Episcopal Relief & Development is partnering with the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande to provide direct assistance to people displaced by the largest wildfire in New Mexico’s history.

The Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak fire began in April 2022. It has burned over 300,000 acres of land and destroyed over 250 structures. In addition, thousands of people were forced to evacuate based on the fire’s path. People displaced by the fire are faced with finding alternate housing with limited income because they are unable to access mailed paychecks.

The Diocese of the Rio Grande has contributed to gas cards and laundry vouchers for evacuees. St. James Episcopal Church members in Taos have leveraged their commercial kitchen to cook meals for community members and first responders. With the support of Episcopal Relief & Development, the diocese will also provide direct cash assistance to survivors who have been displaced.

“St. James Episcopal Church was able to use their gifts and deep connections to the community to respond,” said Tamara Plummer, Program Officer, US Disaster Program, Episcopal Relief & Development. “Having a ministerial presence before a disaster strikes helps dioceses respond quickly and appropriately to needs that may arise.”

Donations to Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Response Fund will help meet critical needs created by this crisis. Learn more about Episcopal Relief & Development’s US Disaster Program here.

For over 80 years, Episcopal Relief & Development has been working together with supporters and partners for lasting change around the world. Each year the organization facilitates healthier, more fulfilling lives for close to 3 million people struggling with hunger, poverty, disaster and disease. Inspired by Jesus’ words in Matthew 25, Episcopal Relief & Development leverages the expertise and resources of Anglican and other partners to deliver measurable and sustainable change in three signature program areas: Women, Children and Climate.