Episcopal Relief & Development is the international relief and development agency of The Episcopal Church of the United States. Its programs span immediate disaster relief, long-term recovery and disaster preparedness programs. The agency supports local responses to disasters and unique long-term initiatives that address poverty, hunger, economic development, and disease, including HIV/AIDS and malaria. As an independent organization (with its own 501(c)3 charitable status) since 1940, ERD takes its mandate from Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:37-40. Together with the worldwide Church, ecumenical agencies, and local organizations, ERD works to save lives and strengthen communities in the United States and more than 40 countries around the world. For more information click contact the Church office.