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My thoughts and prayers are with those families and individuals affected by Hurricane Katrina, the most catastrophic natural disaster in recent U.S. history. While we are devastated by the enormity of this tragedy, our faith, tenacity and determination ensure that we will rebuild and we will endure. The American spirit of generosity will be evident in the days to come, as communities in the afflicted areas come together and our American family from coast to coast provides assistance.
I want to provide those interested in helping the victims some useful information about Hurricane Katrina, links to organizations that are helping provide relief, and how to obtain disaster assistance.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is moving ice, water, meals, Search and Rescue and Disaster Medical Assistance teams into areas hardest hit by Hurricane Katrina. To apply for assistance call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The speech or hearing impaired may call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. You also may visit FEMA’s website for additional information on disaster recovery efforts at www.fema.gov Charitable organizations coordinating aid are listed below.
USA Freedom Corps Operation Blessing
www.usafreedomcorps.gov 1-800-436-6378
American Red Cross Salvation Army 1-800-HELP-NOW (435-7669) English 1-800-SAL-ARMY 1-800-257-7575 Spanish
Donations in cash should be given to established agencies that have a history of working in disasters. Cash donations allow local agencies to issue cash vouchers to victims so they can meet their needs. Volunteer agencies provide a wide variety of services after disasters; such as clean up, child care, housing repair, crisis counseling, sheltering and food. Volunteers should go through professionals and disaster relief agencies to direct them to the hardest-hit areas where they are needed most. For further information, please visit the website for the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) at http://www.nvoad.org
The road to recovery will be long and arduous, but I know the great and generous people of this nation will be there to help their fellow citizens get back on their feet and start a new life wherever that may be. I am hopeful that through the efforts of the federal government, the private sector and ordinary citizens, we will be able to help rebuild not only the lives of those affected by Katrina, but also revitalize the ravaged cities destroyed in Katrina’s path. |
