NEW YORK, Jan. 13 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A major earthquake hit Port-au-Prince, Haiti yesterday, causing widespread destruction. Millions of people are affected and thousands are feared dead. The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), the humanitarian relief agency for The United Methodist Church, has close ties with the Methodist Church in Haiti and is responding to the devastating earthquake with funding, material resources and prayers.

UMCOR executive, Melissa Crutchfield says, "We are working with our partners on the ground to provide immediate relief to the people in Haiti. UMCOR has worked in Haiti for many years. We anticipate that there will be years of rebuilding needed and are prepared to work with the people to help them through that process."

Working with partners, Action by Churches Together, Church World Service, Global Medic and the Methodist Church, UMCOR is channeling its resources to respond effectively to the people most in need.

In a statement to Global Ministries' staff, the General Secretary said, "Events such as these can challenge both our faith and sense of security.  As a church we know that the heart of our ministry is continuing and extending Jesus Christ's ministry of outreaching love."

How to Help

There will be a great need for volunteers to help rebuild once the initial crisis has settled. At this time, it is not safe or possible for volunteers to go to Haiti. In order to frame a response that is consistent with the churches' needs, people wishing to volunteer should contact their jurisdictional United Methodist Volunteers in Mission coordinator to determine when and how to appropriately respond.

Gifts to support UMCOR's Haiti relief efforts can be made online at Haiti Emergency, UMCOR Advance #418325. Checks can be placed in the offering plate at a local United Methodist church or mailed to UMCOR, PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087 with "Advance #418325" in the memo line. 100% of gifts will go to help the people of Haiti.

UMCOR Sager Brown is coordinating a shipment of health kits to provide individuals with basic necessities. Instructions for assembling and shipping health kits are available at http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umcor/getconnected/supplies/health-kit/.

SOURCE United Methodist Communications

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