CHICAGO, Ill.--Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) is working with local congregations in Utica, Ill. where tornadoes killed eight people and damaged dozens of homes and businesses.

According to a news release, the ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, are organizing relief and recovery work in nearby Joliet and Granville, Ill. as well.

According to the Rev. Gilbert B. Furst, LDR director, Utica was the hardest hit during the most recent rash of some 51 tornadoes reported to the National Weather Service. Most of the storm activity centered in Indiana and Illinois. 

Furst said Lutheran Child and Family Services of Illinois, River Forest, and Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, Des Plaines, are coordinating LDR's response. Both agencies are in contact with area churches to "assess needs and encourage volunteer participation from local congregations," Furst said.

"As part of the immediate response, LCFS has been asked by the American Red Cross to provide a mental health worker," Furst said. There is a pre-school 10 miles away from Utica, and LCFS is preparing to provide "defusing and debriefing for children through a counselor," he said.

Church World Service will also organize a long-term disaster response plan in Utica. LDR will make funds available for emergency needs, according to Furst.

"As LDR responds to the survivors of this latest disaster, please offer your prayers for the safety and well-being of those affected, as well as those who are responding. Donations will help the church offer God's help and hope now and for the long haul," Furst said.