having passed legislation that seeks to inspire individuals to save lives by supporting NetsforLife®, “Riding for Their Lives” is intended to inspire and encourage all to join enthusiastically the Church's lifesaving work."

Bishop Hollingsworth organized the first Bishop's Bike Ride in 2006- a 245-mile ride home to Cleveland from the General Convention in Columbus, Ohio. For the 4000-mile Anaheim to New York trip, Hollingsworth will alternate riding with seven fellow cyclists and colleagues passing through 20 Episcopal dioceses along the way. He will be joined by the Rev. Kelly O'Connell, rector of St. Mark's, Toledo, and route planner; the Rev. Stephen Sedgwick, rector of the Church of the Redeemer, Lorain; the Rev. Daniel Orr, priest-in-charge of St. Paul’s, Fremont; Carl Petterson, from Christ Church, Hudson, and recent high school graduate; Greg Daniels, an IBM consultant from Christ Church, Hudson; Isaac Hollingsworth, the bishop’s son and high school sophomore at St. Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire; and Michael Obel-Omia, former head of the Upper School of the University School in Cleveland and parishioner at St. Paul’s, Cleveland Heights. Providing encouragement and helping drive the support vehicles are the Rev. Gary Mitchener, a retired priest of the Diocese of Ohio, Erin Kirby, an Episcopal Relief & Development Seminarian Coordinator and Martha Gardner, an Episcopal Relief & Development Diocesan Coordinator and Deputy from the Diocese of Newark.
                                                                                                                                                                                                 To make a donation in support of the ride or to learn more about Episcopal Relief & Development and NetsforLife®, call (800) 334-7626 or visit www.er-d.org.

Follow the cyclists on Twitter: http://twitter.com/EpiscopalRelief
Bishop Hollingsworth’s blog: http://ohiobishop.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=98625948876
Or on this map:http://www.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&vps=1&jsv=165c&hl=en&oe=UTF8&msa=0&msid=116379344375437994955.00046e256c1ac3b3e6174 

 Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

The “Malaria Zambezi River Expedition” premieres on 7/18 at 8pm with repeat airings on 7/22 at 9pm; 7/26 at 10pm; and 7/30 at 9pm. In March 2008, the expedition set off on a 2 month journey down the Zambezi River to spread global awareness of malaria and mobilize donor support for effective protection and treatment.

Watch as their boats stop off on Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique to take on board local malaria control staff and journalists for a tour of remote river communities exposed daily to life-threatening malaria parasites. To learn more about the expedition please visit www.zambezi-expedition.org.

Malaria, a preventable and treatable disease, kills more than a million people worldwide each year—90 percent of them in Africa; 70 percent children under the age of five.

NetsforLife®, Episcopal Relief & Development’s program partnership, was one of many sponsors to support the expedition. “It was an amazing experience to be part of this historic occasion. The Zambezi River Expedition team is a group of outstanding individuals dedicated to ending malaria.” said Laura Ellen Muglia, a supporter and active volunteer of Episcopal Relief & Development. Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development also participated in the expedition.

In partnership with corporations, foundations, NGOs and faith-based organizations, NetsforLife® implements integrated malaria-prevention programs in 17 countries across sub-Saharan Africa. To learn more about NetsforLife® please click here.

To make a contribution for the NetsforLife® program, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development online at www.er-d.org designated for malaria NetsforLife® fund or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058. Please write NetsforLife® in the memo of check.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

At the 76th General Convention, Episcopal Relief & Development will expand the Bishops Blend line by launching new organic, Fair Trade certified Bishops Blend tea in two flavors. Bishops Blend tea is now available in Organic Moroccan Mint, a refreshing, vibrant, caffeine-free tea, and Organic Earl Grey, a premium Assam black tea with the robust, fruity flavor of bergamot fruit.

 The mission of Pura Vida is to use all of our resources and energy to do as much for coffee farmers and their families as possible. By devoting our resources back to coffee growing communities in the form of health, education and infrastructure projects, we are helping to create strong and sustainable communities.  

Each purchase of Bishops Blend tea and coffee supports Episcopal Relief & Development’s efforts to alleviate hunger and fight diseases. These programs help: 

• Farmers learn better techniques to increase their crops and feed their families
• Women gain new job skills so they can support their children
• Communities rebuild after disasters
• Children orphaned by AIDS receive education, care and counseling
• ... and much more! 

“We are excited to partner with Episcopal Relief & Development to release Bishops Blend Organic Moroccan Mint and Bishops Blend Organic Earl Grey teas which will offer our customers new ways to make a profound difference in the lives of farmers and their families in developing countries around the world,” said John Hollister, National Director of Sales and Marketing for Pura Vida.

 “We anticipate great success with our new line of teas and look forward to continuing a strong partnership with Pura Vida,” said Lorenzo Martinez, Vice President of External Affairs for Episcopal Relief & Development.

 Special wholesale prices are available for churches as well as functions and fundraisers. To learn more about how to fundraise with Bishops Blend, visit www.er-d.org/BishopsBlend.

 Episcopal Relief & Development will be serving Bishops Blend coffee and tea at General Convention and invites all attendees to stop by booth 600 for free samples.

 To learn more about how purchasing Bishops Blend helps heal a hurting world and place an order online visit http://www.er-d.org/BishopsBlend or call Pura Vida customer service representatives at 877.469.1431.

 Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria. 

In our continuing efforts to ensure funds are properly used to benefit the victims of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, Episcopal Relief & Development filed a civil case against the Church of South India (CSI) and its former leadership on Friday, October 23rd in Chennai, India.

Two years ago, Episcopal Relief & Development approached the local Church authorities with concerns when CSI failed to complete the financial reporting and required audits outlined in our agreement for 2005 and 2006. As a result, we suspended work with CSI and implemented an in-depth effort to recover the funds that are unaccounted for. After a lengthy process, we deeply regret that we have been forced to take legal action.

While this situation is highly unusual, we strive to honor our commitment to the people we serve around the world and the generosity of our faithful donors. By and large, our global partners are extremely meticulous in providing required reports and conducting audits as required by the terms of our partnership agreements. Our partnership with CSI was only a portion of our tsunami response work. As per standard plans and procedures, clean audits were completed with our church partners in both North India and Sri Lanka.

The sole objective of our ongoing efforts to recover the tsunami relief funds is to fulfill our original intent to faithfully administer the funds that are received on behalf of vulnerable people.

As this is a legal matter, we cannot comment further about the current situation. We have faith in the Indian judicial system and believe this case will be handled fairly.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c)(3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

The ongoing fighting between Pakistan's military and the Taliban rebels has caused massive chaos, violence and displacement in the country. According to USAID, more than two million citizens have been forced out of their homes since the fighting intensified in early May. The number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) continues to increase at an alarming rate. United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, António Guterres, claims that the current displacement crisis in Pakistan is the most significant and fastest growing since the Rwandan Genocide of 1994.

Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Diocese of Peshawar in Pakistan in response to this IDP emergency. The Diocese of Peshawar has set up a relief camp to accommodate families who have lost their homes due to the fighting. Rising temperatures are making conditions in the camp increasingly difficult, especially for newborns and expectant mothers. The diocese is taking precautions to avoid heatstroke as well as water related diseases and malaria. In addition to shelter and basic provisions, the Diocesan Mission Hospital in Peshawar is providing free medical services.

The displaced people are in immediate need of critical food and basic supplies. Emergency funds from Episcopal Relief & Development will provide 600 displaced people with relief packages containing essential provisions including grains, beans, sugar, dry milk, cooking oils, soap, sanitation supplies and matches.

“Our local partners in the Diocese of Peshawar are doing everything within their power to care for the recently displaced people in the face of dangerous and increasingly overwhelming conditions” said Julie Petrie, Episcopal Relief & Development Program Officer for Asia. “We will remain in close contact with our partners in Pakistan and will respond in the upcoming months with additional aid to assist civilians who have been forced out of their homes by the ongoing conflict.”

To make a contribution to help displaced families in Pakistan, please donate to Episcopal Relief & Development’s Disaster Response Fund online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

On May 4, Alaskan villages on the Yukon River were inundated by the worst flood that the state has seen in decades. The flood destroyed homes, forced residents out of their communities and leveled an Episcopal Church in the remote village of Eagle. Now, the Episcopal Diocese of Alaska is in the emergency phase of the disaster and anticipates a difficult and long recovery.

“Our conversations thus far have focused on both physical needs and spiritual and emotional needs of those impacted in individual villages and at evacuation sites,” said Abagail Nelson, Senior Vice President, Programs of Episcopal Relief & Development. “The church is particularly concerned with the needs of children at the moment.”

Episcopal Relief & Development is providing emergency funds to support relief efforts in Alaska. This response will provide meals to people impacted by the flood, transportation for clergy and other grief and stress professionals who will offer emotional support and basic supplies for children and their parents in evacuation sites.

Episcopal Relief & Development remains in close contact with the Episcopal Diocese of Alaska and continues to monitor needs as the affected communities recover.

To support people in Alaska impacted by floods, please make a donation to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Disaster Response Fund” online at www.er-d.org , or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development “Disaster Response Fund” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

The current hostilities in Sri Lanka between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) have intensified the scale of the humanitarian crisis in the country. Reports continue of death and injury to civilians trapped in the main conflict zone in the northeast of the country while the humanitarian resources in other areas are being strained by the high number of people fleeing the hostilities. 

As a result of the fighting, local infrastructure and communication systems have been destroyed. Initial reports indicate an urgent need for basic items to assist Internally Displaced People (IDP), which number at least 230,000 according to the United Nations Refugee Agency.

Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Diocese of Colombo in response to the IDP emergency. Both entities are providing shelter, bedding, food, water and medical assistance to displaced people in camps and a hospital. Episcopal Relief & Development will strengthen its response as the situation unfolds.

“Our local partners are continuing to provide invaluable relief services in very difficult circumstances as the humanitarian crisis deepens in the conflict-affected regions,” said Nagulan Nesiah, Episcopal Relief & Development Program Officer for Asia. “We are moved by the commitment and stand in solidarity with their efforts.”

To make a contribution to help people worldwide, please donate to Episcopal Relief & Development online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

A recent outbreak of swine influenza was confirmed on April 24th, 2009 when eight confirmed cases were diagnosed in the United States. Several schools in New York, Texas, California and Ohio are closing this week as a result of students contracting the flu. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) declared a public health emergency as a precautionary measure and encourages preparedness. The CDC and the White House assure the public that there is no cause for alarm.

As part of the Domestic Disaster Response program, Episcopal Relief & Development is closely monitoring the needs related to swine flu by remaining in regular contact with public health officials and authorities on both national and local levels. Episcopal Relief & Development is also reaching out to potential collaborative responders through the network of agencies affiliated with the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters.

"Swine flu is currently being handled by the health authorities," said Abagail Nelson, Senior Vice President for Programs at Episcopal Relief & Development. "We are, however, prepared to respond through our church networks should we be needed."

Extensive information about preparing for the swine flu and other potential pandemic influenza outbreaks is available on Episcopal Relief & Development's web site. This site links to strong examples of pandemic preparedness plans and provides resources that can help people to maintain business continuity and provide for congregational gathering needs should an outbreak occur.

"It is our hope that by preparing for the possibility of an influenza pandemic, the Episcopal community will be better able to protect each other and serve those in need," said Nelson.

For more information about pandemic influenza visit www.er-d.org/PlanningforPandemicInfluenza. To support Episcopal Relief & Development's Domestic Disaster programs, please make a donation online to the Disaster Response Fund at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

In the face of an international H1N1 flu pandemic and the approach of the regular influenza season, Episcopal Relief & Development is providing resources and information to help people prepare in the event of a public health emergency.

According to Dr. Thomas Frieden, director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a new study estimates that the recent outbreak of H1N1 (also known as swine flu) infected more than one million Americans, including 800,000 in New York City.

“National and local health officials will take the lead in responding to a pandemic, and faith-based and community-based organizations are here to equip people with critical information,” said Abagail Nelson, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Senior Vice President for Programs.

On June 11, the World Health Organization stated that a worldwide H1N1 pandemic is underway. WHO estimates that due to lack of immunity against the new virus, one-third of the global population will become infected with H1N1—far higher than the typical seasonal flu infection rate of 5% to 20%.

Episcopal Relief & Development is maintaining regular contact with national and local public health officials. “Our U.S. disaster response and preparedness staff are staying up to date on the public health situation, and on our website we have compiled current data and links to online information,” Nelson said.

“We hope that these materials will help Episcopalians and the general community to be prepared and know what to do in the face of a pandemic, including assessing individual health needs and seeking care with medical providers if they become ill.”

Information on preparing for potential H1N1 and other influenza outbreaks is available on the Episcopal Relief & Development website. The site links to examples of preparedness plans and provides resources that can help faith-based and other organizations continue operating effectively and provide support to communities affected by a health crisis.

For more information, visit www.er-d.org/PlanningforPandemicInfluenza. To support Episcopal Relief & Development’s domestic disaster programs, please make an online donation to the Disaster Response Fund at https://www.er-d.org/donate-select.php, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can also be mailed to Episcopal Relief & Development, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.

NetsforLife® will reaffirm this pledge at the One World Against Malaria Summit hosted by the U.N. Secretary General’s Special Envoy for Malaria and the Center for Interfaith Action on Global Poverty in Washington, D.C. this week. The Summit will feature major players in the fight against malaria including United Nations Ambassador, Susan Rice.

NetsforLife® partner, the Rt. Rev. Albert Chama of Zambia will provide details about the work in country. The program partnership will be represented by Executive Director, Shaun Walsh; Dr. Steven Phillips of Exxon Mobil; Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development and Chairman of the Board of Episcopal Relief & Development, the Rt. Rev. Robert J. O’Neill, Bishop of the Diocese of Colorado.

NetsforLife® brings together corporations, foundations, faith-based organizations and private donors in a collaborative initiative focused on eliminating malaria in Africa.

Malaria is one of the biggest killers in sub-Saharan Africa, with a staggering human and economic cost. Transmitted through infected mosquitoes, malaria:

• Infects 300 to 500 million people every year
• Kills 3,000 children a day and nearly 1 million people annually
• Costs an estimated $12 billion in lost productivity in Africa

The distribution of one insecticide-treated net can save three people from malaria. Seven million nets can save 21 million from illness and death. When insecticide-treated nets are properly used by three-quarters of the community, malaria transmission is cut by 50%, child deaths by 20%, and the mosquito population drops by as much as 90%.

The Phase 2 initiative will be the largest distribution of nets yet by NetsforLife® and an unprecedented commitment towards eliminating malaria.

“NetsforLife® is pleased to be one of the key organizations helping to educate and save lives from malaria,” says Shaun Walsh, Executive Director, NetsforLife®. “Our education efforts have helped to raise knowledge about malaria transmission from 50% to 82% in sub-Saharan Africa. Over 11 million people have benefited to date from distribution of the nets. We are now looking forward to reaching even more of those, especially children, most vulnerable to malaria.”

NetsforLife® works with partners to eliminate malaria by distributing insecticide-treated nets and educating local communities in the hardest to reach areas in Africa. Working with community leaders, the program instills a “net culture”- an understanding of the value of nets and the correct way to use and maintain them. Programs also provide access to testing and treatment.

Supported by ExxonMobil Foundation, Standard Chartered Bank, Coca-Cola Africa Foundation, the Starr International Foundation and White Flowers Foundation, and NGO partner Episcopal Relief & Development, NetsforLife® implements integrated malaria prevention programming in 17 malaria endemic countries in sub-Saharan Africa through a vibrant network of local churches, faith-based organizations and NGOs.

To make a contribution to help eliminate malaria, please donate to NetsforLife® online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, designated for NetsforLife®/Malaria Fund, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

To help Episcopal Relief & Development give communities access to clean water, please visit www.er-d.org or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, “Clean Water Fund” PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is pleased to welcome three new members to its Board of Directors: The Rt. Rev. Dena A. Harrison from Province VII, Ms. Flo McAfee, Province III and the Rev. Jay Sidebotham, Province V.

"Episcopal Relief & Development is richly blessed by talented leadership on its Board of Directors, and the addition of our new members brings strength upon strength to the board of a great organization,” said the Rt. Rev. Robert J. O’Neill, Chair of Episcopal Relief & Development’s board. “I look forward to working with them in the days ahead.”

The three new board members are actively involved Episcopalians and bring skills and gifts from their respective professions.

The Rt. Rev. Dena A. Harrison has been the Bishop Suffragan of the Diocese of Texas since 2006. She currently serves as Chair of St. Luke’s Episcopal Health Charities and as a trustee of St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital System and the Seminary of the Southwest.

Ms. Flo McAfee manages a strategic communications firm that specializes in multicultural media relations. She has extensive experience in public relations and cause-related marketing and has produced several educational videos and documentaries.

The Rev. Jay Sidebotham is Rector of the Church of the Holy Spirit, Lake Forest, Illinois. He is an author and illustrator for the Church Pension Group and Morehouse Publishing where he produces the art for the Church Pension Group Calendar, Advent and Lenten calendars and books for children of all ages. His artwork was featured in Episcopal Relief & Development’s 2008 Lenten Devotional. To read their full bios please visit our website at www.er-d.org/BoardofDirectors.

“The new members demonstrate diverse and strong talents which will bring great energy and experience to Episcopal Relief & Development’s Board of Directors” said Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. “I look forward to working with each of them as they offer their gifts in assisting Episcopal Relief & Development in its mission of healing a hurting world.”

“Episcopal Relief & Development is honored to welcome Bishop Harrison, Flo McAfee, and Jay Sidebotham. We are grateful that they are willing to contribute their time and talent to the Board of Directors,” continued Radtke.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development’s Millennium Development Goals Inspiration Fund is close to meeting its target of raising $3 million for global health programs by the end of 2009. 

In late 2006, Episcopal Relief & Development, Jubilee Ministries and the Executive Council of the Episcopal Church joined together to establish the MDG Inspiration Fund with the aim of fighting preventable diseases. Episcopal Relief & Development launched the Fund with the support of a generous grant comprising 0.7% of the Episcopal Church’s budget over three years.

Since then, the MDG Inspiration Fund has stimulated tremendous support from individuals and churches across the country. This Fund and other resources have enabled Episcopal Relief & Development to implement programs that reduce child mortality, improve maternal health and combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and water-born illnesses in Africa, Asia and Latin America.
In Latin America Episcopal Relief & Development is engaging Jubilee Ministries in development work. For example, Episcopal Relief & Development partners with Siempre Unidos, a Jubilee Center in Honduras. This organization provides flexible employment opportunities that enable people living with HIV/AIDS to provide for themselves and their families. In the Dominican Republic, Jubilee partner Clinica Esperanza y Caridad (the Clinic of Hope and Charity) brings health services to the poor in the San Pedro de Macoris area. This year, Episcopal Relief & Development is establishing an integrated and diverse program in Colombia partly with Mision Cristo Rey, a Jubilee Center, to provide training for at-risk youth in an Afro-Colombian community.
Last year, the MDG Inspiration Fund supported programs that trained roughly 45,000 people about HIV prevention and provided medical support to more than 15,000 people affected by the virus. Money from the Fund also was used to build wells, latrines and water stations that protected thousands of people from water-born illnesses in 2008.

The Fund has assigned $2 million of the total $3 million to support NetsforLife®, a partnership for malaria prevention in sub-Saharan Africa. So far, NetsforLife® has distributed more than one million long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, primarily to children and pregnant women living in remote villages. Third party evaluators estimate that between 2006 and 2008 the lives of approximately 12,000 children under five were saved as a result of NetsforLife®. The program has already protected more than 11 million people from malaria.

“The generosity and compassion of countless Episcopalians has made the MDG Inspiration Fund a remarkable success,” said Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & Development. “We are now within $250,000 of our goal and hope to achieve it by General Convention,” said Radtke.

On March 1st, Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday, congregations are encouraged to have a special offering to benefit Episcopal Relief & Development’s MDG Inspiration Fund. Click here for a bulletin insert. Episcopal Relief & Development also offers a Lenten Devotional, Peace & Compassion: To Heal a Hurting World, which features daily meditations adapted from the Rev. Barbara C. Crafton’s Almost-Daily Emos and stories about the beneficiaries of the MDG Inspiration Fund. To order copies of the devotional or sign up for daily email Lenten meditations visit www.er-d.org/Lentenresources. More information about how to celebrate Episcopal Relief & Development Sunday is available at www.er-d.org/ERDSunday_CT.

To help Episcopal Relief & Development fight disease through the MDG Inspiration Fund, please visit www.er-d.org or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, “MDG Inspiration Fund” PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. All programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Late Saturday, El Salvador was hit by a large storm caused by a low pressure system indirectly linked to Hurricane Ida, characterized by 145-kilometer-per-hour winds, heavy rains and flooding. The country’s Civil Protection authorities reported that 91 people were killed, 60 missing, and hundreds injured.

Following Ida’s assault, Episcopal Relief & Development has been in contact with its program partners, the Anglican Episcopal Diocese of El Salvador, Asociacion CREDHO and Asociacion Mangle. The agency is standing ready to support the partners with emergency relief to devastated communities.

“We are working with our local partners to collect information, contact affected communities, and assess the current situation,” said Matt St. John, Episcopal Relief & Development’s Program Officer for Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Once the assessment is complete, we will formulate a response based on the needs and available resources,” St. John said. “In the meantime, the Anglican Episcopal Church of El Salvador is providing pastoral care in several affected communities, including in the area of Bajo Lampa and the department of San Vicente.”

El Salvador’s central region was hardest hit, with the Chinchontepec volcano causing a mudslide near San Vicente that claimed several victims. According to Civil Defense chief Jorge Melendez, the number of fatalities could rise as rescue services continue combing the eastern regions. Major roads into the country are blocked, five bridges have collapsed, and thousands of people are in emergency housing.

The Most Rev. Martín Barahona, Primate of the Anglican Church of the Region of Central America (IARCA), said, "We are praying for the families and are in communication with other institutions and sister churches at the national, regional and international level to plan our level of action right now and after the emergency."

Bishop Barahona considers Ida “the worst natural event of the year to strike El Salvador. It intensifies the social and economic problems with which we live. We pray to God for the life of our families, communities and countries."

To help people affected by Hurricane Ida, please donate online to Episcopal Relief & Development’s Hurricane Relief Fund at https://www.er-d.org/donate-select.php, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, Hurricane Relief Fund, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

As part of an ongoing effort to highlight the critical role of partnership in its work, Episcopal Relief & Development is launching two new web series, The Power of Partnerships and Friends of Episcopal Relief & Development.

The two series focus on the essential contributions of partners; The Power of Partnerships highlights the agency’s worldwide church and ecumenical collaborators and Friends of Episcopal Relief & Development features individual donors, special church campaigns and creative approaches employed by volunteers to engage in the agency’s work.

These monthly series, along with the weekly President’s Blog, offer an in-depth exploration of the values, strategies and relationships Episcopal Relief & Development combines in its work to heal a hurting world.

“Communication with those who support our work is very important to us,” said Lorenzo Martinez, Vice President of External Affairs of Episcopal Relief & Development. “These two new web series provide a means for us to share how partnership, in the field and at home, is key to transforming communities and alleviating suffering around the world.”

The first The Power of Partnerships focuses The Holy Land Institute of the Deaf, a program of our partner The Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem. The first Friends of Episcopal Relief & Development looks at the amazing efforts of Abby Eibin for NetsforLife®.

To support Episcopal Relief & Development, please make a donation online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

28 January 2009
Lorenzo Martinez
Vice President, External Affairs
Episcopal Relief & Development
815 Second Avenue
New York, NY 10017 USA

Dear Mr. Martinez,

Greetings from Jerusalem. I would like to take this opportunity to express my personal gratitude to Episcopal Relief & Development and all involved in the Middle East Emergency Appeal for Gaza. The generous emergency grant to our diocesan Al Ahli Arab Hospital Gaza Medical Emergency Fund will greatly assist us with the exceptionally heavy costs and health care burdens incurred the crisis as we assisted innocent civilians in urgent need of medical and nutritional care. The situation in Gaza remains as complex as it is difficult, especially for civilians. Our hospital continues to accept and treat a large influx of civilian patients, at this time free of charge. Fortunately, relief physicians are coming in from neighboring countries through the Egyptian Crossing Point at Raffa to assist the exhausted staff and there is now new plastic on the blown out windows to keep out the cold.

We are dependent on our concerned brothers and sisters to assist us with the financial responsibilities incurred in this continuing humanitarian crisis and we very much appreciate the Episcopal Relief & Development in this endeavor. We all represent the One Body in Christ, working together in this servanthood to alleviate the suffering of people in wherever there is need.

Thank you again for the support of Episcopal Relief & Development, and the donors who responded to your appeal.

In Christ,
+Suheil
The Rt. Rev'd Suheil S. Dawani
Anglican Bishop in Jerusalem
Bishop of the Episcopal/Anglican Diocese of Jerusalem
 

January 9, 2009

As the death toll rises in Gaza, Episcopal Relief & Development is sending emergency funds and remains in close contact with the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem. The diocese is currently finding shelter for 400 Gazans who have been displaced by the conflict and supporting the Al Ahli Arab Hospital in central Gaza City. 

The Rt. Rev. Suheil S. Dawani, says that there is an urgent need for food, fuel, medicine and supplies. “Food supplies are scant throughout the Gaza strip and maintaining patients’ nutritional needs at the hospital has been difficult, especially for the most vulnerable,” said the Rt. Rev. Dawani. The hospital workers are struggling to keep patients safe as the fighting continues. All of the hospital windows have all been blown out or shattered from missiles. Some members of the staff have lost family members during the crisis.

Due to the shutdown of the Gaza power plant, there is still no electricity in Gaza City. Shortage of food and clean water are critical problems. At least 800,000 people have no running water and all sanitation services are no longer functioning. Additionally, the Palestinian telephone company, Paltel, warns that all phone and internet service may be cut within the next few days due to lack of electricity and fuel.

“I ask you to join with me in prayer and by offering whatever financial support you can for our hospital and heroic staff of the Al Ahli Hospital and other such humanitarian endeavors,” said the Rt. Rev. Dawani.

Additional information and a bulletin insert is available online here. To help people impacted by the conflict in Gaza, please donate to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Middle East Fund” online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, “Middle East Fund” PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.
 

Episcopal Relief & Development is pleased to announce that the Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori, the Presiding Bishop and Primate of the Episcopal Church, has appointed the Rt. Rev. Robert J. O’Neill as the new Chair of its Board of Directors. Bishop O’Neill has been a board member since January 2007. He succeeds the Rt. Rev. Harry Brown Bainbridge III, who served as Chair since 2003.

“I am delighted that Rob O’Neill is the Chair of the Board of Directors for Episcopal Relief & Development,” says Presiding Bishop Jefferts Schori. “His strong leadership and abundant gifts will be a blessing not only to the Board of Directors, but to the many ministries of Episcopal Relief & Development and the millions of people they touch.”

The Rt. Rev. O’Neill is the 10th Bishop of the Diocese of Colorado. He has also served congregations in Massachusetts where he was instrumental in establishing the Barbara Harris Camp and Conference Center for the Diocese and was Vice President and Co-President of the Massachusetts Clergy Association. Bishop O’Neill’s international voluntary work includes serving as the Honorary Chair of the Three Bishop’s Fund for Haiti and President of El Hogar Ministries, Inc.

“We look forward to working with Bishop O’Neill as Episcopal Relief & Development works to heal a hurting world,” says Rob Radtke, President.

“I am honored to be connected to Episcopal Relief & Development–an organization that is truly doing God's work in the world and doing it with great effectiveness,” said Bishop O’Neill. “The commitment, vision and expertise of the leadership of Episcopal Relief & Development is simply outstanding, and I invite others to join in the life-giving work that is being done in partnership with our sisters and brothers around the world to heal the sick, feed the hungry, shelter the homeless and truly empower people to make their lives and communities better.”

To make a contribution to help people worldwide, please donate to Episcopal Relief & Development online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25. Its programs work towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Together with the worldwide Church and ecumenical partners, Episcopal Relief & Development strengthens communities today to meet tomorrow’s challenges. We rebuild after disasters and empower people by offering lasting solutions that fight poverty, hunger and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria.
 

Since the recent upsurge on December 27th, the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has left more than 550 people dead, and 2,500 injured. Episcopal Relief & Development’s partner, the Al Ahli Arab Hospital, reports devastating civilian casualties and a rising death toll in Gaza City.

During this time of crisis, Episcopal Relief & Development remains in close contact with its partner the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem. Episcopal Relief & Development has responded to an urgent appeal from the Diocese by sending initial emergency funds to the Al Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza.

“We continue to monitor the needs of the Diocese of Jerusalem and are preparing to send additional emergency funds. Please pray for the people of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem and the Al Ahli Arab Hospital as they risk their own lives to provide lifesaving emergency care to people injured in the ongoing conflict” said Rob Radtke, President of Episcopal Relief & development.

Al Ahli Arab Hospital, located at the heart of Gaza City, has treated more than 100 injured civilians since the beginning of the December attacks. The hospital continues to provide essential emergency health care to injured civilians. Al Ahli Arab Hospital has not turned anyone away despite increasingly dire conditions. The staff and volunteers at the hospital desperately need medicine and emergency supplies to continue their life saving work.

“We join Episcopalians around the world in a prayer for peace,” said Radtke. Read the Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori’s statement here: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/78703_104028_ENG_HTM.htm

A bulletin insert is available online at www.er-d.org/BulletinInsertsCT/. To help people impacted by the conflict in Gaza, please donate to Episcopal Relief & Development’s “Middle East Fund” online at www.er-d.org, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief & Development, “Middle East Fund” PO Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.

Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of the Episcopal Church of the United States. As an independent 501(c) (3) organization, Episcopal Relief & Development takes its mandate from Jesus’ words found in Mat