THE Bishop of Worcester, Dr John Inge, has launched an appeal for the Diocese of Peru, as they seek to provide relief and emergency aid to devastated local communities affected by severe flooding following the heavy rains brought about by El Niño.
The Diocese of Worcester has a partnership with the Diocese of Peru and Bishop John recently returned from visiting the Diocese to celebrate the 25th anniversary of this link.
Writing to all the Anglican Churches across Worcestershire and Dudley, Bishop John said: “A number of people around the Diocese have been asking if we can do something to help. I am very pleased our partner diocese has developed a clear action plan to offer practical help on the ground, and have asked for our support, so that we know any gifts we send will be put to good and practical use in helping the church serve the needs of those who have been so badly affected.”
The appeal follows a request from the Diocese of Peru. Bishop Jorge Luis Aguilar writes: “As a diocese we are seeking to respond in the best way that we can. We began with simple food, water and clothes donations. We have now opened an account for national donations and have identified our first community of around 75 people that has been severely affected and in which we can help with temporary shelter, food and water, basic sanitation and more.”
The Diocese is hoping to raise £8,000 to support this group in Peru. If more is raised then the support will be widened. This appeal will close at the end of April, so that money can be sent to Peru while there is still an urgent need for it.
A dedicated BTMyDonate page has been set up to enable online donations: Worcester Peru Flood Appeal (https://mydonate.bt.com/events/peruflood/437347). Or cheques (made payable to Worcester Diocesan Board of Finance Ltd) can be sent to Bishop of Worcester’s Peru Appeal, The Old Palace, Deansway, Worcester WR1 2JE.
