While first responders are hard at work in search and rescue operations in the wake of the second consecutive day of tornados striking Oklahoma and surrounding areas, Adventist Community Services Disaster Response (ACS DR) coordinators from across the United States have joined together to coordinate recovery response efforts. They are discussing plans for a collaborative effort so volunteers can be directed when and where they are most needed.
Best practices mandate a collaborative, planned response. Therefore, Richard W. Norman, chair, Oklahoma Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster and other officials are asking for financial donations only at this time. Any volunteers wishing to work in the recovery process should connect with their local conference ACS DR coordinator, giving dates of availability and disaster response skills/experience.
“Our hearts go out to those who have suffered such great loss in our neighboring state of Oklahoma,” said Elder Tom Lemon, president of the Mid-America Union Conference. “While we rejoice that the lives lost were fewer than at first feared, that is little consolation to those whose families have been so torn apart. Please join me in prayer and other ways of supporting our neighbors.”
To give a cash donation visit www.communityservices.org, click on Donate Funds Now; or mark a tithe envelope at church for Disaster; or mail a check to: ACS, 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904.
Visit the Adventist Community Services Disaster Response (ACS DR) Facebook page for the latest information:
https://www.facebook.com/ACSDisasterResponse.
What to donate and why after disaster strikes: http://money.howstuffworks.
