While hurricane season has already begun, the most active month September is still before us. With severe weather events occurring with higher frequency, it’s more important than ever to be prepared. We’ve gathered some resources to help believers and churches prepare to help others.

When It Comes to Humanitarian Work, Your Good Intentions Are Not Good Enough

If you’re not convinced of the need to prepare or you’re not sure where to start, these words from Pastor Dennis Kilama are a great place to begin. Nonprofit organizations may have the best intentions to help, but to help most effectively and minimize harm, it’s critical to prepare and practice before a disaster takes place.

What Standard Should We Use for Loving Our Neighbors in Crisis?

Good news! The hard work of setting minimum standards for crisis response has already been done! This article outlines some of the most significant principles and standards for providing care.

Resources for Trauma Healing After Disaster

Philip G. Monroe, Psy.D., the Director of the Trauma Healing Institute at American Bible Society (ABS), discusses the guide Beyond Disaster: A Survivor’s Guide for Spiritual First Aid. The resource was created by ABS following a devastating hurricane to serve trauma survivors.

How to Be a Church Ready to Respond Next Time

Don’t underestimate the impact disasters could have on your household or church. Heed the warnings and prepare for and practice your response.

Spiritual First Aid Manual

The Spiritual First Aid Manual, developed by the Humanitarian Disaster Institute, is a free resource composed of biblical wisdom and expert advice to help survivors in the immediate aftermath of a crisis.

Psychological First Aid

Administering psychological first aid in the immediate aftermath of a disaster can mitigate the long term effects on a person’s psychological health. This reference sheet is great for helping you think through the best things to say and do when interacting with someone who has just been through a traumatic event.

From Self Care to Soul Care

When we’re caring for others, oftentimes we neglect to care for ourselves. An important aspect of self care is soul care. Remember who you are as a child of God so you can get back to serving the most vulnerable.

These are all great resources for being a better Samaritan and making the road safer for your household or congregation. If you live in an area at risk of hurricanes, be sure to reference the CDC’s guide to preparing for a hurricane or tropical storm.