Together We Can Help Huntington, WV Recover

By Beth Casebolt

On September 5, 2015, the Unitarian Fellowship of Huntington, WV, experienced an electrical fire that results in fire, water and smoke damage throughout the building. Thankfully the fast response by the fire department prevented a total loss and minimized the damage.

But it is estimated that nearly $8,000 of the damages will not be covered by insurance and the roof, which was in need of repair before the fire will need replacing immediately. Replacing the roof is estimated to cost over $23,000.

The congregation has already received $5,000 to help with the roof repairs from the OMD Emergency Relief Fund - a fund created for instances just like this. The money from this fund comes from Chalice Lighter Calls, Friends of the OMD donations and other fundraising activities. A true example of our district coming together to help one another.

The congregation has also posted a request on Faithify.org which to date has had $1,745 pledged towards their $8,000 goal. If the goal is not met, they will not receive any of the money. So we are asking that you please reach out and support them on Faithify. We have heard that several congregations around the region will be taking up collections in the next several weeks to support their sister congregation. Any way your congregation can help is appreciated. But don't delay, the drive on Faithify ends December 2.

The congregation is currently meeting in office space graciously donated to them for a brief time. This temporary space is not appropriate for the full spiritual expression of the congregation, but they count ourselves fortunate to have it. Finishing the repairs to the congregation will allow them to return to their spiritual home and resume their outreach work in the Huntington community. We need UUism in West Virginia to see our values represented where they aren't always easily accessed!

We are Better and Stronger Together.

Beth Casebolt

Communications Consultant

About the Author

Beth Casebolt

Beth Casebolt is the Operations Manager and Communications Consultant for the Central East Region. Prior to regionalization she served as the District Administrator for the Ohio-Meadville District, a position she started in November 2007. She is very interested in universal design, websites & more.

For more information contact .

Fire damage at Unitarian Fellowship of Huntington, WV
Fire damage at Unitarian Fellowship of Huntington, WV