All three of our denominations?the United Church of Christ, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the Church of the Brethren?have launched emergency appeals for Haiti after a major earthquake struck the country. Thousands of people are feared dead and countless have been left homeless. It is still too early to know the full extent of the damage, but Church World Service is expecting very high loss of life, widespread destruction of homes, schools and other buildings, and major damage to key water, electricity and road systems. One Great Hour of Sharing funds are being rushed to our Haitian partners to support their initial emergency response. As damage assessments are made and plans for relief, recovery and rehabilitation are developed, additional support will be shared. The need is massive.   

Here?s How You Can Help: 

Donate.  Please help the people of Haiti by sending gifts payable to Columbia United Christian Church marked for "Haiti Earthquake Relief."  All funds collected will be divided equally among our denominations and forwarded to Haiti.

Caring House Project. This charity organization, run by Frank McKinney, has been building homes in Haiti for the past 25 years. It is uniquely positioned for post earthquake recovery work. Visit Caring Project to learn more and to donate. Contact Debi Knapp for more info.

Pray.  Pray for the people of Haiti, their leaders, and emergency and humanitarian aid workers.   

Assemble Kits.  Gift of the Heart Hygiene Kits and School Kits are in large demand. The kits should be sent to the Brethren Service Center, P.O. Box 188, New Windsor, MD 21776. For instructions to make the kits, download this pdf or visit Church World Service.