NEW YORK, Oct. 28, 2005?Hurricane Wilma is the latest in a string of major hurricanes to strike the US. Its strong winds tore a path across South Florida, blowing off roofs, shattering windows, and tearing down trees. In this active storm season, responders feel weary and, in some cases, have been slow to be on the scene following this latest hurricane.

Not so with United Methodists. Because of the United Methodist Committee on Relief?s trained network of disaster responders, and the Florida Annual Conference?s experienced staff, Wilma survivors are getting the help they need.

Seeking Out the Most Vulnerable

UMCOR disaster response consultant, Christy Smith, toured damage along Florida?s east coast to find United Methodists responding to the needs of their community, seeking out those left especially vulnerable by Hurricane Wilma. After her assessment of the damage and witnessing all United Methodists are doing to help Wilma survivors ? from shelters to food to pastoral care, Ms. Smith commented, 'Again and again I am overwhelmed and awed by the dignity of those who endured so much.'

United Methodists in the Tamarack area of Florida are going door-to-door in 19 buildings housing seniors to ensure they have food and other essentials. Rader United Methodist Church in Miami has opened its doors to become a distribution center in spite of no electricity and a downed tree on the building. And there are others, providing food and shelter and seeking out migrant workers and low-income families who might be otherwise overlooked.

Long before a disaster strikes, UMCOR works to prepare annual conference personnel to respond. Through trainings in early response, spiritual and emotional care, and other topics UMCOR?s disaster response network is equipped to respond appropriately to their community?s needs.