A request to the ICOC Family of Churches in the United States:

Families in crisis need our help. In the Bahamas, Hurricane Dorian has displaced families and devastated homes, and in an instant what many feared as only a possibility, has turned into a nightmare reality. Several disciples in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island have lost everything and need our help. Together we can bring hope to these dire circumstances.

Hurricane Dorian is the most powerful Atlantic hurricane to make landfall on record. With sustained 185 mph winds, up to three feet of rain, and a devastating storm surge of over 20 feet of water, Grand Bahama and Abacos Islands suffered catastrophic damage. Though we are grateful no ICOC members lost their lives, the death toll from Dorian is climbing as rescue efforts are still underway in the Bahamas. Dorian is still threatening the US coastline. The news cycles will come and go, but the damage from Dorian is going to be felt for many years to come.

We are glad to report that HOPE worldwide is connecting with those on the ground and already responding. In the few days since this storm made landfall, the HOPEww disaster response team in partnership with the South Florida Churches made an early needs assessment and is helping supply food, water, and shelter for those affected on Grand Bahama Island, including disciples and their neighbors. HOPEww is also actively preparing to mobilize volunteers to continue aid and implement more extensive clean-up and recovery efforts. Meanwhile, funding for this effort is the biggest current need.

Today, we are asking our family of churches in the United States to support the relief efforts of HOPE worldwide with a special collection on Sunday, September 8. The funds we collect will help provide important relief to families in crisis, but most of all, our brothers and sisters need to know that we are with them. Please give generously and continue to pray for these communities in need.

On behalf of HOPE worldwide and the ICOC Catalyst Team,
Thank you for your generosity and love!

Instructions for Church Administrators:

Checks can be made out to “HOPE worldwide” and sent to HOPE worldwide, 4231 Balboa Ave, #330, San Diego CA 92117. Be sure to note that these donations are for “Hurricane Dorian Disaster Response.” Members can also give online by clicking here: hopeww.org/DisasterResponse