John and Robin McCullough-Bade, pastors in Baton Rouge, LA, have assisted with putting together the following suggestions:
Want to help? Here are a variety of ways to help with continuing relief and recovery efforts.
• Prayers—First, thanks for your prayers. God continues to sustain his children during difficult days.
• Cleaning Kits—Lutherans are organizing cleaning kits in Baton Rouge, LA. FEMA estimates that 2000 cleaning kits are needed per week for the next year. Cleaning kits include a bucket, broom, dust pan, sponge, all-purpose cleaner, dish detergent, and laundry detergent. (Purchases are currently being made by bulk from local businesses to support the local economy. Each kit costs approximately $15.00). Consider becoming a partner in this project. You may write a check to Christ the King Lutheran Church earmarked to “Living Kits,” and the church office will forward your contribution to the synod office.
• Support Our Local Evacuees—We continue to support our partner agencies, like Christian Community Service Center, SEARCH, and Interfaith Ministries, and the Houston Food Bank. For more information on any of these agencies, see the mobile bulletin board, pick up a 2005 annual report from the literature rack in the narthex, or call the church office.
• Advocate—Many of the victims of the hurricane are the poorest of the poor. Continue to be the voice for the voiceless. For advocacy resources, see the mobile bulletin borards or contact the church office.
• Volunteer—There are ways to volunteer. Continue to check out the following website of the Texas/Louisianan Gulf Coast Synod for ways to serve: www.futurewithhope.org. The following congregations are open for volunteer groups to come and stay at their congregation: Peace Lutheran in Slidell, LA; Hosanna Lutheran in Mandeville, LA; and Christ the King Church in Kenner, LA. Other opportunities and information can be found at www.elca.org/disaster or www.ldr.org. If you’re interested in organizing a volunteer group from Christ the King Lutheran Church, please contact Russell Post.