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Episcopal Relief & Development Strengthens Disaster Response Initiatives

On May 27, 2026, Episcopal Relief & Development announced a significant milestone in its ongoing mission to aid communities impacted by disasters. The organization received a substantial grant of $1 million over three years from Lilly Endowment Inc., a private foundation focused on community development, education, and religion. This funding comes through Lilly's Hope After the Storm initiative, which is designed to bolster faith-based disaster relief organizations across the United States.

The grant aims not only to enhance the operational capabilities of Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Program but also to address the increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters. Eric Weaver, the Director of Global Disaster Response Resilience, emphasized the importance of this support, stating, “This grant is a true blessing. Investing in a learning management system and developing disaster response toolkits will enable us to provide vital training and resources to thousands of partners and local leaders.”

Advancements in Training and Resources

One of the significant elements of the funding will go towards establishing a centralized learning management system. This platform will facilitate online training and continuing education for partners involved in disaster relief efforts. Moreover, access to essential technical resources such as disaster planning and management toolkits will be made available at all times, ensuring readiness and a rapid response to emerging challenges.

Additionally, the grant will help enhance networking opportunities by connecting an expanding network of Episcopal churches and related institutions. Such collaborations are vital for communities aiming to share knowledge, resources, and best practices.

The Role of Faith-Based Organizations

This grant is part of a broader initiative that includes a series of 30 grants through Hope After the Storm. The aim is to strengthen entities that play a central role in delivering critical support during disasters. Faith-based organizations often serve as essential platforms through which community members can engage in volunteerism and donate resources to those in urgent need. By expanding their capabilities, Episcopal Relief & Development is poised to impact the lives of individuals and families struggling with the aftermath of disasters more effectively.

About Lilly Endowment

Established in 1937, Lilly Endowment Inc. is rooted in the legacy of J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons. While it continues to manage funds from its original gifts, the Endowment operates independently, supporting initiatives that promote community development, education, and religious engagement across the U.S. Their focus on empowering faith-based organizations highlights their commitment to mobilizing community resources for those in distress.

About Episcopal Relief & Development

For more than 85 years, Episcopal Relief & Development has collaborated with a vast network of partners to make lasting improvements in communities affected by injustice, poverty, and disasters. Each year, the organization reaches over 3 million individuals, addressing critical issues such as child welfare, violence against women and girls, and resilience to climate change. In response to disasters, Episcopal Relief & Development employs effective strategies that leverage successful initiatives to develop impactful and sustainable solutions.

With this new grant, Episcopal Relief & Development is not only enhancing its ability to respond to disasters but also building a stronger foundation for community resilience and education in disaster management.

For more information, visit Episcopal Relief & Development’s website.