Diocese helps flood victims
02/11/2008
After the heavy rainfall and flooding in September, the Diocese has formed a relief fund to help those affected. The fund will be managed by Partners in Community Action (PICA).
Over 1000 homes have been affected by flooding in Morpeth, and around 50 to 60 homes in Rothbury. There were also flood problems in Warkworth, Blanchland, in the Glendale area, at Etal and in the Till Valley. Areas were flooded in Northumberland that did not reach the headlines at all.
For some it will be many months before they can return to their homes, and for others it may well be over a year. There are many who were forced to live without insurance and who therefore have little to fall back on. In rural Northumberland the effect on farming is still being assessed, but there are signs of devastation and distress at the loss of livestock and uncertainties about future harvests.
Parish churches in the affected areas will be able to offer hardship grants in order to alleviate personal distress, and Churches themselves will be able to apply for small grants to support flood victims directly.
The Archdeacon of Linisfarne, the Ven. Peter Robinson, says: "Experience shows that the churches have an important role to play in pastoral care and support for many weeks, and sometimes months, after significant flooding. It is envisaged that the Flood Relief Appeal Fund 2008 will be required for at least a year."
Donations from Parishes and Individuals: Cheques payable to Newcastle Diocesan Board of Finance, with a covering note naming the Flood Relief Appeal 2008 and sent to: Gillian Green, NDBF, Church House,St John’s Terrace,North Shields, Tyne and Wear NE29 6HS.
Should individuals wish to make a contribution, and they are UK tax payers, then Gift Aid forms are available at the above address. All general inquiries should be made to the Archdeacon of Lindisfarne who may be contacted through the Archdeacons’ PA, Katherine Govier: email: k.govier@newcastle.anglican.org The Rural Affairs Adviser, the Revd. Dagmar Winter will also be dealing with inquiries, especially with those concerning the farming community: email: dagmar.winter@btinternet.com
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