WHEELING W.Va. (WVDN) — Recovery efforts continue across the Mountain State after the severe flooding that occurred earlier this month. Several counties have experienced generational flooding resulting in loss of life, property, and livelihood. More than ten counties in our state remain under a State of Emergency. With many roads just being re-opened, the scope of the devastation is becoming more visible.
Most Rev. Mark Brennan, Bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, has approved a special collection to be held the weekends of February 22-23 and March 1-2 in all parishes and missions throughout the diocese to support recovery efforts related to the series of disasters that have occurred. Checks should be made out to your respective parish with “Disaster Relief” on the memo line. Donations can also be made on the diocesan website at https://dwc.org/disaster-relief/.
All of the money collected will remain in West Virginia and will be managed by Catholic Charities West Virginia (CCWVa). Money will be allocated along a fourtier priority list as follows:
1. Parishes in and around the affected area who directly assist families will receive funds to give aid to those in need.
2. CCWVa Regional staff will receive funding for direct, short-term recovery assistance to victims.
3. Partner agencies who work with CCWVa to administer relief to West Virginia residents affected by the flooding.
4. Funds will be given to CCWVa for long-term humanitarian and recovery efforts. This fund assist families long after other organizations have moved out help families and individuals in the rebuilding process to restore safe, secure, and sanitary living conditions.
To help jumpstart the collection and speed funding to assist West Virginia families, Bishop Brennan, has authorized a challenge grant in the amount of $50,000 through the West Virginia Catholic Foundation. These funds will be immediately distributed for relief efforts in our state. Bishop Mark hopes the donation will spur others to give generously to help our neighbors in need.
Please remember in prayer all those whose lives have been changed in the wake of these disasters. Let us come together now to support our brothers and sisters in Christ who have been injured and lost their homes, cars, employment, and access to food and water.
