Bishop John is asking people in the
People affected by the floods will be able to apply to the Diocese of Oxford Flood Appeal via the local clergy – whether or not they are regular churchgoers.
Bishop John says: “The church is in the heart of every community and dedicated to its well-being. The local clergy are in the ideal position to help identify needs on the ground.
“I am aware that people need a lot of support to get their lives together again – we know, for example, that many families do not have household insurance, or they need to buy new white goods in a hurry. I’m hoping that through this fund we will be able to help in a practical way as people begin to rebuild their lives.”
To give to the Diocese of Oxford Flood Appeal, please give online or send cheques made payable to ODBF Administered Funds to Diocese of Oxford Flood Appeal, Church House, North Hinksey Lane, Oxford OX2 0NB.
RED CROSS
Bishop John is also encouraging people to give to the national Red Cross Flood Appeal which was launched earlier this week. Red Cross funds will be targeted towards the most vulnerable people, including isolated elderly people, families on low incomes and people with disabilities, working through local authorities and local charities.
Bishop John visited the Red Cross regional headquarters in Abingdon today to express his support.
He says: “I am tremendously impressed by the good work the Red Cross has done across the
“I saw the Red Cross team in action at the Kassam Stadium earlier this week. Highly trained staff and volunteers are working to full capacity and we owe them a debt of gratitude. I am delighted to lend my full support to this appeal.”
To give to the Red Cross appeal, please phone 0845 054 7200 or see www.redcross.org.uk/floodsappeal.
The Red Cross is also looking for more volunteers.
"In responding to the needs of those affected by the flooding, the British Red Cross has drawn on the services and skills of volunteers who provide community services throughout the county," says Madeleine Hammond, Volunteering Adviser for the Red Cross in the Thames Valley."
Drivers, home from hospital visitors, fire and emergency support volunteers and first aiders were all in great demand. Wheelchairs, walking and toileting aids were vital and the Red Cross’s medical equipment loan service was also fully active.
"All these services need more volunteers."
The Red Cross would love to hear from people who could help. To find out more, phone 01235 552660 or email oxon@redcross.org.uk or visit www.redcross.org.uk.
An Open Day will be held at the Red Cross Oxfordshire office in Colwell Drive
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HELP FOR FARMERS
Last month, the Archbishop of York encouraged churches to respond to an appeal for funds to help farmers affected by the flooding.
Funds are needed by the three Farming Help organisations – ARC Addington Fund, and RABI for direct grants to farmers affected, and the FCN who provide the Helpline and are administering the application process, providing pastoral and practical support on the ground.
The attached press release gives details; information about the organisations to which donations can be sent can be found on the Farming Help web site.
Perhaps you may like to consider a special collection as part of your celebration of LAMMAS this year?
The Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust (LWPT) has money available to help support local preachers and their dependants, worship leaders of any denomination, youth leaders, churchwardens, lay readers and so on who have been affected by the flooding. Please contact
