In times of crisis, we often hear from Father Andrew that Episcopal Relief and Development is involved with the response, no matter the location or scale. The COVID-19 pandemic is no different, and ERD continues to be a reliable and trustworthy way to contribute to relief efforts due to their well-developed local and international partnerships:

Instead of imposing “one-size-fits-all” solutions, we support unique, local long-term initiatives that address the effects of poverty, disaster and disease. Through our Asset-Based Community Development methodology, we work with communities to recognize their existing skills, gifts and resources. Thus, we empower and work alongside local leaders and residents who are best equipped to identify and address the most pressing needs.

Read more on their Mission and Programs

Here is a brief excerpt from their most recent press release on the response to COVID-19. The full press release, and more information on how you can help, can be found on their website: https://www.episcopalrelief.org/

Episcopal Relief & Development Continues to Partner with Local Organizations Worldwide in Response to COVID-19

Press Release 

May 14, 2020

Episcopal Relief & Development continues to partner with local organizations and dioceses around the world to provide technical and financial aid in response to the novel coronavirus. The organization is in close contact with partners in 44 countries, including the United States, to assist as they adapt existing programs and to respond to specific needs created by the crisis.

In response to the physical distancing guidelines recommended by local health authorities, Episcopal Relief & Development and local partners are adapting programs to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.  For example, the Anglican Development Services of Nyanza (ADS-Nyanza) in southeastern Kenya is working with the Kenya Government Ministry of Health, Episcopal Relief & Development and other organizations on the prevention, control and home management of COVID-19. ADS-Nyanza is equipping their Community Health Volunteers and Early Childhood Promoters with personal protective equipment (PPE) and providing handwashing facilities in strategic social places as well as supporting contact tracing in several counties.

Read more on ERD’s response to COVID-19 here.

In uncertain and challenging times, supporting Episcopal Relief and Development’s efforts at home and around the world is a concrete way to take action and express our faith.

Episcopal Relief & Development’s Mandate

Our mandate comes from Jesus’ words found in Matthew 25:

Lord, when was it that 

We saw you hungry and gave you food?
We saw you thirsty and gave you something to drink?
We saw you a stranger and welcomed you?
We saw you sick and took care of you?
We saw you in prison and visited you?

‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’

—Matthew 25: 37-40 (NRSV)