Winter has arrived, with snow and ice, cold and wind. I pray for all who live in the elements, and I am particularly concerned about people in the Crow Nation whose houses were storm-damaged, leaving holes to the outside, and water damage and mold inside.

Could you help out our neighbors in the Crow Nation? A winterization kit from Amazon will go a long way in assisting people living in storm- damaged homes to protect themselves from the elements while they wait for replacement housing to be built.

In September a few of us from the greater Billings area UCC Clergy met with leaders of FEMA and the Crow Nation. Many of the houses were destroyed or severely damaged by a storm in 2024, and FEMA is working to shelter some folk and, for those who are staying in their homes, provide winterization kits. Although corporate donors were approached to provide the winterization kit materials, no one has stepped up. So I am asking if our churches or church members might provide some kits from the Amazon list below. The list includes furniture and appliances that are needed for shelter spaces, and perhaps those may be something you’d like to provide.

Consider ordering winterization kit (plastic sheeting, spray foam insulation, under door wind blocker, water covers, caulking, mold control, sealant tape, foam insulation). If these products are not shippable, they are available at hardware stores, and if you get them to the Conference Office (2016 Alderson Ave, Billings, MT 59102), we will make sure they are delivered in the first week of January.

This is the statement from FEMA:

In August 2024, severe winds and rain damaged many homes on the Crow Reservation. After a federal disaster declaration, FEMA began the process to authorize a Permanent Housing Construction (PHC) mission to repair or rebuild the most affected homes—a rare program with lasting community impact.

As long-term recovery begins, many families will face another harsh winter. Local nonprofits, faith-based groups, and the Tribe are leading Sheltering and Winterization projects to provide warm, safe spaces. If you’re able to help, please visit the Amazon wish list below, share it with others, and thank you for all you do.

Amazon Wish List

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3EDYPPQG5PRVJ?ref_=wl_share

In this winter season, I pray warmth of heart and home to all, I wish Christmas peace and joy to you, and I ask the blessing of hope for the coming New Year.

In prayer and peace,

Pastor Tony