St. James' Episcopal Church - Pullman, Washington

	The people of St. James, like those in other congregations and organizations, responded as individuals and families to the January 12 earthquake in Haiti. Here are some ways in which we provide a congregational response as well: In January 2010 the Social Justice and Outreach Ministries (SJOM) sent the $1,200 from its 2010 Millennium Development Goals allocation to the following groups for work in Haiti: Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) has been, and will be, in Haiti for the long-haul. Reconstruction will be needed for years to come. Rotary ShelterBoxes can quickly address an immediate need. These were delivered right away in Haiti. Partners in Health (PIH) has also been in Haiti for a long-time and was able to provide immediate medical supplies and staff. PIH not only addresses immediate medical issues (eg AIDS, malaria), but the poverty that lies behind those challenges.
	During Lent the congregation took part in a *Once-a-Week Rice & Beans* fundraising project. SJOM provided packets of rice, red beans and a recipe. The congregation was invited to have this meal (the most common one in Haiti - and usually the only meal in a day) once a week during Lent. The money saved in comparison with a "regular meal" was gathered in during and after Easter worship. Over $1,200 has been received through this *Once-a-Week Rice & Beans*. From this money, $1,000 has been combined with a Millenium Development Goals grant of $500 from the diocese to assist work in Cazale, Haiti.		We were invited to eat Red Beans & Rice once a week throughout Lent to be in solidarity with Haitians and all who are hungry.

	The congregation is being asked to consider a longer term commitment to Haiti through cooperation with the Cazale, Haiti Project at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist (Spokane). To learn more about Haiti and what others have experienced, here is some suggested reading: Kent Annan, Following Jesus Through the Eye of the Needle: Living Fully, Loving Dangerously, InterVarsity Press, 2009 Margaret Trost, On That Day Everybody Ate: One Woman’s Story of Hope and Possibility in Haiti, Koa Books, 2008 Future Haiti fundraising projects are expected to include: Benefit Concert this summer or fall. Watch for date and details. Game day parking the second Saturday of September.