Disaster Relief
In disaster situations, time is a precious commodity. Matthew 25: Ministries is constantly monitoring its readiness to meet the needs of a
sudden disaster. This includes maintaining the facilities and resources
needed, as well as being able to respond to the local community and
their desire to participate in the process of disaster recovery.
Sorting supplies is crucial. When aid products reach the devastated area, they need to be ready for immediate distribution. According to UNDRO (United Nations Disaster Relief Organization), "The
impulsive generosity of governments, organizations, and individuals
alike can cause as much chaos and confusion as the disaster itself." Matthew 25: Ministries ships only pre-sorted, pre-processed items that are culturally and seasonally appropriate.
Matthew 25: Ministries has responded to a wide variety of disasters including cyclones, tsunamis, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, windstorms, and droughts.
In 1998, Hurricane Mitch was our first large-scale attempt at disaster relief. Within days, we were able to have relief supplies on the ground both in Nicaragua and Honduras because we were well-established in these countries.
In 2004, Matthew 25 responded to the Indian Ocean tsunami. Shortly after, in 2005, Matthew 25 responded to Hurricane Katrina and the Pakistan earthquake. Most recently, in 2010, Matthew 25: Ministries responded to the earthquake in Haiti.
