GUIDELINES FOR COMPASSIONATE RESPONSE FOR VICTIMS OF DISASTER
We are living in a time of earth’s history when major devastation will continue to increase throughout the world. Central California Conference, as a member of the world church of Seventh-day Adventists, understands our responsibility and privilege to be ready to help. In order to assist in providing the best help in an orderly manner, please consider the following ministry and financial guidelines.
A) Ministry Guidelines
When a disaster affects any area such as the typhoon in the Philippines or any other disaster, the following guidelines are suggested:
B) Financial Guidelines
Sending financial aid may be accomplished in two ways:
1. Donate through the local church to ADRA, restricting your donation to the specific international disaster. Follow ADRA’s systematic and efficient help to the disaster response on their Web site. www.adra.org
2. Local churches may receive donations for a specific disaster project following these guidelines:
a. Local churches may collect specific donations for a disaster: Disaster Relief, Philippines.
List separately the project(s) that the offering is intended for and the amount(s) for that project
b. As emergency/disasters occur and money is given, the Central California Conference will provide a specific account number for donations. See attached document.
c. These funds will be remitted to the Conference along with tithe and other conference remittances.
d. The Conference will send these funds directly to the GC for immediate transfer to the Union/Conference affected by the disaster. Churches cannot send funds directly overseas as this is in violation of IRS rules.
It is my hope that these guidelines will prove helpful as we work together to meet the needs of God's wounded and hurting people. In the spirit of Matthews 25:31-40 Jesus said, “When you have helped the least of these you have helped Me, therefore, come ye blessed of My Father and inherit the kingdom prepared for you”