Sheffield Adventist help to flood victims

After a week which has seen torrential rain and severe flooding across the north of England, Sheffield Adventists are partnering with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency, ADRA-UK to provide basic necessities for the 300 families that Sheffield Council are working to re-house in the next two days.

 

Pastor Andrew Rashford-Hewitt told BUC News this morning that all three Adventist churches in the town are involved in providing parcels of blankets, dry food and other essentials for distribution in conjunction with the local council and Social Services. The church and individual members have also contributed to the mayor's appeal for funds for displaced persons.

 

With the forecast of more heavy rain over the weekend the Carter Knowle Adventist church is extending its normal Monday drop in-centre and is using church funds, donations and a £2,000 grant from ADRA-UK to provide sandwiches, soup and hot drinks for the families affected by the severe weather.

 

The BBC reports that about 900 people have been using emergency shelters in Sheffield. The UK Environment Agency has labelled the recent weather conditions as "phenomenal". The agency's flood expert, Phil Rothwell, stated on Tuesday that, "We've had a sixth of the annual rainfall in 12 hours."

 

With more heavy rain forecast for the weekend emergency services are preparing for more flooding. Adventist Community Services, together with ADRA-UK will continue to work with the council to provide help and support.