FOND VERRETTES, Haiti--The death toll continues to rise as recent flood waters recede in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. More than 1,000 people have been found dead or are presumed dead and thousands are homeless.

At least 20 children sponsored through World Vision are among the confirmed fatalities in the hardest hit area of Jimani, according to Crosswalk.com.

"Losing these children is an incredible tragedy for the town," said World Vision communicator Carla Swanson-Gawthrop. "It also will be heartbreaking for the American families who were supporting and caring for them."

The flooding claimed the lives of 15 members of the Bodarie Church of the Nazarene that was swept away by the torrent, according to a report from NCN News. Caribbean Nazarene Region Director John Smee called for prayer.

"Currently, Nazarene Disaster Response in Haiti is rather limited for those most heavily affected because those areas are impossible to reach," he said. "We pray that soon we will be able to get to these who need help so much."

Several Christian organizations have responded to the devastation, according to Crosswalk.com. World Vision and Food for the Hungry delivered emergency food, water and medicine to some 4,500 people. World Vision also provided clothing, diapers, mosquito nets, cooking supplies and help in finding shelter.

The agency is coordinating with the National Public Health Secretary staff to provide medical help. Standing water left by the flood poses multiple health risks.

United Methodist News Service reports that the United Methodist Committee on Relief is providing emergency assistance in the Dominican Republic with money and supplies.

They anticipate extensive rebuilding and recovery, said the Rev. Kristin L. Sachen, international disaster response executive. "Today's actions are only the beginning of a fuller response," Rev. Sachen said.

"We are sick with grief," said R. Randy Day, the head of mission for The United Methodist Church, in a statement. "The loss of so many lives in the floods sends us to our knees in prayers for the victims; it compels us quickly to offer material assistance in the name of Jesus Christ."

Meanwhile, spring storms in the U.S. have prompted relief action from Lutheran churches, according to an ELCA News report. Lutheran aid organizations are assessing damage from tornadoes, storms and floods that recently struck Iowa, Michigan, Nebraska and Wisconsin and will offer money and support through local churches.