Episcopal Relief and Development is standing by to provide emergency assistance to communities in the Pacific Northwest battered by powerful winter storms. High winds and heavy rains have destroyed large stretches of the region, leaving at least eight people dead, hundreds in shelters and tens of thousands without power.

The full extent of the destruction caused by the rain and winds –gusts that were equal to those of Category 1 hurricane winds- is not yet known.  Receding waters are leaving a wake of flooded homes, fallen trees and washed-out roads.

Episcopal Relief and Development is in touch with the Diocese of Olympia and the Diocese of Oregon, both of which are currently conducting needs assessments of their areas. Episcopal Relief and Development will be supporting their relief efforts as soon needs have been identified and prioritized.

To help people affected by the winter storms in the Pacific Northwest, please make a donation to ERD’s “Emergency Relief Fund” online 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” P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.