Iowa Flood Report of June 16, 2008 - How You Can Respond

With over 4,000 homes, businesses, and churches flooded in and around Cedar Rapids, Iowa, we at Christian Emergency Network are asking that you respond in some way as a witness to the work of Jesus Christ.

As communities all across this nation are learning, a "Ready Church" for times of disaster is extremely valueable, as Homeland Security witnessed in previous disasters. A church that is prepared ahead of time knows how to help, knows what their resources and skills are in order to assist, and also knows how to work within their city' emergency management system, with FEMA, and other agencies. We as Christians must be learning how and when to function in response to crisis times in order that the compassion and message of Jesus Christ be evident in any response and recovery effort.

Cedar Rapids is one of our Mission America's "Prayer-Care-Share" cities, meaning that it has an existing group of motivated and committed churches and ministries who see the importance of using the prayer-care-share model to approach evangelisic opportunites. Disasters are certainly times when hearts are open to the gospel and much kingdom work is done amidst crisis events. 

Let's support Cedar Rapids, with the prayer that God will use their preparedness steps already taken to be most effective as the nation watches this city recover with our help, and God's direction.

Let us know of any stories and examples of God's work amidst Cedar Rapids...and other communities affected by the Midwest storms. Simply email us the details you have, and include your contact information or the contact info of the story's main subject, and we'll help get the word out of how God is functioning within this tragedy.

Here is one "report" from Francis Frangipane Ministries in the flooded area.

Report -- from Cedar Rapids Area  

June 16, 2008

Flood Relief Update

A number of you expressed interest (actually, heartfelt passion) to come and help with the cleanup here in Iowa. Thank you! Reading your emails has blessed us greatly.

Here's an update:

The waters are receding, although still at historic levels and will remain above flood stage probably for the next few days. Over 24,000 people were displaced, but some are slowly starting to return to their homes. This is a frustrating process for families as each home must be individually examined and judged safe by FEMA and insurance inspectors. Keep in mind that 4000+ homes were flooded, not to mention businesses and churches.

At the moment, however, we do have volunteers from surrounding cities and states. Adding more might be difficult to coordinate, not to mention house. However, if you want to volunteer, the need may be greater over the next week to ten days depending on when the first wave of volunteers return to their homes. If you want to help, please email Sherry Thornton at sjthornton@riveroflife.org and let her know your name, how many in your group (if you are traveling together), and your basic skills or training (although how you help may be unrelated to your talents).

You can also call 319-378-0337, which will connect you with various other agencies that we support who may have additional information about volunteering.

Financial Help

A continuing need is for finances so we can help people rebuild their lives. Most of the homes in the devastated neighborhoods had no flood insurance. Furniture, carpets, flooring, clothing, drywall, food, appliances - almost everything that experienced flooding now needs to be repaired or replaced. So, any financial gift you can offer is helpful.

To donate, please visit our Ministry Support page for more information on how to give online. Don't forget to stipulate that your contribution is for flood relief, which you can do after completing your credit card info on the last page.

Or, checks made payable to Advancing Church Ministries can be sent to 125 Robins Square Ct, Robins, IA 52328. Please note "flood relief" on the memo line.

From the bottom of my heart, on behalf of Cedar Rapids and eastern Iowa, thank you for standing with us.

May God bless you abundantly.

Francis Frangipane