LCANZ launches Forbes flood appeal
The LCANZ has launched a churchwide appeal for donations to assist people and community groups affected by the severe flooding in northern and western New South Wales, particularly around Forbes.
An initial target of $20,000 has been set. Donations will be deposited in the LCA Disaster & Welfare Fund, from which assistance will be provided under the direction of the NSW and ACT District.
Forbes is expecting its third major flood peak for the year today, after 140mm of rain fell in a single day within the broader region. The last major peak for the Lachlan River was only a week ago.
Last week the St John’s Lutheran Church at Forbes had water up to the base of the door but water did not enter the building. Sadly, however, one congregation member’s house was flooded.
Today’s peak is scheduled to go well above last week’s highwater mark. Forbes congregation chair Michelle Mahlo said the people in Forbes are ‘just so overwhelmed’.
‘This water is going to levels no-one has ever seen before and everyone is focused on getting through. There is definitely a level of fear for what is ahead of them.’
It is anticipated up to 500 homes in Forbes will go under water if the 1952 flood level is reached, as expected.
On Thursday 17 November LCANZ Bishop Paul Smith released a pastoral message and call for prayer for people and communities across Australia affected by recent floods and storms (read his message here).
Donations to the Forbes Flood Appeal will support Lutherans affected by the floods and also anyone the Lutheran communities in the region are able to assist. If support is required elsewhere – other areas in northern and western New South Wales, and the Riverina in the south – donations may be directed there also. Clean-up work also continues in the Lismore and Moree areas, where multiple floods caused massive damage earlier this year.
Under the terms of the LCA Disaster & Welfare Fund, any funds not used to support this appeal will be held in the fund until required for another purpose. This might include other flood- and storm-affected areas across Australia, as needs become apparent.
Ways to donate can be found on the LCA website www.lca.org.au/disaster-welfare
