What is UMCOR?

The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is the humanitarian relief and development agency of the United Methodist Church. Founded in 1940 to assist refugees during World War II, UMCOR has grown into one of the most respected faith-based relief organizations in the world, providing assistance in more than 80 countries.

Mission

UMCOR's mission is to alleviate human suffering—whether caused by war, conflict, natural disaster, or chronic poverty—with open hearts and minds to all people. UMCOR assists regardless of race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation. The agency works alongside communities to address their most urgent needs and build long-term resilience.

Disaster Response

UMCOR is perhaps best known for its disaster response work. When hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, wildfires, or other emergencies strike, UMCOR mobilizes quickly to provide:

• Emergency supplies and relief kits
• Temporary shelter and housing assistance
• Long-term recovery case management
• Volunteer coordination and deployment
• Rebuilding and reconstruction support

UMCOR's disaster response is sustained by a network of trained volunteers, conference disaster response coordinators, and partnerships with other agencies. The organization is committed to staying in affected communities long after the initial emergency passes, supporting recovery that can take years.

Global Development

Beyond disaster response, UMCOR supports sustainable development programs around the world, including clean water projects, food security initiatives, health programs, and livelihoods training. These programs are designed in partnership with local communities and focus on building capacity rather than creating dependency.

100% of Donations

One of UMCOR's most distinctive features is its commitment that 100% of designated donations go directly to the projects and programs for which they are given. UMCOR's administrative costs are covered by a special offering called the One Great Hour of Sharing, which United Methodist congregations collect annually. This means that when you give to a specific UMCOR appeal, every dollar goes to help those in need.