Lutheran Social Services of the South, the disaster response agency for Lutheran Disaster Response in Texas, Mississippi and Louisiana, has now formed a separate agency—Lutheran Social Services Disaster Response to meet the long-term recovery needs following the devastation of two hurricanes a year ago. With funding and support from LDR, LSSDR is coordinating efforts of over 17,000 volunteers who to date have performed over 700,000 hours of volunteer work. As a result, more than 3,000 homes have been mucked out and 1,100 homes rebuilt.
In addition to the physical rebuilding, LSSDR is working to rebuild lives
and restore hope through case management services funded by Katrina Aid today.
Offices in Houston, Baton Rouge and New Orleans have been established to help
hurricane survivors identify short- and long-term needs, develop plans for recovery
and identify resources to achieve their goals.
More than 1,100 people have been served so far through the case management program.
An estimated 6,400 will be served by October 2007. Additional volunteers are
needed to assist with this program.
The combined effort of rebuilding homes and lives is making a difference for the thousands who have been affected by the hurricanes. For those who have literally lost everything - homes, jobs, community - the task of rebuilding lives can be overwhelming.
The devastation is so immense that those outside the hurricane zone do not
realize the extent of the damage, said Kurt Senske, chief executive officer
of Lutheran Social Services. “We will need volunteers for the next two
to three years at least.”
“People outside of the hurricane zone don’t fully understand the
toll these disasters have taken on the victims,” said Senske. “Think
of how disruptive it is when you have a plumbing problem and have to find a
plumber, take off from work to meet the plumber and hope he or she gets there
and gets everything fixed in one visit. Or, think about how even a minor fenderbender
messes up several days and you have to deal with getting the vehicle repaired,
arranging for a rental car and arguing with insurance companies.
“For the people in the hurricane regions, that disruption is multiplied
many times over. Every aspect of their lives has been affected. They have to
find plumbers, electricians, tree removal people, insurance adjusters, etc.
Because there is such a shortage of skilled laborers, it is nearly impossible
to find the plumber, electrician or sheetrock hanger.
“And they have to do this all while living, driving and working amidst
the destruction. It can truly be overwhelming and that’s why volunteer
help and other case management services are needed,” Senske said.
How you can help:
Financial contributions are still needed. You can give to LSS/DR; LDR or the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Disaster Relief Fund. Gift cards—especially for places that stock home building materials are appreciated.
The communities from Beaumont to Biloxi all need skilled electricians, plumbers,
carpenters, and roofers.
Partner with one specific family to provide emotional and spiritual encouragement.
They could use a friend to walk with them on the long road to recovery. Contact
LSSS to find a family.
Edited from a press release by Katherine Kerr, Vice President for Public Relations, Lutheran Social Services, 8305 Cross Park Dr. Austin, TX 78754 (800) 938-5777