On November 22, a 5-alarm fire occurred at the Austin Manor Apartments on Rising Sun Ave. in Northeast Philadelphia. The American Red Cross met initial needs, but significant material needs remained for 35 families, about 80 individuals total. SEPA VOAD (Southeastern Pennsylvania Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) was contacted to help meet those needs, and it was decided to match families with local congregations that were able to help. As a result of that strategy, Lutheran Disaster Response, an active member of SEPA VOAD, reached out to several local Lutheran congregations located in the vicinity of the fire. Prince of Peace, St. James, St. Johns, St. Timothy, Calvary, and Zion Lutheran Churches have taken on the task of assisting families in need as a result of this fire, and have been collecting clothing, furniture and other household items. A number of other community congregations have partnered in this response as well. Many thanks to these congregations for helping these families at an hour of great need during the holiday season!

Oktoberfest 2009 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Glenside was a great event. Thanks to St. Paul’s, Living Word Roslyn, and all who supported and attended the event on September 26th! Over $6,000 was raised to support response and preparedness efforts of Lutheran Disaster Response in Southeast PA.

Following flooding in August of 2009, LDR cooperated with other VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) partners to meet the needs of families in southern Montgomery County. Thanks especially to Living Word Church in Roslyn, Upper Dublin Lutheran Church, and Trinity Lansdale, for their help in meeting needs.