Operation Comfort

Operation Comfort was started in response to the need for the people of Christchurch to receive the warmth of a human touch following the devastation of the recent earthquake and continuing aftershocks.

Operation Comfort got off to a tremendous start. In just a few moments after our initial meeting different people went off to the local stores where they were given bags and other items for the Operation. People also bought produce and took it to a local home where produce bags and kid’s bags were packed and taken out to be delivered.

The stories fed back were very touching. People in tears as some kindness was shown. People eager to talk and share about their recent experiences. Some older people with whom we now have a relationship where we can visit again. People in real need, who had nothing, with no food and drink in their homes. Shut-ins. I met a man today with a huge gap where an eye should be (I tried not to stare!).

It was a great Kingdom of God experience and people were grateful - noting that this is the Christian church in action! We met nurses and firemen who are exhausted. We talked to people shaken because of their near misses. Everyone agreed that the adrenaline has now run out and we are all feeling weary and frightened. People are worrying now about their homes and their jobs – will I have a job to go back to?

There is a good system of referrals we can use to bring help to people in serious need. The large organisations, the Sallies, the Red Cross and the local Council are doing a fantastic job through the welfare centres and throughout the city. Many local churches are working hard and two key networks of churches arranged for all pastors in the city to come together.

This is a tremendous opportunity to do good and help people who are experiencing such great stress and trauma. People need lots of human contact. They need to talk and hug and hear words of comfort from people who can genuinely offer it genuinely from the heart. We don’t offer platitudes but REAL HOPE.

In response to the needs found Operation Comfort has now transited to offer the following services:

• Response to requests by NGOs to visit a household to check on the situation and where possible meet the needs.

• Assistance to the public in getting their needs met through government departments, NGOs or through practical help from the Church.