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SC Christian Action Council Newsletter Christian Action--Katrina Evacuees
September 2005

Greetings.

As Katrina survivors and evacuees arrive in South Carolina, our state’s religiously diverse faith community is working side-by-side with helping agencies to respond in practical and meaningful ways. Information about the number and needs of those being evacuated currently is unreliable. Therefore, preparation and flexibility are our overarching goals. In the Midlands area, a Reception Center has been established which houses Red Cross and multiple government agencies. Effort has been made to provide for all needs here. Survivors may come to this location several times as they begin to reclaim and rebuild their lives. The SC Christian Action Council is working with the Columbia Community Relations Council to coordinate the efforts of congregations and clergy.

In this issue:
  • Who is the SC Christian Action Council?
  • Clergy and Congregation Information for Helping with Katrina Evacuees

    • Clergy and Congregation Information for Helping with Katrina Evacuees

    All persons wishing to VOLUNTEER at the Reception Center (Corner of Pickens and Blossom, across from Maxie Gregg Park) are to CALL FIRST, (803) 576-7201. This allows volunteers to be used to best meet needs. Volunteers are needed for a variety of activities. If you call once and are not contacted later, please call again. Volunteer’s children should not be brought to the Reception Center.

    ALL CLOTHING is to be taken to Cooperative Ministry, 1928 Taylor St., (803) 799-3853.

    Snack items are needed at the Reception Center; again, please call first, (803) 576-7201.

    GROCERIES AND STAPLE FOODS are to be taken to Harvest Hope Food Bank, 2220 Shop Rd., (803) 254-4432.

    Evacuees will be housed for up to 30 days in hotels; 800 rooms are under-contract for this purpose. Congregations or individuals interested in providing HOUSING are to call Preston Winkler, Columbia Community Relations Council, (803) 733-1130.

    PASTORAL CARE is being offered by area clergy. This is a broad and multi-faith effort. If you are available to provide Pastoral Care at the Reception Center through this weekend and into the coming weeks, please contact Brenda Kneece (bkneece@sccouncil.net; tele (803) 786-7115; or fax: (803) 786-7115). Please give be sure to give your name, title, denomination, best contact number, and days/times available so that multiple contacts are not necessary. Someone will contact you as Clergy are needed.

    Volunteers are needed at Cooperative Ministry, Harvest Hope, and SC Christian Action Council. Please call the specific agency, if you can assist with their needs at this time. Other faith community activities will be developed as needs are determined. Please keep in touch.


    Who is the SC Christian Action Council?
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    As the only statewide ecumenical agency in South Carolina, the Council represents a partnership of 16 denominations and 21 regional judicatories, including 4,500 congregations. The Council serves as a catalyst for:

    1. Social justice through public policy advocacy
    2. Christian Unity and inter-religious dialogue through relationships, collaborations and events
    3. Racial and cultural healing by building bridges of trust and understanding

    Our current work areas include AIDS care team ministry, environmental stewardship, Christian unity and inter-religious dialogue, faith and health, racial reconciliation, children and families, and public policy advocacy.



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