Early Response Team (ERT)

The Early Response Team was developed to help organize and train people to be prepared to assist when a disaster such as a hurricane, tornado, or flood struck.   Several members of St Matthew’s joined this early effort and received training to prepare them for providing relief to disaster victims.  Our existing program is designed for “trained second responders” to local and national fire/rescue in the event of disasters.  A trailer was
purchased and outfitted by the Conference to provide a means for this team to carry the tools and support equipment needed to be self-sufficient at a disaster site.

The ERT is activated and deployed when a disaster happens.  Follow-up assistance in ravaged areas is often provided by United Methodist Volunteers in Missions (UMVIM) teams.

ERT Reports

History of St. Matthew's Early Response Efforts

November 2004, Mission to Arcadia, Florida following Hurricane Andrew
 Report to the Conference
 Photo report

Hurricane Katrina Relief Log   St. Matthew's is involved directly or indirectly in various efforts to help victims of Hurricane Katrina.  Read September 2005 reports of providing aid - reports from Bowie and on the scene in Mississippi.