Eurodiaconia expresses its deepest solidarity with the victims of the severe flooding in Spain. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, including the families who have lost loved ones. Too many people have died and the destruction experienced leaves many more people having to rebuild their lives. The magnitude of the disaster is immense, showing the resilience and compassion of citizens, churches and civil society in Spain, who have come together with remarkable solidarity and swift action to support those in need.
Diaconal organisations, are central to social recovery, civil protection and crisis response, with services deeply embedded across these regions. Last week, Eurodiaconia released a brief entitled The Role of Diaconal Organisations in Enhancing Europe’s Crisis Preparedness and Response. The brief explains how diaconal organisations work closely with vulnerable populations, ensuring that support reaches those most in need during these critical moments. Their frontline role in identifying, assisting, and channelling aid to those impacted by disasters like this is crucial, and we stand by them in this mission. This engagement continues beyond the short term due to our members roots in local communities.
It is important to recognize that, while initial waves of solidarity are powerful, the need for support does not disappear as time goes by. The reconstruction and rehabilitation of the affected areas, as well as the psychosocial support for the victims requires from sustained efforts and a long-term vision. Our Spanish members will work to ensure long-term sustainable support in the coming months and years as communities and individuals rebuild their lives.
Diaconía España and Diaconía Madrid are directing supporters who wish to help to donate to a relief account set up by Evangelical Council of the Valencian Community
IBAN: ES85 2100 8681 5202 0009 9085
Diaconía España remains in close contact with their regional partner Diaconía Valencia to be able to continue helping. Asociación Nueva Vida are also encouraging people to support the victims of this tragedy via the above IBAN.
Iglesia Evangélica Española (IEE) – Spanish Evangelical Church mobilised immediately in Valencia and surrounding areas and have opened up their churches for use as emergency accommodation.
Finally, during this immensely difficult time, it is worth remembering that diaconal organizations provide essential psychological and spiritual support to communities during and after crises, which is often an overlooked aspect of emergency response. Their presence helps maintain a sense of community, offering comfort, guidance, and mental health support that aids in recovery and resilience.