Polly Turner, Desert Southwest Disaster Coordinator
FEMA continues to respond to the cyclone damage in Saipan a year ago. The Western Jurisdiction through UMCOR has been asked to deploy as many ERTs as possible. Spring is an excellent time to be in Saipan. But, you must be Early Response Team trained with a current background check and current immunizations. Building experience is desired, especially if you have the ability to do ladder work since the focus will be on roofing.
Conditions may seem a bit primitive but
If you are thinking about this at all, please go to https://dscumc.org/disaster-response/western-jurisdiction-disaster-academy/ and register for the WJ Disaster Academy. This year we are emphasizing how a local congregation responds to a local crisis, such as the massive fires in Paradise, CA. The 2-day training is called, Connecting Neighbors.
Pastors and Laity
Please send several members of your community to take this particular training. As always, this will be an enriching time spiritually as well as the nuts and bolts of response to a disaster. Not all responders work on damaged houses: some work in disaster centers, do assessments of damage, and minister by listening to survivors. Please click here to download and distribute the letter invitation.
