Hope Force, Intl. (Housed currently at: Little Caillou Fire Dept) - Hurricane Gustav/Ike Response, LA

Sept 6, 2008 -- Hope Force International currently has teams on the ground throughout Louisiana since the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Gustav's landfall. There is still no power in much of the state, and reports back from our team leaders tell of very rough living conditions: no running water, no power...and working 14 - 16 hour days serving needy, hungry people.

Our second Hope Force team is just outside the city of Houma, in Terrebonne Parish, South Louisiana -- a population of 100,000. This is the hardest hit area, where Hurricane Gustav made landfall. We are working with the local councilman and fire chief to identify initial priorities that will assist the greatest needs. Our team of 12 are sleeping on the floor of the local firehouse. Just as our team in Baton Rouge have described: there is no power, no air conditioning in brutal heat and humidity, and no water.

Craig Snow -- our team leader -- states, "Our objective is to come alongside those affected by Hurricane Gustav with love, compassion and practical help, to clear debris from homes and assist with prevention of further water penetration into homes. Our plan is to set up a base camp that can eventually accommodate 100 volunteers. What we have discovered is an area greatly affected by wind damage. The majority of power poles have been compromised, so the restoration of power will take some time. Living conditions will be very primitive for days. We are partnering with the Hope Coordination Center and Hands On in this endeavor."

Craig went on to state that when he introduced himself to a local Fire Chief, stating that the team was there to volunteer, the Fire Chief choked up with tears. This area was spared during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, so for them this is the worst devastation they have ever experienced.

Our greatest need is for the funding of food, fuel and operational expenses. We are grateful for a generous gift from Home Depot -- a $5,000 store credit for materials, which is a wonderful start to our recovery efforts.

Would you please consider making a generous donation today by simply clicking the "Donate Now" button on the right side bar ... helping to ensure our ability to respond to those who are in desperate need at this time. Thank you!

(If individuals or teams are interested in assisting in the recovery efforts in Houma, Louisiana, please contact us at: info@hopeforce.org )

Reservists: You are on high alert -- and additional deployments are probable. Hurricane Ike's projected path is headed toward the Louisiana, Mississippi gulf coast -- the same area that Gustav made landfall. Please read all communications that go out, and read updated reports in the Reservist Corner. Thank you!