Disaster Response Information

"It is not a matter of IF... but WHEN!"

Storms of 2005 & 2006

• CCCF collected and distributed donations of cash and food to storm affected areas in central Florida, Mississippi and South Florida.
• $1.3 million dollars was given to provide assistance in Mississippi,
• $.5 million was utilized locally to provide 350 families with emergency family assistance, rent, utilities and school tuition.
• $200,000 in food and humanitarian relief was sent to ethnic migrant communities in south Florida. When the beans, rice and tortillas arrived, we were greeted with cries, "Este es nuestra alimento!" "This is OUR food!" In total we collected, sorted, packaged and distributed .5 million pound of emergency food.

Storms of 2007

The 2007 "Groundhog Day" tornadoes placed CCCF in the arena of early responders. Strong on the ground and knowledgeable about the most vulnerable populations, CCCF uniquely responded with personnel and resources to communities touched by disaster. As a member of The Florida Catholic Conference and Catholic Charities USA, CCCF had the reach and support beyond our diocesan boundaries and was honored with the Governor's Award for Disaster Preparation and Recovery in 2007.

This past year, CCCF took command and control responsibilities for an Emergency Communications Vehicle (ECV). The unit is self-contained/self-powered and has wireless and satellite, emergency response operations for use at a disaster site. The unit is a 7'x14' Wells Cargo dual axel Cargo Master, with a Trac Star satellite system and an Onan 12KW generator to power computer and communications equipment.

The northern counties of the Diocese of Orlando were hit very hard by the "Groundhog Day" tornadoes, February 2, 2007. CCCF, First Baptist Church of Paisley, and Northland Community Church have partnered together to bring relief to the victims in underserved areas. To date, 4 families have received new manufactured homes with 3 more on the way. Other Long-Term Recovery Operations are handled in conjunction with LASER (Lake and Sumter Emergency Recovery) County program.

To contribute to the Catholic Charities Disaster fund, please send your donation to:

Catholic Charities Disaster Fund
1771 N. Semoran Blvd.
Orlando, Fl 32807-3598

Click here to Make a Donation