Episcopal Relief and Development is helping victims in Tennessee following a recent wave of tornadoes across 13 states on November 10. Thirty-six people were killed and dozens were injured after 70 tornadoes struck 13 states, heavily damaging Tennessee, Ohio, Alabama, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky. President George W. Bush has declared Tennessee a disaster area. Severe damage occurred in Morgan and Cumberland counties where 17 people were killed. A mile-wide tornado cut through the northeastern towns of Mossy Grove and Joyner. Many homes and businesses were destroyed and other structures were heavily damaged.

"Many of the people in Mossy Grove lived in trailers or small, inexpensive homes, and their belongings are scattered everywhere," says Sharon Pinner, coordinator of the St. Andrews Episcopal Relief Fund. "We are going into the hardest hit communities where people have nothing," states Pinner.

Episcopal Relief and Development has awarded a $25,000 emergency grant to the Diocese of East Tennessee to provide food, water, and basic necessities for those directly affected by this tragedy. "Before we were able to reach out, Episcopal Relief and Development had already called asking what we needed," says Pinner. "I'm really happy ERD is able to help people in dire need."