On Saturday, March 17, the Conference Consistory approved the Conference’s membership in the Greater Philadelphia Long Term Recovery Committee. The purpose of the GPLTRC is to help residents of Puerto Rico who’ve relocated to the Philadelphia area (whether temporarily or permanently) as a result of Hurricane Maria devastating the island in September 2017.
Many of these families and individuals face significant challenges, including but not limited to:
- adequate and affordable housing
- employment opportunities
- language translation
- help navigating the FEMA assistance process
- replacement of lost items
- emotional and spiritual support
At the most recent meeting interim leadership was elected: Nilda Ruiz, APM, Fiscal Sponsor; Carmen Febo, Taller Puertorriqueno, Interim Recorder and Julia Menzo, Liberty Lutheran, Interim Convener. Bylaws were adopted and working committees formed. PSEC Disaster Coordinator, Karl Jones, serves as an adviser to the Steering Committee.
The GPLTRC will establish and maintain a network of resources by coordinating the knowledge of various faith-based, non-profit, governmental, business, and other community-focused agencies and organizations. These services shall be provided regardless of race, creed, color, gender, sexual orientation, disability or religious preference.
You can read more about this important work at https://www.sepavoad.com/long-term-recovery.
There are several ways for you and/or your church to support this work:
- Financially – Send your contributions to the Conference and mark your gift “Philadelphia DASC” or online, indicating that it is a special gift.
- Offer your services as a translator (if you are a Spanish speaker)
- Adopt a family
(For more information on the above opportunities contact Karl Jones, kjones275@comcast.net)
- Serve as a Case Manager – Liberty Lutheran is hiring PT managers. Spanish language skills are very helpful. (contact Julia Menzo at jmenzo@liberylutheran.org)
