Disaster Response Ministry Continues to Serve Tornado Survivors

(Rev. Chris Ackerman) - AWFUMC’s Disaster Response & Recovery Ministry has been actively walking alongside survivors of the January 2023 tornado outbreak that impacted several counties across central Alabama. Thanks to multiple grantors, funders, and partners, AWFUMC has already opened 90 cases, approved funding for 31 and closed 25. These 90 opened cases represent 217 household members affected by the tornadoes, that now see the light at the end of the tunnel for their recovery. Many survivors were renters, some of the hardest to find support and funding for. Thanks to participants in area Long-Term Recovery Groups (LTRGs), this population has received help! 
 
The following entities have either awarded funding to survivors cases through LTRG Funding Committees or provided funding assistance directly to survivors: The United Ways of Selma and Dallas County, Black Belt Benefit Group, Lutheran Disaster Services, Gospel Tabernacle Church, River Region United Way, Grace Tabernacle Church, Autauga LTRG, Church of Christ, Presbytery of Sheppard’s & Lapsley, Cornerstone Presbyterian, Blue Jean Church, Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund, High Socks for Hope and Hale County LTRG. This collaborative front has committed over $184,700 in support towards the 31 survivor household’s un-met needs. 
 
AWFUMC has received direct grant funding from: The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) Weeks of Compassion Fund, and The United Church of Christ Global H.O.P.E. Fund. The team has also received support from area LTRG’s with start-up funds to support the launch of Disaster Case Management services. Thank you to Autauga, Elmore, Coosa, and Tallapoosa LTRGs!