When tragedy strikes, it is common to wonder how to respond. On a global scale, it can be challenging to know how to help. Here are a few suggestions to get in touch with what is truly going on in Nepal after their communities were destroyed due to a 7.8-magnitude earthquake.

Empathize

When the earthquake hit Nepal, immeasurable damage left the country desolate and desperate, and many near death. Even as you read this people are struggling. Homes have been completely and utterly destroyed, personal possessions lost forever, and families torn apart. Individuals are fighting to find medical attention, nonetheless a tent to stay for the night. As an aftershock rattles the ruins, it rattles the emotional state of each individual.

This is not simply another catastrophic event. The statistics you see increasing by the minute are people, individual lives, completely torn apart and uprooted by this earthquake. Yes, at the time of writing this, more than 4,000 people are presumed dead; 400,000 people are immediately affected; and at least 4,000 homes are no longer inhabitable. Behind these numbers are people, individuals with thoughts, emotions, memories, and futures, now trapped in a state of unimaginable pain and confusion. Remember the individuals and their stories so as to avoid becoming desensitized to the impact this earthquake has had, is having, and will have moving forward.

Pray

Our God is a God of compassion, healing and restoration. As you empathize with the individuals and families effected by the earthquake, turn to God. He hurts just as we hurt in this time of brokenness.

God longs to be present in our lives and he longs to be invited into our pain and suffering. Remember that God intimately knows the pain of loss as He lost His own son. Remember that Christ knows the hurts of an unpredictable world. Remember that you are not alone and share this truth with others. Dare to ask for healing, guidance, and compassion; dare to listen to God’s call in your own life and your own response.

Donate

Give financially toward relief efforts in Nepal. When you donate directly to the Nepal fund, 100 percent will go toward ongoing relief and recovery efforts. Beginning with basic and urgent needs, The Salvation Army is providing shelter, food, water, and additional relief items. You can help ease the burdens caused by the earthquake by giving to provide these essentials. Emotional and spiritual counseling and rehabilitation will be just as important. The devastating effects will be felt for months and even years.

You can give to the Nepal Fund online or by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769). You can also drop off a check at the Rochester Salvation Army Corps Building, 20 First Ave N.E. or mail check donations to The Salvation Army Northern Division, 2445 Prior Ave. N., Roseville, Minn. 55113. Simply designate “Nepal Earthquake” in the memo line.

Advocate

One of the best ways you can help is to inspire others to learn more, pray, and donate to help relief and recovery efforts in Nepal. Share statistics on social media, connect people with organizations that are working directly in Nepal, and spark conversations about the effects caused by an earthquake of this magnitude.

Just as the needs will be ongoing, keep Nepal in your thoughts, prayers, and conversations for the weeks and months to come.

Originally posted on RochesterSA.org.