Natural Disaster Relief around the Globe
Severe weather and natural disasters wreak havoc on countries around the world every year. When earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, tornadoes, drought, and other natural disasters occur, IOCC is ready to respond with timely emergency aid. We know the first step toward recovery is often the most challenging, and IOCC is there to help with expertise and practical help. Discover how we are currently responding to natural disasters around the world.
Disaster Response in the US
Hurricane response is part of IOCC’s US program, which focuses on disaster preparedness, response, and recovery across the country.
In partnership with local Orthodox churches, members of national and state VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) coalitions, and ecumenical partners, we meet the immediate needs and support long-term recovery.
How We Help
Emotional and Spiritual Care
IOCC Frontliners are trained to support people facing trauma and working toward healing.
Emergency Action Teams
Led by trained leaders and supported by two IOCC emergency response vehicles, emergency volunteers help clean up homes after floods, hurricanes, and more.
Emergency Items
IOCC’s gifts-in-kind program can supply various items, depending on needs—from food and baby products to roof tarps, hygiene kits, and generators.
Clean-Up Buckets
Part of IOCC’s kit partnership, these buckets give people a way to start clearing water-damaged homes of muck and debris, the first step toward recovery.
Financial Assistance for Families
Depending on needs in a given situation, IOCC may provide families with funding to help them address their needs.
Long-Term Recovery
IOCC home-build teams dedicate a week to helping families rebuild their homes—meeting needs that remain months or even years after a disaster has passed.
Find the latest on IOCC’s disaster response work, including hurricane response, HERE.
How Can You Help?
- Pray for those affected by storms and for IOCC staff supporting people in tremendous need.
- Donate to IOCC’s US program, which focuses on emergency preparedness and response. This helps us act quickly and effectively as needs arise.
Please do not donate material goods unless it is something we have specifically requested, like clean-up buckets. - Assemble clean-up buckets. There’s always a need for clean-up buckets, so please consider putting some together and shipping them to our warehouse for distribution. Click here for instructions.
- Join an Action Team. Contact IOCC’s US Program team to learn more: volunteercoordinator@iocc.org or 667.331.9812
- Stay updated on IOCC’s response at iocc.org/latest and on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
Emergency Preparedness, Disaster Response, and Recovery
Get Your Family Ready for Any Emergency
Every second counts in an emergency. That’s why it’s crucial to have a game plan. Use the following resources to prepare today!
Create a Communication Plan
The first step to emergency preparedness is developing a communication plan. Family members may not be together when disaster strikes, so know in advance how you will contact each either. Parishes should also be ready to respond to natural disasters with a plan to inform parishioners and offer support.
Download our template today for help creating your own communication plan.
Make an Emergency Supply Kit
Be prepared to improvise and use only what you have on hand for at least three days. Think about: fresh water, food, clothing, clean air, medications, and your pets (if you have them). And don’t forget to make sure everyone knows exactly where the kit is being stored!
Download our checklist and start creating your kit today.
Stay Informed about What Might Happen
Each type of threat is different and needs specific preparation. Research the threats in your area and prepare yourself to react in these specific emergencies. Visit www.ready.gov to learn more.
Get Involved
After preparing for yourself and your family, take the next step and get involved in preparing your community and parish to help keep your hometown secure.
Want to do even more? Sign up to volunteer with IOCC after the next natural disaster. You can help us muck-out homes, rebuild homes, and more.
Stay Calm
Talk to your children openly about preparing for emergencies and staying calm during times of crisis. Include your children in all of your planning, and practice communication plans and practice home-escape drills. With simple preparations, your children can feel better about the unexpected.
Emergency Preparedness for Pet Owners
If you’re like millions of animal owners nationwide, your pet is an important member of your household. If you must evacuate, take your pets with you if possible. However, if you are going to a public shelter, it’s important to understand that animals may not be allowed inside. Plan in advance for shelter alternatives that will work for both you and your pets.