IOCC Responds To Victims Of Oklahoma Tornadoes

http://a.abcnews.com/

May 2015

Baltimore, MD (IOCC) — A cluster of more than a dozen tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma City on Wednesday, destroying dozens of homes and seriously injuring 12 people. Heavy winds and rain have also battered Kansas, Nebraska, and Texas as well, causing more injuries, extensive property damage, and massive flooding as rivers and creeks rise over their banks.

As survivors sift through the remains of homes and businesses damaged in this most recent bout of severe weather, IOCC is in contact with the Orthodox parishes in the affected area and is monitoring the situation with its ecumenical partners in order to determine the best course of action. “Remembering the devastation caused by tornadoes in Oklahoma just two years ago, we join our thoughts and prayers with those who have suffered loss through this latest disaster,” said Daniel Christopulos, IOCC’s US Country Representative. “We are also reminded that the severe weather season has started in the mid-section of our country and that hurricane season will soon be upon us.” Prepare a disaster plan for you and your family by following the steps provided on the IOCC website at iocc.org/emergency.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
Help rebuild. IOCC is recruiting volunteers for one week of active service from June 15-20 or July 13-18 to help rebuild homes in Oklahoma damaged or destroyed by devastating storms like the ones they’ve just experienced. You do not need to be skilled – just energetic! Activities vary depending on location and construction schedules, but can include siding, roofing, framing, landscaping, painting and support. For more details or to register, please visit iocc.org/actionteams.

Assemble emergency kits. IOCC also anticipates the need for Emergency Clean-Up Buckets which are in low supply. For directions on how to assemble Emergency Clean-Up Buckets, please visit iocc.org/kits.

Make a donation. You can also help the victims of disasters in the United States, like the Oklahoma tornadoes, by making a financial gift to the United States Emergency Response Fund, which will provide immediate relief as well as long-term support through the provision of emergency aid, recovery assistance and other support to help those in need. To make a gift, please visit iocc.org, call toll free at 1-877-803-IOCC (4622), or mail a check or money order payable to IOCC, P.O. Box 17398, Baltimore, Md. 21297-0429.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHARITIES
IOCC is the official humanitarian aid agency of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America. Since its inception in 1992, IOCC has delivered $534 million in relief and development programs to families and communities in more than 50 countries. IOCC is a member of the ACT Alliance, a global coalition of churches and agencies engaged in development, humanitarian assistance and advocacy. To learn more about IOCC, please visit our website at iocc.org.

Media contact: Rada K. Tierney, IOCC Media Relations, 443-823-3489, rtierney@iocc.org

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