On Saturday, September 20, a team of 13 volunteers from the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference deployed to the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference to assist communities still recovering from Hurricane Ida—four years after the devastating storm. The team, led by Rev. Cricket Denton, GNJ’s Conference Disaster Response Coordinator, included seven trained Early Response Team (ERT) members along with additional volunteers committed to bringing compassion and hope to neighbors in need.
The group spent the day working on homes that had been severely impacted by flooding. They cleared out debris, made repairs, and helped residents continue the long journey of recovery. While the physical work was important, the ministry of presence was just as vital. Volunteers listened, prayed, and stood alongside survivors who continue to feel the lingering effects of the storm years later.
“Disasters don’t end when the news cameras leave,” said Rev. Denton. “Communities can struggle for years to rebuild. As United Methodists, we show up not only in the immediate aftermath, but for the long haul—offering both practical help and Christ’s love.”
The deployment highlighted the importance of having trained ERT members ready to respond. ERTs are specially trained through the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) to safely and effectively assist in disaster response. Their work includes tarping roofs, removing debris, cleaning out flooded homes, and offering a compassionate presence in the earliest days and months after a disaster.
A new Basic ERT Training will be offered on Saturday, November 1, from 9:00am to 4:00pm at Montclair State University. Those needing re-certification may attend from noon to 4:00pm. Light breakfast and lunch will be provided. The training is open to all—you do not need to be a member of the United Methodist Church to participate.
Spots are limited, so register by October 6 at https://forms.monday.com/forms/8d621161def100f2a68a67caabe5c410?r=use1
By joining an Early Response Team, you can be part of the vital work of bringing hope, healing, and practical help to communities when they need it most.