Active Responses
Alongside our partners, we respond to emergencies all over the world. Here are the latest updates on our current responses.
Latest Updates
Situation Report: Hurricane Melissa
Last Updated: October 28, 2025 Situation: On Sunday, October 26, Hurricane Melissa intensified into a powerful Category 4 storm as it moved northwest through the Caribbean Sea, setting its sights on Jamaica in what the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned “could be the strongest direct landfall” Jamaica has ever recorded. The storm has since strengthened into a Category 5 …
From Crisis to Recovery: How CWS Responds to Disasters
CWS walks alongside communities through every stage of a disaster—from preparedness and immediate relief to long-term recovery and resilience building. With deep partnerships and a commitment to equity, we ensure that impacted individuals, including immigrant communities, receive the resources, support, and dignity they need to rebuild and thrive. In every stage of a natural disaster—whether it’s a hurricane, wildfire, or …
Myanmar Earthquake: The Urgent Need for Aid and the Role of CWS
Following the devastating earthquakes in Myanmar and Thailand, which have left thousands dead and displaced millions, international aid has fallen short—especially as U.S. funding cuts hinder relief efforts. In response, CWS is working with local partners to provide emergency assistance, ensuring that affected communities receive critical aid despite global funding shortfalls. The Urgent Need for Humanitarian Aid in Myanmar On …
Situation Report: Myanmar and Thailand Earthquake
Updated: Tuesday, April 8, 2025 Situation: On Friday, March 28, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar and neighboring Thailand, followed minutes later by a 6.4-magnitude aftershock. In total, more than 3,800 people were killed (with estimates rising to 10,000) and more than 3,400 have been injured. Widespread damage has left 143,630 buildings beyond repair, including 1,600 houses, 670 monasteries and …
Creating Refuge Amidst the California Wildfires
Amir Khan, CWS’ Community Engagement Specialist, shares his experience of helping two young Afghan women navigate a harrowing night during the Los Angeles wildfires. This story highlights the challenges refugees face in disaster preparedness and underscores the importance of culturally competent support, as demonstrated by CWS’ inclusive disaster response initiatives. “You’re safe now.” These are the words that Community Engagement …
1,700 Buckets Bring Hope After Hurricanes
Imagine you’re living in an area reeling from the aftermath of a hurricane. You don’t have electricity or a way to contact loved ones. The food in your refrigerator has expired after a few short days, and you’re unsure where to go for the critical supplies your family needs. How would you navigate the uncertainty with limited resources and no …
Hope in Action: 500 Cleanup Buckets for Hurricane Relief
Living out their mission of service, the Southern Ohio Brethren Disaster Ministries recently assembled 500 CWS Emergency Cleanup Buckets in a community effort that continues their long-standing tradition of supporting those affected by disasters. Inspired by the scripture “Serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13), the group, led by Burt and Helen Wolf, works year-round to organize fundraisers and rally …