Episcopal Relief and Development is providing emergency assistance to victims of flooding triggered by monsoons in Bangladesh. Since June, overflowing rivers have swamped two-thirds of the country, killing 766 people and affecting some 30 million others. Flooding has devastated areas throughout South Asia and left at least 2,142 people dead in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. The floods have destroyed much of Bangladesh’s rice crop and caused extensive damage to homes, roads, schools, and other structures.

“The situation in the capital city of Dhaka is the worst. About one-third of the city is under sewage-polluted floodwater,” said the Rt. Rev. Michael S. Baroi, Bishop of Dhaka. “Temporary shelters have been set up for flood victims.”

On behalf of the Episcopal Church, Episcopal Relief and Development is providing emergency assistance to the Church of Bangladesh to supply tin sheets and tools for roofing, blankets, mosquito nets, and clothing for homeless families. The Church of Bangladesh will stay in devastated communities and provide long-term rehabilitation for vulnerable families.

To assist people affected by the floods in Bangladesh, donate to the Emergency Relief Fund at www.er-d.org, or call (800) 334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, c/o Emergency Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.

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.