Press Releases
QUAKE ROCKS CITY, OPENS DOOR
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While they were sleeping in the early hours of December 26, 2003, an earthquake registering a magnitude 6.6 rocked the ancient city of Bam, Iran. The quake killed up to 35,000 people, of which 12,000 were children. Two thousand children lost both parents and an additional five thousand lost one parent. A spokesperson for the UN reported irreparable damage in two hospitals, all local health centers, and 95 out of 96 small clinics in Bam. With approximately 100,000 people now homeless, this quake is especially devastating as it is winter in Iran and temperatures often drop below freezing.
Iranian president Mohammad Khatami called the disaster a “national tragedy” and put out a plea for international assistance. Iran has waived visa requirements for incoming travelers and the US has relaxed prohibitions on aid to Iran. This has given compassionate ministries an unexpected opportunity to provide assistance there. NCM is in contact with partners Convoy of Hope, Humedica, World Relief, and Elam to participate together in relief efforts for Bam. Initial assessments indicate a high need for emergency relief, particularly medical supplies, hygiene items, toilets, and washing facilities. In view of this, NCM, Inc. is immediately sending 7,200 Crisis Care Kits in partnership with Food for the Hungry and We Are Family.
 NCM is actively looking for ways and means to provide emergency materials, financial assistance, and grief counseling as part of a compassionate response to this disaster while the door for ministry is still open. World Mission Director Louie Bustle stated, “People are usually more open to the message of hope in times of crisis. I urge Nazarenes everywhere to join us in our efforts to bring help and hope to the people of Iran during this unique window of opportunity.”
Persons and churches wishing to make a donation for the Iranian relief effort can mark their checks “Iranian Relief-ACM 1684.”
In the US, make checks payable to: General Treasurer
and mail to:
General Treasurer
6401 The Paseo
Kansas City, MO 64131
In the Canada, make checks payable to:
Church of the Nazarene
and mail to:
Church of the Nazarene Canada
20 Regan Road, Unit 9
Brampton, Ontario L7A 1C3
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All donations remitted through NCM and the General Treasurers Office will receive 10% Mission Special credit if the local church is identified.
NCM is the liaison between the pressing needs of the world and the individuals that are committed to making a difference. We understand that you may not be able to respond to every need. However, we want to keep you informed of the opportunities for your involvement in projects such as this. Every project deserves your individual consideration.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 8, 2004
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