Emergency Response

The United Church of Canada is concerned about the emergency situation now affecting the Central American countries of El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Guatemala. In El Salvador in particular, floods and landslides triggered by torrential rains have killed 25 people, affected 150,000, and forced 15,000 into temporary shelters, according to a report from ACT Alliance.

The El Salvadoran government has set up shelters and declared a state of emergency in five of the country’s 14 provinces. It has also released US$ 800,000 to address humanitarian needs.

The United Church has been in touch with partners in all three affected countries and is awaiting word on how we can best support them at this time of crisis. More information will be posted to this website as it is received.

The heavy rains were caused by Tropical Depression 12E, a phenomenon that has crossed the southern part of Mexico with a wind velocity of 60–70 kilometres per hour and an extended low pressure system.

What You Can Do

Pray: Please pray for the people of El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Guatemala who have been affected by the floods and landslides. United Church partners in countries affected by such disasters tell us they always appreciate our prayers when they are offered.

Donate: Donations in support of individuals and families in the three affected countries are welcome and will be distributed either through ACT Alliance or directly to United Church partners in these countries.

• Online via our secure donation page
• Phone 416-231-5931 or toll-free: 1-800-268-3781 and use your Visa or MasterCard.
• Send a cheque, money order, or Visa or MasterCard information with donation amount to:
  
  The United Church of Canada
  Philanthropy Unit—Emergency Response
  3250 Bloor St. West, Suite 300
  Toronto, ON M8X 2Y4
  
  Please be sure to note "Emergency Response— El Salvador, Nicaragua and Guatemala" on the face of your cheque.

For more information contact:

• Christie Neufeldt
  Program Coordinator, Latin American Partnerships
  The United Church of Canada
  Tel: 416-231-7680 ext. 4078
  Toll-free: 1-800-268-3781 ext. 4078
  E-mail: Christie Neufeldt
• Gary Kenny
  Program Coordinator, Emergency Response and International Development
  The United Church of Canada
  Tel: 416-231-5931 ext. 4051
  Toll-free: 1-800-268-3781 ext. 4051
  E-mail: Gary Kenny