Episcopal Relief and Development is assisting people in Madagascar after Cyclone Gafilo struck in early March. The cyclone ripped across the northern part of the island killing 113 people and leaving 238,000 others homeless. Nearly 162 people are listed as missing, including 96 passengers on a ferry traveling from the nearby Comoros Islands which sank during the storm. The cyclone carried winds of up to 200 km/h and destroyed buildings, uprooted trees, and flooded towns.
"Cyclone Gafilo has indeed caused severe [damage] to all the infrastructures of my diocese," said the Rt. Rev. Roger F. H. Chung Po Chuen, Bishop of Antsiranana, Madagascar. "The international news has given a glimpse of the damage inflicted on the country during this time of Lent," said Bishop Chuen.
On behalf of the Episcopal Church, Episcopal Relief and Development has advanced emergency funds to the Diocese of Antsiranana to provide emergency food, clothing, and building materials for temporary shelters in Madagascar. People left homeless by the storm will receive bread, rice, corn, canned meats, vegetables, and other essential supplies.
To make a contribution and help people affected by the tragedy in Madagascar and respond immediately after disasters around the world, donate to the Disaster Relief Fund online at www.er-d.org or call (800) 334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, c/o Disaster Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.
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.
