Companion Diocese
Companeros,
On Tuesday, October 11th Tropical Storm Jova hit Central America, unleashing torrential downpours for eight consecutive days. The scale of this disaster is unparalleled in recent history and El Salvador has been the most affected country in the region. Floodwaters have completely cut off access to multiple communities, as well as the international airport. While rains have lessened over the past day, another tropical depression appears to be headed for Central America. The death toll in Central America overall has risen to 80 with 38 of the lives lost in Salvadoran communities. The population is on edge as heavy rains continue and food supplies are scarce as much in the flood shelters as in many poor communities who make a subsistence living and have not been able to work.
The Very Rev. Bishop Barahona and many others have made the gravity of the situation very clear. This marks a sad and frustrating set back for all who are committed to a better El Salvador.
Our good friends at Foundation Cristosal are monitoring the situation and organizing to provide relief in their partner communities, as well as cooperating with the Anglican Episcopal Church of El Salvador, Episcopal Relief and Development, and other organizations to assist in the emergency response. Cristosal has composed a comprehensive Disaster Report and Plan which is availble on their website.
If you are interested in making a donation to aid the efforts of Foundation Cristosal, please send checks marked, "Disaster Relief" to:
Foundation Cristosal
9641 Carousel Center Drive
Syracuse, NY 13290
If you have any questions regarding the work of Foundation Cristosal, please contact Alexandra Howard at: