On July 9, 2023, severe storms unleashed more than five inches of rain in Berks County in just a few hours, leading to flash flooding and widespread damage to homes, businesses, and schools. Lutheran Disaster Response ‒ Eastern Pennsylvania (LDR–EPa) has been at the forefront of recovery efforts ever since.
A mission of compassion, faith, and service
As a ministry of Lutheran Congregational Services working in partnership with the ELCA’s Lutheran Disaster Response program, LDR–EPa has played a pivotal role in long-term recovery efforts. With a grant from Lutheran Disaster Response to fund case management, LDR-EPa case workers are helping 31 affected families, primarily in the Penn View Trailer Park, to navigate insurance claims and access state programs such as PEMA’s Disaster Recovery Assistance Program (DRAP) to fund repairs.
From LDR to PEMA to community organizations, collaboration is key
“Our caseworkers are the primary point of contact for the households,” says Julia Frank, Lutheran Disaster Response Coordinator for Eastern Pennsylvania and President of Pennsylvania Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (PA VOAD). “But we couldn’t do what we do alone. Volunteers from many organizations have replaced wet insulation, repaired drywall, installed flooring, and made homes habitable again.”
As president of PAVOAD, Frank also oversees collaboration between local and state agencies, plus faith-based and secular organizations, as they work together to rebuild. Community partners include Pennside Presbyterian, Antietam Valley Community Partnership, Berks County Lutheran Churches and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, and the Antietam Valley Long Recovery Group.
“There are a lot of moving parts,” she says.
God’s work. Our hands.
While LDR–EPa’s efforts are rooted in faith, their mission is to serve everyone. “We don’t ask about someone’s faith or political beliefs,” Frank explains. “Our goal is simply to serve, inspired by Christ’s call to care for others. It’s about restoring hope and dignity for our brothers and sisters. That’s what motivates me to do this work every day.”
Although nearly 40% of LDR-EPa’s cases have been resolved, the road to full recovery continues.
“It takes time,” says Frank, “but we can help people get to a place where their homes have heat, are free of mold, and are insulated and waterproofed. We’re committed to bringing relief—one home and one family at a time. It’s not glamorous, but we’re able to return some dignity to their lives.”
About Lutheran Disaster Response – Eastern PA
Lutheran Disaster Response – Eastern PA (LDR–EPa), a ministry of Lutheran Congregational Services, works in partnership with the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America’s (ELCA) Lutheran Disaster Response program to oversee disaster preparedness and response in 24 counties of eastern Pennsylvania. Its work is made possible through the dedication of volunteers and generous support from donors. LDR–EPa’s depth of experience in long-term recovery and wide network of disaster partners enables them to efficiently connect survivors with the appropriate resources, recruit volunteers to assist with recovery, and provide congregations with the training and resources needed to best serve impacted communities.
To donate, visit https://libertylutheran.org/giving/lutheran-disaster-response/.
