The unfolding tragedy in New Orleans and other parts of the region has led all of us to ask, “What can we do?” Belmont students from affected areas are being contacted by staff and faculty to see how we can be of immediate support. Staff and faculty of Belmont are also opening their homes to the parents of Belmont students who need housing. Belmont University is opening its doors to students unable to attend their own university due to Hurricane Katrina. Those students will be able to take classes here and their tuition will be sent to their home institutions to enable them to rebuild and reopen. We often read of refugee crises in other parts of the world, but it is rare for our nation to face one. Here are several ways that together we can give, pray and go help. In the coming days, weeks and months, we will let you know of other ways we can serve together.
Give:
– Blood: Schedule an appointment with the Red Cross to donate blood: 1-800-448-3543.
– Money: You can donate by credit card by clicking the links below or calling the phone number listed. The Web sites and phone numbers can also be used to get the appropriate address to which you can mail a check.
* Adventist Community Services: 1-800-381-7171
* American Red Cross: 1-800-435-7669
* Catholic Charities, USA: 1-800-919-9338
* Christian Reformed World Relief Committee: 1-800-848-5818 / 1-800-552-7972
* Church World Service: 1-800-297-1516, ext. 222
* Lutheran Disaster Response: 1-800-638-3522
* Mennonite Disaster Service: 1-717-859-2210
* Nazarene Disaster Response: 1-888-256-5886
* Presbyterian Disaster Assistance: 1-800-872-328
* Salvation Army: 1-800-725-2769
* Southern Baptist Convention / Disaster Relief: 1-800-462-8657, ext. 6440
* United Methodist Committee on Relief: 1-800-554-8583
* Belmont Heights Baptist Church
Go:
The teams that are going to serve in the affected areas right now are comprised of those trained in disaster relief. There is no current need for us to send teams from Belmont. However, the time will come when we can send teams to help with relief work. We are looking at organizing teams to go over Fall Break (Oct. 13-16), Christmas Break and Spring Break (March 6-10). We are in touch with a variety of denominational agencies to ensure that our efforts are well-planned and fit with the short- and long-term needs of the people we will be serving.
