CHICAGO (ELCA) -- Members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) have contributed more than $2.5 million to support relief efforts in southern Asia, after a Dec. 26 tsunami claimed more than 200,000 lives in several coastal countries of the Indian Ocean.
"Our church has responded abundantly to the tsunami disaster, and I'm grateful for all the gifts from throughout our church family, offered on behalf of those who seek to rebuild their lives and communities in south Asia," said Kathryn Sime, director of the ELCA World Hunger and Disaster Appeal.
Coordinated by the ELCA Division for Global Mission, International Disaster Response often channels its funds through international church organizations and relief agencies, and Lutheran churches in which the ELCA has established a formal or "companion" relationship. Funds purchase food, medicine, drinking water, emergency shelter and other materials for survivors of disasters.
Thrivent Life Insurance Company, Minneapolis, contributed $765,000 to the ELCA International Disaster Response for tsunami relief efforts.
"This generous gift from Thrivent Life Insurance will bring hope and healing to children, families and communities who now face the challenges of daily life after the tsunami. We are grateful for Thrivent Life Insurance's partnership in our church's disaster ministries," Sime said.
The Thrivent gift "will be used exclusively" for tsunami relief, Deressa said. "The funds will enable us to accompany our partners who are implementing relief programs and help in rebuilding communities, building shelters and housing, and providing psychological-social counseling for people and children affected by trauma," she said.
"I thank members of the ELCA who have given generously and continue to support International Disaster Response," Deressa said.
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INTERNATIONAL DISASTERS:
Editors: When listing organizations receiving funds for aid to survivors of major disasters outside the United States, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, please include:
ELCA International Disaster Response, PO Box 71764 Chicago, IL 60694-1764, 1-800-638-3522, or at http://www.elca.org/disaster/idrgive on the Internet.
For information contact:
John Brooks, Director (773) 380-2958 or news@elca.org
http://www.elca.org/news
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About the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America:
The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with 2.8 million members in more than 8,500 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of "God's work. Our hands.," the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA's roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther.
For information contact:
Candice Hill Buchbinder
Public Relations Manager
Candice.HillBuchbinder@ELCA.org
