Catholic Charities USA stands ready to address immediate community needs left by Hurricane Sandy

Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA), among the nation’s largest disaster response organizations, reported Oct. 31 that a major assessment of the impact and needs created by Hurricane Sandy is well underway, and that immediate service is being provided in partnership with other disaster organizations and state and local governments along the East coast.

Rev. Larry Snyder, President of CCUSA said, “We are the people on the ground before, during and long-after a disaster strikes, which puts us in a unique position to really understand a community’s needs and makes us an invaluable asset to first responders and our partners.”
 
CCUSA is receiving regular reports and updates from its agencies in New York, New Jersey, and all the way down the East coast—all of whom have been prepared for Sandy and stand ready in partnership with other responding agencies and local authorities to provide immediate relief and shelter to all impacted individuals and families.  They will continue to do so until the lives of these individuals return to normal.

Samuel Chambers, Senior Vice President of CCUSA’s Disaster Response Operations said, “Many of these areas were also severely impacted by Hurricane Irene one year ago. Emotional & spiritual care will play a large role in the response and recovery phases.”

Since Hurricane Katrina, Catholic Charities USA and its network of agencies across the country has helped thousands of families recover from disasters, first as an early responder to the immediate needs and later helping people rebuild their lives.  Relief and recovery services are provided at the local level by Catholic Charities agencies that provide critical services including emergency food, shelter, direct financial assistance, counseling, and support. These services are provided regardless of religion, race, creed, or socio-economic status.

To support the efforts and help restore desperately needed hope, please call 1-800-919-9338 or visit the website at www.catholiccharitiesusa.org to see how you can help.