As many of you are aware, Hurricane Idalia made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend Area near Keaton Beach just before 8 a.m. with maximum sustained winds of 125mph (Category 3).  The storm has flooded streets, downed trees, and power lines with widespread power outages.  Please stay safe and observe all curfews.  We know many are without power, are working to clear debris, and need assistance with tarping of homes, cleanup, and other essentials.  We are working to coordinate an effort to respond to churches, individuals, and families who need assistance.  

We are collaborating with other organizations and churches to set up a possible base of operations in the Live Oak and Perry areas to receive supplies and deploy volunteers to designated areas.  Please DO NOT self-deploy or respond on your own if you live outside of the affected areas.  Safety is our first priority.  

If you or your church would like to volunteer to help with distribution, response, or cleanup please register by clicking here, and we will reach out to you.

If you have previously served as an UMCOR ERT member, we would like to connect with you.  Please provide your information by clicking here and we will follow up with you regarding next steps.

If your church has sustained damage or your community needs assistance in any way please email me at lm.lambert321@gmail.com or call 352-942-9225 so that we can connect you with resources in your area. 

If you or your family sustained damage and need help with tarping, debris cleanup, muck out, or other assistance please register at Crisis Cleanup by calling 1-800-451-1954.

If you or your church would like to contribute to the response and recovery efforts, financial donations are appreciated and the best way to assist with changing needs.  Please donate by sending a check made payable to the Florida Conference of the Global Methodist Church and mark it Idalia. Checks can be mailed to Florida GMC, 11250 Old St. Augustine Road, Suite 15-114, Jacksonville, Florida 32257. If your church owns a shower trailer, tool trailer, or muck-out trailer that you would be willing to loan during the response please let us know. 

We understand that many communities will be collecting supplies and other items.  Please give as the Lord leads.  We appreciate your willingness to help during difficult times.

In gratitude for your assistance, your prayers, and your support!!