Press Releases

Caribbean Crisis Worsens

It was 1:00AM and Dr. Carlos Saenz, NCM Caribbean Coordinator, emailed a quick update on the hurricane destruction during the one hour the electricity is on. He knew he was one of the fortunate ones, as many parts of Haiti and the Dominican Republic not only have no electricity, they have no water, phone lines, food, or shelter. Jeanne, the latest hurricane that caused destruction in both countries, left more than 700 dead and over 1,000 still missing.

Gonaives, the third-largest city of Haiti with a population of 250,000, experienced mudslides and flooding that left no home undamaged. People are preparing mass graves, and basic necessities are scarce or non-existent. In the Dominican Republic, ten Nazarene churches are badly damaged and many church members are homeless. Several large bridges shattered as the raging flood waters swept by, and communication lines are down, so the full extent of the needs are still unknown.

The Spanish Field office and NCM Caribbean have requested urgent assistance for the immense needs in this storm-battered region. There are 95,000 Nazarenes in Haiti and almost 8,000 in the Dominican Republic. Most local resources were used for Hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Ivan, which swept through the region in recent weeks. Immediate and critical needs continue to be potable water, food, medicines, and clothing. Donations of Crisis Care Kits are also needed as recent hurricanes have completely depleted warehouse supplies.

“We cannot begin to imagine the heartache.” stated World Mission Director Dr. Louie Bustle. “The losses are staggering and the needs are great. Your prayers and any help will be deeply appreciated by our brothers and sisters in the Caribbean.”

Persons and churches wishing to make a donation for the hurricane relief effort can mark their checks “Hurricane Relief ACM1249.”

On-line using VISA or MasterCard
OR In the US, make checks payable to: General Treasurer

and mail to:
General Treasurer
6401 The Paseo
Kansas City, MO 64131

In 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

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
September 23, 2004