Sent by: Paquita Bido Balbuena, Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (NCM) Coordinator in the Dominican Republic
The majority of the damages in the Dominican Republic are from the 1,116 houses affected by the wind, fallen trees and flooding and the 5,528 dislocated people according to the Center of Operations and Emergencies in the Dominican Republic. The hurricane is moving away slowly, but strong winds and rain remain. There are many places without electricity. Up to this moment the churches have not reported any damages.
As a church, we are joining forces with the state and are ready to respond to needs in the communities. We remain alert. The rain can still cause flooding and flooding can cause illnesses, especially skin and gastrointestinal. The population has been prudent and remained in their homes. We are maintaining a prayer chain of thanksgiving and prayers for God’s protection. We are asking that in his mercy he would allow us to escape without significant damage from this terrible storm. We are also praying for the countries of Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Cuba, which are also being affected by the storm. God is faithful and his word is real.
We are grateful to all of our brothers, sisters and friends who have prayed on our behalf. May God bless you.
How to help
Pray
Please pray for those facing the devastation left in the wake of the hurricane and those who have lost homes and loved ones. Pray for the recovery of the places that have been hit hard and the swift delivery of the supplies and care they need. Pray for those who are bracing for the storm, asking that they will be kept safe and that supplies will last. Pray for those who are most vulnerable, especially senior adults, individuals with disabilities, and people living in poverty. Pray for church leaders and churches responding to the needs around them. To send a prayer or note of encouragement, go to ncm.org/pray.
Give
Churches and individuals around the world can provide support through the Emergency Relief – Hurricane Response Fund. Donations will be used for immediate needs, such as water and food, as well as long-term recovery and rebuilding efforts.
