Episcopal Relief and Development is providing emergency assistance to people affected by severe floods in the western state of Maharashtra in India after heavy rains two weeks ago. Over 1,000 people have been killed and over 20 million others have been affected by the floods. Mumbai, the capital, has been particularly hard hit.

Rains have caused landslides, displacing thousands, and destroying at least 10,000 homes in the districts of Mumbai, Sindhudurg, Sangli, and Ratnagiri Raigad. Public buildings, health centers, schools, and other infrastructure have been affected by the floods which have also paralyzed rail, road, and air traffic.

On behalf of Episcopalians, Episcopal Relief and Development is providing emergency relief to people in Maharashta through a feeding program serving the most vulnerable populations including women and children. ERD is partnering with Action by Church Together International to respond to the emergency and supply families with critical aid such as cooked food, potable water, dry ration kits, clothing, blankets, and hygiene kits.

To make a contribution to help people immediately after disasters, donate to the Emergency Relief Fund at http://www.er-d.org/, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief and Development, Emergency Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.

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.