The Presbyterian response to Hurricane Charley is beginning to take shape. Peace River Presbytery executive, Graham Hart, led a meeting this morning for the purpose of sharing information and organizing the presbytery's efforts. The meeting was well attended by member congregations, and by representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Florida Interfaiths Networking in Disaster.

Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Team (PDAT) members Jim Kirk, Larry Graham-Johnson, and George and Marian MacNeill provided advice and counsel to the presbytery.

Several people with experience in disaster response and volunteer coordination agreed to serve on a taskforce that will manage the response. Ministering to vulnerable populations and providing long-term spiritual and psychological care for children have already been identified as priorities.

Volunteer efforts are being directed to the First Presbyterian Church in Port Charlotte. Local workteams are busy tarping the roof, drying-out the church, and picking up debris so that worship services can be held this Sunday. The church is seeking to become a community center, where disaster survivors can find respite. In addition, the church hopes to expand its' daycare center to accommodate 250 children. At least 70 members of the congregation have health concerns. Teams of Stephen Ministers are being formed to ensure that their needs are being met.

Pray — Please keep all those in the storm's path and the caregivers in your thoughts and prayers

Stay Informed — Stay tuned for more information on ways to respond after the damage has been assessed.

Make a Clean-up Bucket — Supplies are are needed to allow families to clean their homes from debris left by the storm.

Give —Significant financial resources will be needed from the faith community to restore the hope and livelihoods of those most in need.