NEW YORK, Jan. 9, 2008--More than a week of violence following disputed elections has left the lives of many Kenyans in shambles. Nearly 200,000 people have been displaced by the crisis--many of them fleeing to neighboring Uganda.

The United Methodist Committee on Relief is working to bring supplies and shelter for the displaced. UMCOR is assisting the East Africa Conference in their efforts to provide food and shelter to Kenyans who have fled to Uganda. Schools, churches and other structures are being used as shelters both in Kenya and Uganda. An additional concern for the entire region is that the conflict in Kenya has cut off Mombasa, a major port that supplies much of East Africa.

Direct Assistance

UMCOR is working to bring food, water and other necessities directly to the Nairobi Evangelical Graduate School of Theology in Karen where many people are seeking refuge. United Methodist communicator, John Makokha, lives on the campus and is working to provide those sheltering there with sufficient food and water. The truckload of supplies will directly help Makokha in his efforts.

UMCOR is also in contact with the Methodist Church of Kenya and anticipates assisting Action by Churches Together partners in their response. "We continue to monitor the situation and are working diligently to bring relief and assistance to our sisters and brothers in Kenya," said Sam Dixon, UMCOR's chief executive.

Call for Prayer

"We pray for the return of peace to Kenya," writes Bishop Wandabula. He notes that the churches in East Africa set aside Sunday, January 5, as a day of prayer for peace and reconciliation for Kenya. Bishop Wandabula concluded his letter with a call to prayer for a peaceful resolution to the conflict and for relief for those who have suffered in the violence.

To give to UMCOR's response in Kenya, please make out your check to UMCOR and mail it to UMCOR PO Box 9068, New York, NY 10087. Write "UMCOR Advance #982450, International Disaster Response - Kenya" on the memo line of your check. Visit UMCOR's website at www.umcor.org and give online or call 1-800-554-8583 to give over the telephone. One hundred percent of every donation to any appeal, including appeals for Kenya, goes to support the designated program.

Contact: Michelle Scott
phone: 212-870-3815
email: mscott@gbgm-umc.org