Flood Victims of Louisiana Need Our Help!

I think it’s safe to say that we have failed our brothers and sisters in Louisiana. Not sure if it is because we have been distracted with all of the good news from the Olympic games, or whether we simply dropped the ball. At this point it doesn’t matter, Southeast Louisiana continues to experience exponential levels of flooding. Based on a recent Huffington Post article, “The Flood of 2016” here are some frightening stats:

• Between August 12th through August 14th, 4 TRILLION gallons of rain fell
• 20,000 residents have been rescued
• 12,000 people are in shelters
• at last count, ten people have died
• 11 rivers have had all time record highs

While cheering on our country, or while watching the latest video of another person being attached by the police, we have yet to even attempt to gauge how we can assist families in southeast Louisiana. President Barack Obama has declared a federal emergency, and here are some ways you can assist in helping residents in the gulf:

RHO EPSILON CHAPTER OF ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY AT LOUISIANA STATE UNIV – distributing $500 gift cards to families and students directly affected by the floods

SALVATION ARMY – assisting with disaster relief resources – canteens (mobile feeding units), clean up and hygiene kits and sending support personnel to affected areas. Donate money or volunteer

AMERICAN RED CROSS – providing meals and shelters for residents. Click link to donate, or text LAFLOODS TO 90999 to donate $10 or volunteer HERE

LOUISIANA STRONG – GoFundMe campaign that will distribute toiletry care packages

VOLUNTEER LOUISIANA– looking for people willing to assist in the response and recovery efforts

UNITED WAY OF LOUISIANA – looking for donations or volunteers

SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK OF GREATER N.O. & ACADIANA– distributing thousands of pounds of food, and water to victims.

CONVOY OF HOPE – providing food, water, equipment and relief supplies

SAVE THE CHILDREN – establishes specialized spaces within emergency shelters where children’s unique needs can be met