Catholic Charities USA in emergency response to mid-South tornadoes

Social justice news
February 7, 2008

Catholic Charities USA in emergency response to mid-South tornadoes
Catholic Charities USA’s Disaster Response Office continues to assess and monitor damage left in the wake of devastating twisters that swept through the mid-South last night. At least 52 fatalities have been reported, and the death toll is expected to climb.

Catholic Charities USA will provide grants to help local Catholic Charities agencies in Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee meet the emergency needs of individuals impacted by the disaster. Funds will help Catholic Charities agencies in the dioceses of Little Rock, Owensboro, Jackson, Knoxville, Memphis and Nashville provide shelter, food and clothing to those most in need.

“These rare winter twisters caught everyone by surprise,” said Kim Burgo, senior director of disaster response for Catholic Charities USA. “We will continue to work closely with local Catholic Charities agencies across the region to meet basic needs and help rebuild lives.”

Catholic Charities USA, which has been commissioned by the U.S. Catholic Bishops to represent the Catholic community in times of domestic disaster, responds with emergency and long-term assistance as needed. Its Disaster Response Office connects the Church’s social service agencies and disaster planning offices across the nation.

Catholic Charities USA is collecting donations to support local agencies’ recovery efforts.

To contribute:
Call (800) 919-9338
Donate Online

Send checks to:
Catholic Charities USA
2008 Mid-South Tornadoes Relief Fund
PO Box 7068, Merrifield, VA 22116-7068

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