In the southern Mexican state of Tabasco, a week of heavy rainfall in late October caused massive flooding, killing one person and forcing nearly a million people to escape the rising waters by seeking higher ground. In neighboring Chiapas, four people were killed and 7,000 were evacuated due to floods. Authorities in Mexico say as many as 700,000 people have been affected.

More than 300,000 Tabasco residents' homes were flooded or damaged and thousands of farmers have lost entire harvests.

Two-storey water levels have completely cut many towns off from civilization, requiring boats and helicopters to rescue people stranded on their rooftops. Thousands of people remain in emergency shelters and in need of provisions. In partnership with the Diocese of Southeastern Mexico, ERD is providing food, first aid supplies and other emergency services to help those impacted by the floods.

"We are extremely worried about the situation in Tabasco and Chiapas," says Southeastern Mexico Bishop Benito Juarez. "Thank you to Episcopal Relief and Development for their concern and for thinking of us."

After two weeks of pounding rain in eastern El Salvador, areas of the region are under water and many homes have been washed away. Working with the Diocese of El Salvador, ERD is providing food, clothing and household essentials to families left homeless by the rains.

To help people affected by the floods in Mexico and El Salvador, make a donation to ERD's "Emergency Relief Fund" online at www.er-d.org, or by calling 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to Episcopal Relief and Development "Emergency Relief Fund" P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.