Torrential rains in Peru continue to cause catastrophic flooding and mudslides. An estimated 700,000 people are now homeless, and more than 90 people have died. Nazarenes are among those most affected.

The flooding reached five of Peru’s Nazarene districts, which are home to 267 local Nazarene churches and represent half the country’s Nazarene membership. Large areas have been flooded, and one church is located in an area completely submerged by floodwaters. At least 250 Nazarenes in the city of Piura lost everything.

Nazarene churches in unaffected districts of Peru have sent some support, but those congregations are in more impoverished areas and cannot meet the overwhelming needs alone. The Church of the Nazarene’s South America Region is turning to the global Church of the Nazarene to help assist those in need.

Hundreds of thousands of people in Peru have lost their homes, and many are without shelter. Safe water is difficult to find because sewage systems and city water systems are failing. Many areas are without drinking water altogether. Water filters, food, shelter, and first aid supplies are urgent needs.

While some areas have received food assistance, food prices are skyrocketing in others. Roadblocks and flooded streets are also making it difficult to deliver aid, especially to isolated areas.

Certain areas of the country are just now beginning to see the heaviest rain. Experts forecast another week to two weeks of downpours and expect further flooding.

For a video about the flooding and the Church of the Nazarene's response, visit the South America Region's Facebook page.

How to help

Pray

Please pray for those affected by the floods in Peru, especially children, senior adults, and others who are most vulnerable. Pray for those who have lost family members and friends. Pray for those who have lost their homes and livelihoods. Pray for local churches as they provide aid and show God’s love through service.

Church resources are available for download here.

Give

Churches and individuals around the world can support disaster response efforts by giving to the Peru Flooding Fund. Donations will be used to meet urgent needs as well as for long-term recovery and rebuilding.

To send donations by mail:

In the U.S., make checks payable to "General Treasurer" and send them to:
Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
P.O. Box 843116
Kansas City, MO 64184-3116
Be sure to put 127583 in the Memo area.
 
In Canada, make checks payable to "Church of the Nazarene Canada" and send them to:
Church of the Nazarene Canada
20 Regan Road, Unit 9
Brampton, Ontario L7A 1C3
Be sure to put 127583 in the Memo area.
 
For any other country, give through your local church or district, designating your gift to the Peru Flooding Fund.