(Reposting from the Baltimore Presbytery e-newsletter, with info about HPC’s specific response below.) As Hurricane Milton barrels towards Florida’s coast, Hurricane Helene’s widespread destruction still weighs heavily. Entire neighborhoods have been wiped out, and countless families are without shelter…and it’s about to get worse. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is responding through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA). Emergency grants have already been distributed, and National Response Team members are on the ground.

GIVE: Donations can be made online by scanning the above QR code with your mobile device (or following this link), or calling (800) 728-7228, ext. 5885. Additionally, you can download and distribute Hurricane Helene Appeal Bulletins. (color version) for your congregation. (Although they were created for Helene, the fund applies to Milton relief as well.) 

ACT: Assemble emergency cleanup buckets (visit pcusa.info/heart). Learn how you can help families affected by the Hurricanes, stay informed and like us on Facebook (facebook.com/PDAcares). 

PRAY: God of grace and compassion, May your Spirit move in this, your creation, bringing peace amid the turmoil and breathing hope into the places that feel broken. May your Spirit continue to be the quiet but constant reassurance that you are with your children and creation, even in the darkest moments, guiding us toward healing and restoration.

Harundale Presbyterian Church’s mission committee expresses its support for the work done through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. Prior to the hurricanes, as part of its planned annual giving, the mission committee had already voted to contribute to PDA. With the onset of the hurricanes, the committee increased its giving significantly. Multiple parishioners have asked how they might support hurricane relief: the committee suggests a direct contribution to PDA will be well-utilized.