Episcopal Relief and Development stands ready to provide emergency assistance to communities in Kenya affected by election-related civil unrest. The outcome of the presidential election held last Thursday is hotly contested and violent protests have erupted across the country between supporters of President Mwai Kibaki and opposition leader Raila Odinga.

The extent of the violence is severe. At least 300 people have been killed so far, including 35 who were burned to death after seeking shelter in a church.  Tens of thousands have fled their homes amid the unrest, forced to seek protection from uncontained armed mobs and looters. One thousand refugees have already crossed the border into Uganda and are being sheltered in two reception centers there.

Businesses across the country are closed and the Kenyan currency has already fallen 7% against the US Dollar. Flights and tours have been cancelled. The impact of the disorder in Kenya-the most industrialized country with the strongest economy in East Africa- is reverberating throughout the region. Many of the country’s neighbors depend on it for essential imports like fuel, cooking oil, salt and flour.

Episcopal Relief and Development has contacted several church partners across Kenya to assist in the provision of relief to individuals injured in the violence and to those whose property has been damaged and livelihoods affected. “Our prayers are with all Kenyans as they struggle for peace and stability during this difficult period,” says Abagail Nelson, Vice President for Programs at Episcopal Relief and Development.

To help people affected by the violence in Kenya, 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.