Baltimore, June 29, 2015 – The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has provided $200,000 toward Lutheran World Relief's response to the recent massive earthquakes in Nepal. The ELCA's Lutheran Disaster Response provided the funds via the Action by Churches Together (ACT) Alliance for implementation by LWR. It is part of LWR's overall response to the disaster, currently totaling more than $2 million.
“This was a devastating disaster,” said the Rev. Rafael Malpica-Padilla, executive director for ELCA Global Mission. “The gift of $200,000 will support Lutheran World Relief in ensuring that people have adequate shelter through the monsoon season, as well as providing seeds for planting once the rains are finished. Through our partnership with Lutheran World Relief, the ELCA is making a difference in the lives of people affected by this disaster.”
On April 25 a 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck approximately 50 miles northwest of Kathmandu, according to the US Geological Survey (UCGS). Tremors were felt across northern India and neighboring Bangladesh and Pakistan. On May 12, a second earthquake struck with a magnitude of 7.3 causing further significant damage and further loss of life. Powerful aftershocks continued for hours, including 5.6 and 6.3 magnitude tremors. With the monsoon season beginning in June, providing emergency shelter to affected communities in remote and hard to reach areas is a priority.
With generous support from the ELCA and other partners, LWR has been working since the earthquake hit to provide temporary shelter; distribute emergency food rations; distribute Quilts, Kits, water filters and other relief items; and train other responding agencies on international quality and accountability standards, and has reached more than 20,000 people. LWR's most recent situation report is available at lwr.org/nepalearthquake
“This was a masssive disaster and recovery will take a long time,” said Daniel Speckhard, LWR's president and CEO. “We are profoundly grateful for the ELCA's investment in LWR's response efforts. This gift will make a significant difference in the lives of people who lost homes and livelihoods during the earthquakes. We thank our partner the ELCA for recognizing the need and providing resources to allow us to reach even more people.”
About Lutheran World Relief (LWR):
Lutheran World Relief works to improve the lives of smallholder farmers and people experiencing poverty in Africa, Asia and Latin America, both in times of emergencies and for the long term. With the financial support of US Lutherans and other donors, LWR strengthens communities through programs in agriculture, climate, and emergency support. LWR works with partners, supporters and technical assistance providers to achieve lasting results. For more information, visit lwr.org.
Lutheran World Relief is a ministry of U.S. Lutherans, serving communities living in poverty overseas.