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Central Louisiana Red Cross begins preps for Ike
09/07/08 - 07:52 PM
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The Central Louisiana Red Cross Gustav Response Continues-Preparations for Hurricane Ike begin – Updated

September 7, 2008-Alexandria, LA- Preparations began today throughout the Central Louisiana Red Cross chapter in anticipation of Hurricane Ike entering the Gulf of Mexico.  We are currently tracking the storm, assessing shelter possibilities, and working proactively with our partner agencies to insure that appropriate resources are in place should Hurricane Ike strike the Louisiana coast.  As we lean forward for Ike, it is important to remember that the current relief efforts for those affected by Hurricane Gustav are ongoing and that those affected have emergency needs that must still be met.  The Red Cross has over 360 hard working volunteers in our area, with more volunteers on the way.

For those affected by Hurricane Gustav, the Red Cross will begin outreach on Monday and case workers will visit neighborhoods and homes that incurred the worst damage.  In order to assist those with medical or emotional needs, Red Cross health service volunteers will join the client assistance outreach teams.  As we monitor Ike, our outreach will continue over the next several days.  The goal will be to complete outreach quickly to avoid the possible disruption of a new storm.  Should the storm interrupt our efforts, the work will resume as soon as possible afterward.

Today we served over 9500 meals and snacks to residents in the LSU-A shelter, respite centers, and in the outlying areas where clean up and repairs are in progress. Red Cross Damage Assessment (DA) teams have completed damage assessments for 90% of the Central Louisiana region.  New reports indicate 8 destroyed homes, 19 homes with major damage, and 474 with minor damage. 

The National Red Cross estimates it will spend between $30-$70 million supporting the Hurricane Gustav Response.  Currently the Disaster Relief Fund is not sufficient to cover this expense.  The Red Cross has begun preparation for the potential impact of Hurricane Ike and is relying on the compassion and generosity of the American public now more than ever.  Your financial support allows us to do the job.  To make a donation to the Disaster Relief Fund, please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), visit http://www.redcross.org, or contact your Central Louisiana Red Cross at 442-6621.