Disaster response

Disasters have plagued a number of areas around the country in recent years. The destruction resulting from an EF5 tornado in Joplin, Mo., in May is one example. The storms that hit Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois more recently also come to mind. While no one wants to go through a disaster, the good news is that in many of these cases there have been faith-based groups who have worked with other organizations to help those in need.

Today Gov. Jay Nixon is in Cape Girardeau as part of a disaster preparedness workshop for faith-based organizations. The event, which will go from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in a multipurpose room at Saint Francis Medical Center's Fitness Plus, will feature the governor along with a number of other speakers who will address key disaster response issues.

Registration is required to attend the workshop. As of Wednesday afternoon, 120 individuals had signed up. However, organizers say others are welcome to register at the door before the event.

We are grateful to the many churches and other faith-based organizations that have played an integral role in disaster response. Your willingness to help others in desperate need is commendable and appreciated by many. We certainly hope this area does not get hit by a disaster, but it's important to be prepared. Those who attend today's workshop will learn valuable information that will benefit their organizations and the people they serve.