Disaster Response for Blackfeet United Methodist Parish

Multiple winter storms with large amounts of snow, high winds and subzero temperatures have impacted the state of Montana. According to Weather.com, "Some parts of the Montana Rockies have seen more than 40 feet of snow this season so far, while some towns are seeing record snow."

Because of this record snowfall, the Yellowstone Conference has initiated a disaster response plan for the communities around Blackfeet United Methodist Parish (BUMP) in northwestern Montana. Approximately 15,000 people are affected in the Blackfeet reservation. Mountain Sky Area Bishop Karen Oliveto has requested an emergency grant from the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR). Yellowstone Conference also has a Disaster Relief Fund and you can give online: www.yacumc.org/donate.

In addition to your donations and prayers, these are the current needs that BUMP is requesting:

• Firewood and supplies, plus chainsaws
• Water and food, including meats, potatoes, coffee, canned goods, baby food
• Personal hygiene products, such as diapers, wipes, feminine care
• Trucks, trailers, sleds and snowmobiles
• Fuel (diesel and gas)

Volunteers are also needed to assist BUMP as the church has become an emergency shelter. Pastor Dawn Maurer Skerritt, as Yellowstone Conference Disaster Response Coordinator, will organize volunteer teams for BUMP. If you would like to volunteer or provide supplies from the list above, please contact Dawn by email: pastordawn.cfumc@gmail.com or by phone: 406-260-5562. Thank you for your prayers and support!