Storm Recovery
When Hurricane Wilma struck South Florida, hundreds of United Methodist volunteers pitched in to lend a hand. Fulford United Methodist Church in North Miami Beach became one of many staging areas for the recovery operation. At the opposite end of the state, the Conference Disaster Response Supply Depot at Madison in the North West District stepped up its efforts to get much-needed supplies to the affected areas. Through our connectional system, the church offers immediate and long-term assistance in the wake of hurricanes and other natural disasters.

Camping Ministries
Our camping ministries have been a tradition in our conference for generations. They play an important role in the spiritual formation of our children and youth, and are a fertile training ground for many lay and youth ministers. More than a few of our conference clergy found their call there. We offer camping programs in three separate areas of the state. This year more than 3,700 young people participated.

Ministerial Education Fund
The goal of attending seminary would be out of reach for most new pastors were it not for the Ministerial Education Fund. The fund helps bridge the gap between high tuition fees and the reality of low entry-level salaries faced by many new clergy, including Rev. Ken Johnson of West Palm Beach and Rev. Linda Tice of Winter Park.

Migrant Ministry
Two Hispanic congregations in the Gulf Central District, Samoset UMC and First UMC Palmetto, have joined forces to take the Good News of Jesus Christ into the migrant camps. According to Rev. Marcial Carranza and Rev. Roberto Mancillas, the ministry reaches individuals and families who could not attend a traditional church service.