Purpose

To follow Christ’s examples and teachings of assisting those in need and sharing with them the love of the Lord Jesus Christ.

To provide labor for clean-up, repair, rebuilding, or other assistance following a disaster, or for other special needs.

To maintain an organization to facilitate assistance for disasters or special needs.

History

On April 3, 1974, a devastating tornado struck Xenia, Ohio.  Many brethren offered to help, but proper credentials were needed to enter the damaged area.  These credentials were finally obtained, allowing volunteers from our churches to assist. Many brethren, sisters and children helped with clean-up, rebuilding, clothing distribution, and encouragement.This experience prompted a group of Old German Baptist Brethren to select coordinators in each Ohio congregation to call for volunteers in the event of a disaster.  A coordinating committee was established, who maintained contact with the Mennonite Disaster Service so that credentials could be quickly obtained to enter a disaster area.  This plan served well for 30 years, allowing volunteers to assist following tornados, floods, fires, and hurricanes throughout several states.  

In 2005 Hurricane Katrina came ashore near Waveland, Mississippi, killing over 1,800 people and destroying countless homes.  This group, now known as Ohio Disaster Response or ODR, organized a base in Waveland and took volunteers for the following four winters, building several homes and making repairs to many others.  Mobile kitchen, showers, beds, and dining equipment were donated and prepared. Since that time, CDS has had volunteers working in many areas, including Yazoo MS, Joplin MO, Toms Run NJ, Charleston SC, Burgaw NC, and most recently, Waverly TN. 

In 2009, the organization was renamed “Christian Disaster Service” (CDS) in an effort to clarify it as a Christian effort.  The group maintains contact with potential volunteers in various Brethren fellowships and has on-going contact with other faith-based disaster and relief organizations. 

Financial

During a project, the homeowner or other organizations are depended on to provide the building materials, while CDS is primarily focused on providing labor.  CDS functions solely with volunteers, rather than a paid staff, therefore it has little financial needs.  However, there are some expenses for maintaining the camps and equipment.  Those who cannot give their time may assist by forwarding donations to: 

Brethren Charity Fund 
PO Box 365 
Brookville, OH 45309