Episcopal Relief and Development
Living Our Faith for a Better World.
Working in partnership with the worldwide Church, ecumenical agencies and local organizations, Episcopal Relief & Development saves lives and strengthens communities around the world.
Episcopal Relief & Development programs focus on the following areas:
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Alleviating Hunger and Improving Food Supply
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Creating Economic Opportunities and Strengthening Communities
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Promoting Health and Fighting Disease
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Responding to Disasters and Rebuilding Communities
An International Agency at Work in Cedar Rapids.
In response to the 2008 flooding experience in Cedar Rapids and throughout Iowa, Episcopal Relief & Development stepped up with practical and financial support. ERD continues to fund programs at work in rebuilding our communities.
Spurred by the floods in Cedar Rapids, the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, and a long history of aiding recovery after natural disasters in the US and neighboring regions, conversations developed on the need to create a nationwide network of Episcopal congregations and missions for connecting with resources following a natural disaster. As a result, ERD has formed Partners in Reponse and the Ready to Serve volunteer database.
Partners in Response is a small group of advisors who are able to advise and consult with area leaders following a natural disaster. Christ Church parishioner Lisa Butler, who was serving as Parish Life Coordinator at the time of the '08 flood, serves on this national advisory board to contribute especially in the area of administrative and congregational planning and communications during natural disaster recovery.
The Ready to Serve volunteer database is a simple repository of people resources. If your particular skill was needed, would you be willing to be asked to use it? This is not a commitment form for mission work. This is a tool for us to find and recognize the strengths, talents and resources of the members of the Episcopal Church. Check it out here.
