Disasters
Life can change in an instant. Hurricanes, floods and wildfires destroy homes and uproot lives—leaving communities vulnerable for years.
CWS stands with our neighbors before, during and after disaster strikes. We provide culturally sensitive resources, partner with local organizations and ensure immigrant and refugee communities aren’t left behind.
Recovery takes time. With your support, we deliver emergency supplies, cash assistance and long-term recovery programs—so no one walks the road to safety alone.
Your support made the following possible in 2025:
- 123,763 individuals around the world received support, including food rations, shelter and water and sanitation services, following humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters.
- CWS distributed 78,772 Kits and Blankets to neighbors impacted by emergencies around the world, offering comfort and critical supplies when they were needed most.
- 62,000 people across the United States received disaster recovery and preparedness support, delivering over $1.1 million in material aid and cash assistance, securing temporary housing for 162 survivors, and equipping thousands more with technical training and preparedness resources in response to events ranging from the LA wildfires and Texas flooding to Hurricane Milton.
Our work
In every stage of a natural disaster—whether it’s a hurricane, wildfire, or tornado—CWS stands with our neighbors. Our programs help communities prepare long before disaster strikes, strengthening resilience and providing the knowledge and resources needed to stay safe. Learn more about the various stages of recovery for our disaster-impacted neighbors, and how CWS walks alongside them.
- Disaster Preparedness: Even before a disaster hits, CWS works with local partners and communities to prepare. Through training, capacity building, and the pre-positioning of supplies like CWS Emergency Cleanup Buckets, Hygiene Kits, and Blankets, we help equip local responders and faith communities with the tools they need to act quickly when crisis comes. Learn more about how communities can stay prepared in the face of disaster.
- Disaster Response: In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, CWS mobilizes essential supplies to meet urgent needs. We work closely with local partners—such as churches, NVOAD organizations and community groups—to assess needs and deliver items like CWS Kits and Blankets to shelters and distribution centers. We also provide multilingual resources for immigrant populations, connecting them to community services and, in some cases, temporary housing support. View our active responses.
- Disaster Recovery: Although most disaster funds are raised in the immediate aftermath, only about 2% typically support long-term recovery—leaving critical gaps for families rebuilding their lives. CWS fills those gaps by supporting recovery groups and case management efforts that help families rebuild with dignity. Through grants, technical support, and partnerships with local leaders, we invest in sustainable, community-led recovery—often months or years after the headlines have faded. Make a donation to support our Emergency Response Fund