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Moreau Family of 3 ID # 101 Father - Age 38 Children - 1 girl - 16, 1 boy - 11 Originally from Meraux, Louisiana Adopted by family in London, England 10/19/05 |
Comments: We left St. Bernard Parish the night before Katrina to Dallas for a Mandatory evacuation. We only took enough clothes for a couple of days because we were so use to coming back home after a close call. Well as you know we took a direst hit and was left with only the clothes to last a couple of days. Now we are in Baton Rouge in a small apt and are trying to start our lives over again and slowly we are doing just that. |
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Eck Family of 5 ID # 102 Father - Age 34 Mother - Age 35 Children - 1 girl - 13, 2 boys - 7 & 5 Originally from Long Beach, Mississippi Adopted by family in Chicago, Illinois 10/19/05 |
Comments: We tried to leave but traffic to bad. We stayed 10 miles from beach. Our house is only 1 mile from beach. We had a tree fall on house water got in and we have spots all over the house. House has shifted. We have a horrible rat problem now. Its hard to sleep at night. We had no insurance. The boy's school was destroyed so they share another and go from 12:30-5:30. |
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Stovall Family of 2 ID # 103 Mother - Age 27 Children - 1 girl - 3 Originally from Biloxi, Mississippi Adopted by family in Brandon, Mississippi 10/19/05 |
Comments: My experience from the storm was quite a shock to return home and find friends and neighbors homes completely gone. Places that I've grown up around that were familiar are quite different today. Things that we take for granted, simply aren't there anymore. It was definitely a hurricane none of us will soon forget. In advance, I thank you for any help that you find it in your heart to give, it will be greatly appreciated. Love always, the Stovall Family |
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Leon Family of 3 ID # 104 3 Siblings - 2 Sisters - 32 & 26, 1 Brother - 24 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by family in Salem, Oregon 11/05/05 |
Comments: The day before the hurricane my whole entire family moved to my sister house in fort worth Texas. Here in Texas were my sister and her husband only and they took us in. Now it is a total of twelve of us total in the house. We have lost everything an has decided to stay here in Texas. We are in serious need of help. My sister has emptied their bank account helping our family in need, because FEMA or any other government agencies says they only help certified business not family members helping family. We would really appreciate you help. Thank You and God bless |
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Rhodes Family of 7 ID # 105 Mother - Age 55 Children - 3 girls - 7, 7 & 11 months, 3 boys - 5, 2 & 1 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by family in Meridian, Idaho 10/20/05 |
Comments: Well on the day before katrina hit, I packed up my family of twelve in one mid size vehicle a left. With no where in mind we just drove where everyone else was going Baton Rouge. I call my daughter and son in law and told them we have no where to go and was it ok to come to Texas. They say yes immediately and give us directions. When we got there they bought us bedding and all necessities that were needed. Out of their own pocket, they've taken great care of all twelve of us. God Bless them and keep them. My daughter has taken on a second job just to keep up with the bills. We're still living here with her and her husband and by the grace of God all bills are paid in full. May God Bless you all. |
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Harnisch Family of 3 ID # 106 Father - Age 54 Mother - Age 64 Children - 1 girl - 27 Originally from Gulfport, Mississippi Adopted by family in Salem, Oregon 11/03/05 |
Comments: I am requesting any and all help for the holidays. My parents and I had to leave the gulf coast due to the immense flooding that was cause to the house we were living in. We had to stay in the house for 2 weeks before we could leave and with the heat and such my dad and I both got sick. We left and are in a nice place that was found for us by nice people who wanted to help evacuees. We would love is someone can adopt my family for the holidays so our holiday season isn't destroyed as our autumn has been. |
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Fleming Family of 3 ID # 107 Father - Age 43 Mother - Age 38 Children - 1 boy - 9 Originally from Perkinston, Mississippi Adopted by family in Manchester, Connecticut |
Comments: We left Sunday when we realized the storm would be bad. We went to Texas and watched the storm on tv and were horrified by what we saw. We knew we would have nothing left and after we got back and saw our home and belongings we were just numb. We went through what was left and took what we could get and just rode to town with all we had left. Everywhere we looked was devastation, and people walking around with everything they owned, some with garbage bags and some with their vehicles packed down with all they had like us. It looked like bombs went off, military everywhere. There wasn't anywhere to stay , so like alot of people we stayed in tents and with friends when we could. Finally I got a hold of a computer and found hurricanehousing.org and that's where I found a couple wanting to help us with a place to stay. We will be here until January 31st and then go back to the coast and try and start over. I think there are alot of Angels in America, because alot of people wouldn't have made it through this without everyone's help, and I want to Thank Everyone. God Bless All, The Fleming Family |
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Riedlinger Family
of 3 ID # 108 Mother - Age 48 Children - 2 girls - 25 & 18 Originally from Metairie, Louisiana Adopted by family Lakeland, Florida 10/20/05 |
Comments: Both my daughters live with me. My husband died Feb, 8 of this year, and I have been struggling ever since. I have been very sad since he died. He was the best man I ever had. And the hurricane has put more pressure on me. I really wish I could get my husband back, but I know I can't. He died of Advanced Pulmonary Fibrosis. He was only 43. He is all that I think about. He was buried in New Orleans. |
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Hill Family of 5 ID # 109 Mother - Age 25 Fiancée - Age 45 Children - 1 girl - 3, 1 boy - 7 Other Family - Mother - Age 45 Originally from Pelahatchie, Mississippi Adopted by Students at University of Pittsburg, PA 10/20/05 |
Comments: Our family was evacuated from our home when the incident occurred. We lost clothing and food. |
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Barnes Family of 7 ID # 110 Mother - Age 23 Father - Age 26 Children - 2 girls - 11 & 2, 1 boy - 4 Other Family Members Grandfather - 53, Grandmother - 43 Originally from Osyka, Mississippi Adopted by Family in Palmetto Bay, Florida 10/20/05 |
Comments: This family is a very close knit family and very active in their church, singing, teaching Sunday School, helping neighbors and community. Grandfather has lung cancer, and 11 year old girl borderline diabetic. |
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Huff Family of 7 ID # 111 Mother - Age 40 Children - 4 girls - 17, 16, 22 & 12, 2 boys - 20 & 4 Originally from Kentwood, Louisiana Adopted by a Business in San Francisco, California 10/20/05 |
Comments: Had to evacuate mobile home prior to storm severe damage to home. Moved to rental property with current home in possible foreclosure. |
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Pinkney Family of 9 ID # 112 Mother - Age 44 Father - Age 50 Children - 3 girls - 24, 13 & 19 4 boys - 16, 11, 26, & 1 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Palm Harbor MRI Department Palm Harbor, Florida 10/24/05 |
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Barnard Family of 3 ID # 113 Mother - Age 31 Boyfriend - Age 30 Children - 1 girl - 10 Originally from Gulfport, Mississippi Adopted by family in Portland, Oregon 10/20/05 |
Comments: We were told to get out ASAP from our apartment, in Gulfport. we are staying with family for a while, but not much longer. We are looking for a home at this time. We will be homeless in 2 weeks. |
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Hess Family of 2 ID # 114 Wife - Age 41 Husband - Age 38 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana This family is back
on their feet and appreciates all that so many have done for them.
They asked to be removed from the Angel Tree and pray God's special
blessings on all the other families listed here. |
Comments: Had to swim 3 blocks to a Fidelity Bank where we got taken in a helicopter. Please pray for us. I did just get a job at a local grocery store and I Thank God everyday for His protection and allowing me to be able to work and to try and provide for us. Thank you all and God Bless and Merry Christmas. |
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Hall Family of 5 ID # 115 Mother - Age 36 Children - 2 boys 17 & 16, 1 girl 12 Grandmother - 55 Originally from Biloxi, Mississippi Adopted by family in Biloxi, Mississippi 10/24/05 |
Comments: I was in hospital but daughter and children stayed in house till it got to bad and went to other daughters house and water began to rise and they had to float chest high water, we lost everything even our car, my oldest grandson is still having night mares. We appreciate anything...God bless. |
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Bolling Family &
Entire 5th Grade Class ID # 116 18-20 students Long Beach, Mississippi Adopted by Friends
in Manchester, Connecticut! WHAT A
BLESSING! |
Comments: I have a daughter who is in 5th grade and attends Harper McCaughn School. I am asking for some one or a group to adopt my daughter's 5th.grade class for Christmas. You see these little children have been through so much this year. Everyday I see the pain on their little faces. These children from Harper McCaughn School in Long Beach, Ms. are now going to school in split shifts from 12:30 till 5:30 everyday, which leaves no time to play after school, because it gets dark so early. I don't think they will have a Halloween either, the street are still piled with debris and the street lights are still out and there is still a curfew. A lot of these children have lost their homes, clothes and all of their belongings. When they left their school to prepare for the Hurricane, they never expected not to return. It breaks my heart to know my daughter has gone to that school since kindergarten and her last months of elem. school now has to be at a whole different school. These Children will be blessed by God, for it is the children that keeps us (Parents, teachers, and principal) going to pick up the pieces of our lives that have been ripped, thrown and tossed so severely only one could imagine. Thank You and God Bless |
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Sullivan Family of 3 ID # 117 Mother - Age 25 Children - 1 boy 6, 1 girl 2 months Originally from Harvey, Louisiana Adopted by Palm Harbor MRI Department Palm Harbor, Florida 10/24/05 |
Comments: I evacuated with a neighbor on the 28th of August the day before the storm. And We lost everything we have been in the hotel since then waiting on FEMA for housing assistance. If anyone can help that would be a blessing to and my family. But take care of our brother and sisters with their children and the elderly that suffered the aftermath of the hurricane first b/c even though me and my family are still in the hotel we are blessed and grateful..... |
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Ancira Family of 8 ID # 118 Mother - Age 32 Father - Age 33 Children - 2 girls 14 & 9, 4 boys 12, 11, 10, & 7 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Family in San Diego, California 11/3/05 |
Comments: We lived in New Orleans and when the hurricane hit us i had no money to leave to my sisters house in Texas so we road the storm out in our 2 bed room trailer . the next 2 weeks was trouble it was hot no food or water was around we had went shopping so we had a little food and water my kids were so scared and so was i we got out of New Orleans 2 weeks later and stayed with my family in San Marcos TX were we are now we plan on staying with them for about 1 year or so until we can get some help. I thank you for what ever you do you are a big help with this many kids it is hard to start over. |
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Moreau Family of 2 ID # 119 Wife - Age 37 Husband - Age 36 Originally from Arabi, Louisiana Adopted by a family
in |
Comments: We evacuated with only two sets of clothes. Left for Tennessee the night before Katrina struck. Not only do I have to worry about my health now (I am in remission from Breast Cancer) but I have to worry about where we will go and what we will do as each new day comes. There is no more money in the bank and my job will not resume for another three weeks. Please help anyway you can. We are not use to excepting any kind of handout even through my illness, but now i ask for help. |
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Ebeling Family of 2 ID # 120 Mother - Age 38 Children - 1 son - 4 Originally from Kenner, Louisiana Adopted by Business in Rochester, NY 11/1/05 |
Comments: I evacuated with the friends that I am staying with. The first night we stayed in Lafayette. We could only get one hotel room for six people, seven dogs, three cats, two birds, and one hamster. Also, we could only stay there for one night. The next morning we drove to Lake Charles, LA where we split up into two rooms. We had other friends staying there as well. There were thirteen of us altogether which made it nice to have familiar faces from home. Everyone at the hotel was so nice and helpful to all of us evacuees. We then went home for one night and slept in the house without electricity. We gathered some of our belongings and then went to stay in Raceland at the house of a friend. The house was a rental and currently vacant. We all slept on blow up mattresses. We were grateful to have a house to stay in even though we had no phone, cable or internet service. You just don't realize how dependent you are until you do without. Before Hurricane Katrina I had just moved in with friends temporarily. I am a single parent struggling to work full time and attend the University of New Orleans full time to get a degree in Early Childhood Education. I was having a tough time making ends meet, became two weeks late with my rent, and was evicted. My friends took my son and I in temporarily and I put my entire house except for our summer clothes and a few personal belongings in storage. My friends house made out fine from the storm, but my storage flooded and I lost almost everything I have. I don't know how I will ever recover. My son and I sleep on a blowup mattress together in the middle of the living room and have no privacy. My son tells me all the time that he wants a house for just the two of us, a house like we had before. I just don't know what to tell him and it breaks my heart. |
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Guimond Family of 6 ID # 121 Mother - Age 33 Father - Age 30 Children - 3 boys - 10, 9 & 3, 1 girl - 7 Originally from Ocean Springs, Mississippi Adopted by Amelia Academy Honor Society in Amelia, Virginia - Thanksgiving Meal Adopted by Friends in Cumberland, Virginia - Christmas |
Comments: I had just moved to Mississippi two wks before the hurricane because my husband was going to Iraq for 15 months. The hurricane hit and I had to move my whole family to Virginia and relocate there. The only thing I took was what I could fit in my van. Any little bit can help. Voucher for food/supplies. Thank you very much. |
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Sullivan Family of 3 ID # 122 Mother - Age 25 Children - 1 boy - 6, 1 girl - 2 months Originally from Harvey, Louisiana Adopted by Family in Florien, Louisiana 11/2/05 |
Comments: I evacuated with a neighbor the day before the storm. B/c I didn't have a car me and my family lived in subsidized housing, and didn't have much money but a neighbor got us out of there thank God we are so blessed. We only took a little bit of clothes b/c we too like everyone else thought we would be back and three days... If anyone can help us God Bless you And your Family. |
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Dixon Family of 7 ID # 123 Mother - Age 36 Children - 4 boys - 18, 17, 15 & 13 Aunt - Age 68 Male Cousin - Age 43 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Calvary
Covenant Tabernacle |
Comments: We lived in the 7th ward when katrina hit we lost everything my sons and i were separated in the bridge for 6 days once rescued we were located to Beaumont, TX where once again we were running for our lives we lost everything twice and now i am staying with good friends in Oklahoma pray for us all. |
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Evans Family of 4 ID #124 Mother - Age 20 Father - Age 21 Children - 2 boys - 22 months & 33 months Originally from Prichard, Alabama Adopted by Family in Marietta, Georgia 11/6/05 |
Comments: We had to leave home because of flooding. our house is really not livable but because we have not where to go we are staying in it. FEMA will not help us because they sat that the home owner has applied. All of our furniture got mess-up. |
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Randolph Family of 5 ID # 125 Mother - Age 38 Children - 1 boy 19, 3 girls 10, 5 & 3 Originally from Prichard, Alabama Adopted by University of California Santa Cruz Student Volunteer Connection in Santa Cruz, CA 11/22/05 |
Comments: We had to leave home because of flooding. had alot of damaged to personal property and car. |
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Wendt Family of 3 ID # 126 Mother - Age 45 Father - Age 60 Children - 1 boy 12 Originally from Saucier, Mississippi Adopted by Family in Sterling, Virginia 11/18/05 |
Comments: We lived in a mobile home. The roof was destroyed. We evacuated for 4 days until the threat of the storm was over. And assistance you can provide will be deeply appreciated. |
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J. James Family of 7 ID # 127 Mother - Age 37 Father - Age 36 Children - 4 boys 15 & 15, 14, 8, 1 girl 6 Originally from Hattiesburg, Mississippi Adopted by Dustin Construction Company in Gaithersburg, MD 12/1/05 |
Comments: Had to evacuate at the last minute due to pine trees that started coming around down by our home. without electricity and water for about a month. live in a home now but having to start all over due to loss of everything. God bless each and everyone. |
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D. James Family of 7 ID # 128 Mother - Age 48 Father - Age 49 Children - 3 boys 22, 20 & 18, 2 girls 3 & 2 Originally from Theodore, Alabama Adopted by Dance Craze Gymnastics & Cheer in Washington, Missouri 11/30/05 |
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Terry Family of 6 ID # 129 Mother - Age 30 Father - Age 31 Children - 2 boys 13 & 7, 2 girls 12 & 5 Originally from Gulfport, Mississippi Adopted by Wachovia
Corporation |
Comments: I evacuated my children and another family with five children. My husband and I stayed behind because there was not enough room. We felt the children's lives were more important. We gave our vehicle, credit cards, money, a blank check and food to a friend with no means of getting out. She went to Ga with them. After a week of them being gone I ran out of money and maxed all my cards. They had to return. I had two business lost. So we now have very little money coming in. We went 4 days without water and food. We stayed in the home during the storm and watched roofs fly by and trees through the house. The children just started school and now are going to another one. Our home is missing half the roof and lately we have woke up cold. FEMA has not yet given us any assistance. A church group is coming put a roof on our home Monday finally. We can finally wash off all the bug spray. There are many people worse off than we are. I hope they are number one on the list. Still my children do not need to suffer more than they have. They do not need to think Santa Clause has abandoned them at a time like this. I just want my kids to be comfortable and feel as normal as possible. I am hoping someone can help that possible. Maybe by then FEMA will have helped and I can pay my bills and worry about presents. For now I have to keep our lights and heat on and with no money the three months of utilities bills just keep piling up. God bless all that has opened there hearts, lives and homes to those of us in need. Without the individuals helping the coast would have suffered worse. |
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Shaver Family of 4 ID # 130 Mother - Age 22 Father - Age 25 Children - 1 boy 3, 1 girl 15 months Originally from Lacombe, Louisiana Adopted by a family
in |
Comments: We left the sat. before the hurricane and headed to Little Rock, AR. we have been here ever since. our house had min. damage but we were renting and the landlord wont fix it so we cant go back home. all of our things are down there and have no way of getting it up here. we plan on staying here in little rock for a long time. |
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Bowman Family of 1 ID # 131 Mother - Age 20 Originally from Metairie, Louisiana Adopted by a family
in |
Comments: Me and my boyfriend (at the time) evacuated the Sunday before the hurricane. We left to my mothers home in Florida at 2 a.m. just to beat the traffic. It worked. We were able to go back to Metairie to gather the few things that were not molded, just some pictures and my skillets. (I'm a true southerner - I refused to leave them no matter how nasty they were) We then drove to Fort Collins in Colorado b/c his family lives there. The Red Cross helped is find a place to live until Nov. 1st. Now - it's just me and I am trying to move to Colorado Springs to go to college. It's kind of hard b/c I don't know anything or anyone in this state, but I have obtained an apartment. I have nothing to put in it, but it has nice new carpet. I don't really enjoy the cold weather here and am not looking forward to dealing with the snow. I miss my humidity and I don't like having dry skin!! But I have to look on the bright side of everything - I'm still alive and at least I have my skillets! ;) God bless and thank everyone for all their prayers, it really does help. |
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Alexander Family of 3 ID # 132 Mother - Age 49 Father - Age 58 Daughter - Age 25 Originally from Fort Worth, Texas Adopted by a family in Sterling, Virginia 11/18/05 |
Comments: Totally devastating and stressful. This was a very sad life experience to loose all of your life's possessions and jobs that you were established on for years. But through prayer and all of the love and support from so many we will rebuild and every thing we lost will be restored. Each day we will walk by faith...looking to God as our source and strength!!! Thanking you in advance for your generosity! |
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Monroe Family of 6 ID # 133 Mother - Age 29 Father - Age 26 Children - 2 boys 5 & 2, 1 girl 10 Father's Brother - Age 19 Un-adopted - Unable to reach family |
Comments: It was unbelievable, there trees everywhere, houses torn apart, a lot of snakes, debris. i had to live in a shelter for 2 in a half months with my wife and kids, sometimes we would miss meals because they only served for 1 hour and they so many people to feed. I had to walk through chest high water with my kids and wife. it was just too much for the human eye to see!! I'm very grateful for you all!!!! |
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Williams Family of 7 ID # 134 Mother - Age 43 Children - 3 boys 18, 13 & 1, 3 girls 21, 20, & 15 Originally from Irvington, Alabama Adopted by a family
in |
Comments: We were told to evacuate but we chose to ride it out. The children were terrified as the water began to come through the ceilings the winds began to blow so hard that my daughter put the recliner against the door. water ran down the wall from under the light sight, Thank God the electricity was out!!! Everyone in my house is sick from were the mold and mild was. My Medicaid visits have run out. I'm still sick. |
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Robinson Family of 4 ID # 135 Mother - Age 44 Father - Age 47 Children - 1 boy 17, 1 girl 7 Originally from Harvey, Louisiana Adopted by a family in Dallas, TX 11/24/05 |
Comments: We left New Orleans Sunday morning at 9AM drove in gridlock traffic for 8 hours to Baton Rouge. We did not have anyplace to stay. we finally found friends to stay with before the storm hit. The friends had a power outage so they could not put us up. we tracked down family. they could only allow us to stay for a few days. then we went to Lake Charles stayed in a hotel. then I found my daughter who was missing. she was with her father who did not tell me their whereabouts. then we went to Arlington and lived in a hotel for 3 weeks. found an apartment in fort worth. We need help with household items and credit repair. We filed bankruptcy just before Katrina and it was dismissed because we could not pay the payments. the damaged house may be in foreclosure, and my car (Americredit) people are trying to repo my car. This is so hard to concentrate on the future when the creditors are giving you a chance to make good on payments. |
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Blanks Family of 7 ID # 136 Mother - Age 30 Children - 3 boys 15, 9 & 7, 3 girls 12, 10 & 8 Originally from Mobile, Alabama Adopted by family in
Exeter, New Hampshire |
Comments: My home had a tree come through the side of the house forcing us to move and while leaving home i went threw water and it killed my motor so thats my story and i have six kids. thank you and were blessed thank you. |
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Belcher Family of 4 ID # 137 Mother - Age 27 Father - Age 30 Children - 2 boys 4 & 6 weeks Originally from Moss Point, Mississippi Adopted by family in
Mt. Pleasant, SC |
Comments: Had to stay at the hospital shelter, we lost everything. had my baby the Friday after the storm now staying in two bedroom apartment with 8 family members. Thank you to every one who is helping. |
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Kerley
Family of 2 ID # 138 Wife - Age 38 Husband - Age 37 Originally from Biloxi, Mississippi Adopted by Family in Cincinnati, Ohio 11/4/05 |
Comments: In May 2005 My fiancé and I just bought a beautiful house that seemed made for us in a very safe neighborhood (his former house was in an unsafe neighborhood. I had went through a devastating divorce 3 yrs ago and had to start my whole household from scratch, got myself in debt doing this, met a wonderful man who asked me to marry him in Feb. Right before he met me he was working 2 jobs to pay off all his credit card bills. We were finally on our feet after alot of hard work!! The Sat before the storm we made the decision to evacuate to my sis in Destin after we got off work (I worked at The Isle, he at The Grand) and so we did. We thought we might get some roof damage and maybe a little water as we were 1 mile from the bay, elevated 11 ft above sea level, and our house elevated another 4 ft on concrete pilings. I looked at my photo albums on the entertainment center considering whether to take them...I didn't. We each packed a bag of clothes, got our Min Pin Xander and food for him and headed to Destin. On early Mon morn, I was only able to get text messages through, and heard from a friend of mine that stayed at the beginning of my subdivision (Poteau Bay) that they saw and heard tornados touching down and then had to go to the 2nd floor b/c water was coming into the house, then nothing. On the news they'd say "MS Gulf Coast devastated...but back to New Orleans". It was frustrating!! At 7pm that night a friend text me saying that Leslie had seen my house. I asked her how it was, but she couldn't get a message back through. Finally at 3am she was able to text me. I asked about my house. She replied "Leslie can see through your walls" I started crying and crying. Even though it was just material possessions, it was stuff that we both worked hard for. I saw my house a week later. Every home in my subdivision was either badly damaged or destroyed. The shell of my house is the only thing that MAY be salvageable as the builder 9 yrs ago filled the outer walls w/ concrete....the brick house next to mine was crumbled. Since then we went to Vegas to try to find work, but very little there plus I was majorly depressed being away from my family, friends, and my daughters (both are 19, and The Isle opened their hotel to FEMA, etc so we could come back and be volunteer workers to keep our job when we reopen the casino in the hotel in late Dec so we came back. My fiancé got a job in Lake Charles but we get to see each other on the weekends. Bad news: ins co is saying its all flood. Worse news, our agent didn't advise us that the flood policy was onlyy$100,000 (our house cost $145,000 which would mean that we'd still owe $45000 on our mortgage) and NO contents coverage. We thought the flood policy would mirror the homeowners which covered the full mortgage amount and up to $107,000 for contents. So now we are out of $50,000 of contents and have to start all over plus may be in debt for a house we cannot live in. We don't want a handout...we need a hand-up. We got a little ray of light this week as the Lutheran Church in OS had volunteers that would gut my house for free!! They are college students that came today and are very special people!! Jackson Co said they'd clear all debris from our land by the Army Corps....that's wonderful b/c we have 4-5 ft of debris covering the front yard, side yard, and back yard. All of the "debris" is walls, belongings, etc from some of my 12 neighbors houses that are gone. We'd appreciate any help we could get from clothes to appliances, towels, furniture for when we do get to rebuild. Thank you and God Bless you! |
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McQueen Family of 2 ID # 139 Mother - Age 21 Children - 1 boy, 2 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Family in
Dolores, Colorado |
Comments: I was scared it was something i had never experience before, i just was very scared for me and my son but all i could do is pray and thank God that i survive the storm because many people didn't and i just thank god for his mercy and love. I just thank god for every one who is helping us in need and i hope that god bless them. |
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Waldrop Family of 3 ID # 140 Mother - Age 41 Children - 2 girls 2 & 7 months Originally from Ocean Springs, Mississippi Adopted by Family in Cleveland, Ohio 10/28/05 |
Comments: When the mandatory evacuation was issued we left our home, leaving it in the hands of God. Scared, as were most people of what was to come. We thought if our home is gone we will ask for the strength to start over, if not we will be forever grateful. We are forever grateful. God be with us all. God Bless You and Yours. Thank You. |
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Phelps
Family of 3 ID # 141 Mother - Age 37 Children - 1 boy10, 1 girl 11 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Family in
Manchester, Connecticut |
Comments: I left during the evacuation before the storm hit. I have lost everything. MY mobile house is gone. so is my car. |
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Knapp Family of 2 ID # 142 Female - Age 45 Female Roommate - Age 40 Originally from Biloxi, Mississippi Adopted by a family
in |
Comments: We left for hurricane, went back to nothing, a shell of a house with a foot of, what I guess you would call mud. It was absolutely horrible, it looked like a war zone. Everyone talks about New Orleans when the Gulfport-Biloxi area is unrecognizable. Any donation would be appreciated. |
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Cline Family
of 5 ID # 143 Mother - Age 35 Children - 1 boy 13, 3 girls 17, 16 & 14 Originally from Gulf Port, Mississippi Adopted by a Family
in San Mateo, CA |
Comments: I took my family to the shelter the night before Katrina. We are currently in our 3rd shelter location. We hope to be relocated within the next month if all arrangements can be made. I hope that we will be relocated soon. I have decided to use the words of my daughter as written for an assignment at the new school where we are temporarily staying. " One day, little over two weeks ago, I was watching the weather channel only to find out that category five hurricane was heading straight for my small trailer. My mother told me to get my three younger siblings and myself three sets of clothing to take to the nearest shelter after she got home from work. The next day, as I walked out the door, I took one last look at all the worldly possessions that wouldn't fit into the car. I never suspected that something more sinister was about to take them all away. The shelter turned out to be a high school. There was no air conditioning, water, ice, limited electricity, it was over-crowed, nothing to eat, no privacy, and noisy beyond belief. I had no idea what had happened, my friends, family or anyone I cared about. My mother and I took turns staying up night and day to make sure no one stole what little possessions we had. There was a lot of strange people who seemed to always have their eyes on our things, my family or me. The day after the hurricane, my mother went to see what was left. She came back a mere half hour later, and with tear-stained face told us that the only thing she could find was some soggy pieces of insulation stuck in the trees and bushes. I cried a little from the loss, then I overheard that there where buses coming to take whoever wanted to go to another shelter in Robertsdale, Alabama. They said that there was electricity, water and food. After we talked over with the rest of my family, we decided to leave. Many of the other people left, but some stayed for their own reasons. The buses took us to a civic center and from there a pastor of a local church decided to take us in, that took incredible kindness and trust to take in five people-who hadn't showered in about a week-and bring them into their place of worship. But my family wasn't the only ones they took in. They brought in thirty other people as well. taking in one stranger has many risks, now multiply that by thirty and add feeding them, clothing them and helping the children with their needs and get them in school. I was astonished at all the kindness that these people had." These words written by my daughter which she titled "Kindness" earned her an A for the assignment. It in a small way describes some of things we have faced so far. I am fully aware that this is only the beginning and there is a very long road ahead of us. The people that took us in have been really great and we are truly grateful and I know we are welcomed. But I find it necessary to look ahead. We really like the area we are in now, but the magnitude of evacuees in this and the surrounding towns have made the possibility of finding any type of long term housing non existent. We have discussed it and have decided to try and relocate. I would like to find a small community where we can get a new start. Educational resources are a priority as my children are A students with honors on both the local and national level. I hope that there is a community out there that would be willing to help and guide us as we pick up the pieces and try to make a new start. |
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Richerson Family of 6 ID # 144 Mother - Age 24 Father - Age 23 Children - 1 boy 6, 3 girls 8, 3 & 6 months Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Family in
Breckenridge, Colorado |
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Michel
Family of 6 ID # 145 Mother - Age 39 Father - Age 37 Children - 2 boys 20 & 2, 2 girls 14 & 5 Originally from St. Bernard, Louisiana Adopted by: |
Comments: It was very stressful! We really had no clue as to where we were going to go. We had very little money. We sat in traffic for hours, maybe just to go a couple of blocks. We were having trouble with our brakes before we started our journey, but had no choice but to chance it. Well along the way the brakes went out completely. We had to abandon the van right there and only had the clothes on our backs. We luckily got a ride. We had 5 adults and 4 children in a little Corsica. We rode for about another 7 hours like this. Well on our way we needed gas, after a long ride and finally finding a gas station; state troopers turned us away. Just to go maybe a mile or so and then running out of gas. So at this time, we are stuck on the side of the road until 2 of the adults walked to find the next gas station. Finally, back on the road. The children were tired, hungry and miserable. After about another 3 hours we made it to Baton Rouge, La. We managed to get a hotel room there, but had to leave after 2 days; we had no more money. So then we find our way to a Baptist Church in Lafayette. Myself and my children all took ill, plus they were out their daily medicine for bipolar and adhd so I had to go sit through the emergency room for countless hours. We stay at the church shelter for about 2 days, things were really bad there. I call my sister who was in Alexandria. She said, we could come stay in her hotel room. With no car or money, we finally found a ride from Lafayette to Alexandria. We got there late that night, only to wake up the next morning to find out she went back home. So therefore we had to leave because we had no money. So once again, we had to find a ride. I spoke with my brother, who was still at the hotel we were originally at. He said that Red Cross was going to pay for the rooms so he held one until I made it there. That was Sept.8 and we are still here today. We still aren't getting much help from anyone. I have no transportation or money, so it is really hard to pay for someone to watch my little one or to go try to work, even get my children to much needed doctor appointments.. I think if I had a vehicle I know if I did, I would be able to go out and help myself and my family get/find the things we need to start our life's again. I'm trying to hang in there the best I can for my children's sake, but I must say it is very, very hard. Can you please call me or email me if you know you can possibly help out in any way. Even if it is just for the three small children. Little Dave, Arianna & Corinne that's who needs it and I worry about the little ones the most, because they have already had so much devastation and their most precious things in their lives lost. I thank you. And I PRAY & HOPE that someone will adopt my family. Thank You! May God Bless All Of You and Have a very Blessed Day. |
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Bone Family of 4 ID # 146 Mother - Age 38 Father - Age 39 Children - 2 boys 15 & 14 Originally from Van Cleave, Mississippi Adopted by Family in Brooklyn, New York 11/2/05 |
Comments: We evacuated to Pensacola, Florida and spent over $2,500 with hotel costs, gas and food to remain evacuated until power came back on at home. We need to get our roof done, but can't afford it yet. We are existing, but have no extra money for Christmas. |
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Johns Family of 3 ID # 147 Mother - Age 24 Children - 2 girls 6 & 2 Originally from Long Beach, Mississippi Adopted by Family in Monument, Colorado 10/27/05 |
Comments: Wow, well it began the day before the hurricane and we evacuated to a friends in Louisiana. We watched the news all day and night until the storm hit and wonder and prayed that our homes were ok. We also prayed for my brother whom stayed for the storm and survived it. My children and I lost our home and my mother and step dad lost there home and so did my brother. We found that out about 4 days after the storm, it was a devastating sight. I am a single mother of 2 girls, I have been going to school for along time trying to get my nursing degree, this storm put me back a whole semester so I have about a year and a half to go. I always work as a tech at the hospital to support my family, but have been unable to work because I cannot find a sitter. My kids daycare was completely gone. But it is rough now but I know it will all pass, it will get better, god has assured me of that. I have been volunteering on the south side of the railroad tracks all along the beach from long beach, Ms to Biloxi, Ms helping clean up. This is my home and I love this place and I will do whatever it takes to get it back again. I currently reside at a friend of mines house in a 3 bed 2 bath with 13 of us hurricane victims here, I thank her everyday. I am waiting on a FEMA trailer so my girls and I will have something of our own, but that is taking alot of time. I want to thank everyone who has been so kind, helpful and good -hearted to everyone on the coast we thank you all and love you all. God Bless You All. I want to thank everyone again for all there Prayers, it means the world to us coast residents. |
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McKeller Family of 3 ID # 148 Mother - Age 72 Children - 1 son 43, 1 daughter 25 Originally from Mobile, Alabama Adopted by University of California Santa Cruz Student Volunteer Connection in Santa Cruz, CA 11/22/05 |
Comments: Back porch water came in home and tree blew in car. Any help will be appreciated because i am on a fixed income and my husband is deceased thanks. |
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Bolden Family of 2 ID # 149 Mother - Age 41 Children - 1 girl - 16 Originally from Gretna, Louisiana Adopted by a Family in Wolf Point, Montana 11/7/05 |
Comments: WE HAD DECIDED NOT TO LEAVE UNTIL MY MOM CALLED 4:30 SUNDAY MORNING AND SAID DANA YOU ALL HAVE TO LEAVE. THE HURRICANE HAS BECOME A 5. I IMMEDIATELY WOKE MY DAUGHTER AND PREPARED HER FOR A ROAD TRIP. EVERYONE WAS IN PANIC. WE HEADED FOR HOUSTON AND THEN WE MADE A U-TURN. MY FRIEND HAD COME TO HER SENSES AND DECIDED THAT SHE WOULD NOT RIDE OUT THE STORM. SO I WENT TO THE ST. BERNARD HOUSING PROJECT TO PICK HER UP. WE WERE TRAVELING IN A SEDAN. ME, MY DAUGHTER, BROTHER AND MY BEST FRIEND. INCLUDING FOOD AND CLOTHES FOR A COUPLE OF DAYS. THE TRAFFIC WAS SO HORRENDOUS THAT THERE WAS NO WAY WE WOULD MAKE IT TO HOUSTON IN TIME. SO WE HEADED TO MISSISSIPPI. WHEN WE WERE FINALLY BLESSED TO FIND A HOTEL, WE CAMPED OUT THERE UNTIL WEDNESDAY. WE THEN HEADED FOR DONALDSONVILLE, LOUISIANA TO STAY WITH MY UNCLE BECAUSE HOTEL FEE WERE TOO EXPENSIVE AND THE OWNERS WEREN'T GIVING US ANY SYMPATHY. WE WERE IN DONALDSONVILLE FOR A WEEK, LIVING WITH 13 OTHER PEOPLE IN A 2 BEDROOM HOUSE WITH ONE BATHROOM. IF YOU EVER NEEDED A CLOSE KNIT FAMILY THIS WAS THE TIME. THERE WASN'T A DULL MOMENT WITH SOMEONE AT ANY GIVEN TIME BREAKING DOWN. WE ALL SUPPORTED ONE ANOTHER AND EACH OTHER TO MAKE A DECISION OF WHERE DO THEY GO FROM HERE. MY FRIEND AND I DECIDED THAT WE WOULD MAKE OUR NEW LIVES IN GEORGIA. |
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Theophile Family of 3 ID # 150 Mother - Age 30 Children - 2 girls 12 & 9 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Four Winds Ranch in Marysville, Washington 11/11/05 |
Comments: ON SUNDAY MORNING THE KIDS WERE PICKED UP BY THEIR FATHER. THE LAST THING THEY TOLD ME WAS THAT THEY LOVED ME AND BE CAREFUL. I WENT TO THE STORE TO LOAD UP ON HURRICANE FOOD AND WATER. I WAS NOT WORRIED AT ALL. THE MAYOR CAME ON AND DID HIS ROUTINE SPEECH BEFORE A STORM. MUCH TO MY DISMAY, I DID NOT LIKE WHAT HE SAID. "EMBRACE YOURSELF CAUSE THIS ONE IS COMING FOR US." I IMMEDIATELY BEGAN TO MAKE PHONE CALLS. I KNEW THERE WAS NO WAY MY CAR WOULD MAKE IT ANYWHERE SAFE. BECAUSE THE PHONES WERE SO BOGGED DOWN, I WAS ONLY ABLE TO GET THROUGH TO ONE FRIEND. SHE WAS ON HER WAY TO HOUSTON. I TOLD HER I WAS AFRAID AND DID NOT WANT TO STAY HERE. AN ANGEL SENT HER TO ME. MY GRANDMOTHER WAS NOT SO LUCKY. SHE DECIDED TO RIDE IT OUT. AND BECAUSE SHE HAD NO TRANSPORTATION SHE WITNESSED THE FLOODING AT FIRST HAND. I WAS ABLE TO TALK TO HER UP UNTIL MONDAY EVENING. THEN THE PHONES WENT DOWN AND THERE WAS MANHEIM. I FINALLY LOCATED HER IN THE HOUSTON ASTRODOME. BUT NOW SHE'S MISSING AGAIN, SINCE RITA HAS HIT. I WAS FINALLY REUNITED WITH MY KIDS A WEEK AFTER THE STORM HIT. WE DIDN'T KNOW WHAT TO THINK. THEY THOUGHT I WAS STILL IN THE ST. BERNARD HOUSING PROJECT AND THEY WOULD HAVE TO PLAN MY FUNERAL. WE WERE ALL OVERJOYED TO SEE EACH OTHER AGAIN. I RECENTLY RETURNED HOME TO FIND MY HOUSE IN DISARRAY. LOOKING AT THE WATER LINE HALFWAY UP THE WALL, I IMAGINED WHAT WOULD I HAVE DONE IF I WOULD HAVE STAYED! THANK YOU JESUS! |
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Hatch Family of 3 ID # 151 Mother - Age 30 Children - 1 boy 11, 1 girl 13 Originally from Van Cleave, Mississippi Adopted by a Family in Newbury Park, California 11/6/05 |
Comments: Left before storm, have extensive roof, electrical and water damage. Any help would be greatly appreciated. |
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Grall Family of 2 ID #152 Wife - Age 52 Husband - Age 57 Originally from Slidell, Louisiana Adopted by a family
in |
Comments: Home, vehicles and business totally destroyed. Staying temporarily with son in Arkansas. Looking to possibly move to San Antonio and restart business and start all over. |
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Brister Family of 3 ID # 153 Mother - Age 37 Children - 1 boy 3, 1 girl 3 Originally from Biloxi, Mississippi Adopted by Family in Gettysburg, PA 10/27/05 |
Comments: Stayed with sister a couple of days, roof caved in, left homeless, went to a shelter in Gulfport, and came to Kentucky. Thank you and may God bless you all! |
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Ladener Family of 6 ID # 154 Mother - Age 32 Father - Age 34 Grandmother - Age 52 Children - 3 girls 15, 11 & 5 Originally from Biloxi, Mississippi Adopted by Family in Gansevoort, New York 10/27/05 |
Comments: I am
sending this in for my daughter and her family. They lived in Eagle
Point one of the worst areas effected in Katrina. They found nothing of
there home when we returned. a beautiful two story home built 14ft up on
columns. And when we were allowed back into the neighborhood ,we climbed
over piles of debris that was once homes of their neighbors homes and
found an empty slab, as if there was never a home there. It was
the most devastating thing a young family ,or for that matter anyone
should ever go through.16 years of building for there children's future
and In one day it was all taken away from them , And here it is 2 months
since the storm hit and they can't get any answer from There insurance
or FEMA .Its almost Christmas and they have ,no home ,very few cloths
and no answers on when or if they will get anything from the insurance
or FEMA . the flood issue which is holding everybody in limbo. But
how do you explain that to Children ,who don't even understand why god
let this happen to there home? Please consider them for help Thank You My daughter ,doesn't know that I am doing this ,But it broke my heart when she sat and cried , and said Mom I just want to go away ,and forget about Christmas , I don't think I will be able to bare to watch my girls go through this . How can I tell them we are not going to be able to have Christmas this year. And I don't have the money to make it happen for them. I wish I did . |
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Triplett Family of 5 ID # 155 Mother - Age 33 Father - Age 41 Children - 3 girls 13, 4 & 3 Originally from Moss Point, Mississippi Adopted by Good Foods Grocery in Richmond, Virginia 11/14/05 |
Comments: We actually stayed with my mom-in-law during the storm so we could all be together. During the storm our neighbors came banging on the door asking for shelter because the water came in; I couldn't believe it, then she said our home had water also. We tried to get back to our home after the storm, but were unable to due to the water coming to our waist. This was such a devastation because we don't live in a flood zone so we had no flood insurance. We never thought the water would come in, we lost a lot of clothes, long dresses, shoes, toys, appliances, furniture. We still have not gotten our home back in order. We have been with my mom-in-law since the night before the storm, August 28, 2005. I thank God for family and friends that have come to our aid since the storm and for keeping us alive during this tragedy. I thank you in advance for your support. |
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Poole Family of 4 ID # 156 Mother - Age 38 Children - 1 girl 14 Grandmother - Age 58 Neice - Age 3 Originally from Gulf Port, Mississippi Adopted by NetComm
Solutions, Inc. |
Comments: We evacuated to Jacksonville, Fl. then to Southaven, Ms. While en-route to Southaven, my mother's car broke down and we had to rent a car to get back to Gulfport Ms. Upon arrival we discovered our home extremely damaged and unlivable. We have changed our living arrangements three times (family members). Thank you! |
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Johnson Family of 4 ID # 157 Mother - Age 49 Children - 1 boy 12, 2 girls 18 & 15 Originally from Prichard, Alabama Adopted by the Women
in Business Students Association in |
Comments: ITS WAS ALRIGHT BECAUSE I WENT TO A FRIEND HOUSE A TREE FELL ON TOP OF MY HOUSE WENT THE LIGHT CAME BACK ON MESS UP MY APPLIANCES IT COULD HAVE BEEN WORSE BUT THE LORD HAD HIS ARMS AROUND US AND WE WERE BLESSED. |
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Evans Family of 8 ID # 158 Mother - Age 51 Father - Age 55 Daughter - Age 26, Grandsons 2, 3, & 22 months Great Grandmother - Age 72 Sister - Age 25 Originally from Mobile, Alabama Adopted by the Flute Section, Marching Chiefs in Tallahassee, Florida 11/14/05 |
Comments: We did not leave in time so we were stuck without power and medical need for many days. My wife got sick because of the mold growing in our house. She was in the hospital for a week. I am disable because of back problems and now because of the hurricane my wife is out of work. We are now have a hard time making ends meet. But I know with God on our side every thing will work out. |
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Keeler Family of 4 ID # 159 Mother - Age 48 Father - Age 48 Children - 2 girls 14 & 15 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Good
Foods Grocery in Richmond, Virginia |
Comments: I left before storm but went back and lost everything. |
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Maberry Family of 2 ID # 160 Mother - Age 24 Daughter - Age 3 Originally from Hammond, Louisiana Adopted by Family in Carrollton, Georgia 11/4/05 |
Comments: The inside of the house was ruined due to some sewage problems after the hurricane. While staying at a hotel with friends our home was looted and damaged. Thank you for all your help, may God continue to watch over all us us during these trying times. |
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Stephanie Family of 3 ID # 161 Mother - Age 28 Children - 2 girls 9 & 6 Originally from Hammond, Louisiana Adopted by a Church in Stanley, Wisconsin 11/7/05 |
Comments: A tree fell on our trailer causing damage to one of my daughters rooms so we went to my moms for a while. We are in a new trailer at this time but things are hard. We are together and out of harms way. It is hard to get back on track with 2 children and little income so any blessing is better than none. May God bless everyone affected by Katrina or Rita. |
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DeHarde Family of 3 ID # 162 Mother - Age 30 Father - Age 31 Children - 1 girl 2 Originally from Chalmette, Louisiana Adopted by Family in
Moorestown, NJ |
Comments: On Friday before the storm took the turn to us we were on a camping trip with friends in Hammond Louisiana. Saturday morning we found out about the storms turn and it was already too late to go home to get anything. All we had was one bag of clothing for us. We went to stay with friends in Southaven Ms and a couple weeks ago got an apartment there. A couple weeks ago my husband went home to see the damage and well we still had about 3 feet of dry sewage and mud in our house. Nothing was able to be saved. Now we are trying to make ends meet with alot less income we had and the cost of living is a bit more here also. But we are trying hard to make this hard times easy for our 2 year old daughter. GOD BLESS YOU ALL you have no idea what wonderful angels you have become to so many of us. |
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Harness Family of 4 ID # 163 Mother - Age 25 Father - Age 21 Children - 2 girls 7 & 2 Originally from Jefferson, Louisiana Adopted by Good Foods Grocery in Richmond, Virginia 11/14/05 |
Comments: We stayed during the storm had to walk from Jefferson parish to New Orleans which is about 10 miles to the superdome for assistance. The night of the storm was a long and hot one, the next night we stayed in our apt. with no lights the insects ate our entire body up. we finally decided not to just set back and wait and we all walk to safety, thank God Please assist us with what ever. It's going to take us months to get our lives back together. |
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Glaser Family of 3 ID # 164 Mother - Age 40 Children - 2 girls 2 & 8 Originally from Slidell, Louisiana Adopted by a family
in |
Comments: I was rescued by the Southern Baptist TN relief disaster team. I was brought to Huntingdon TN and set up at the Huntingdon housing area. I have become a member of the First Baptist Church in Huntingdon. I am volunteering by helping abused women and children. FEMA and Red Cross have done nothing to help relocate or get any financial assistance so and far. I just pray that God gives my little boy a great Christmas. We lost everything in the flood. That town was hit really hard and all the toys and clothes where lost. I would like a washer and dryer and would love a Sponge bob TV and Sponge bob DVD player for kids. Christmas is for the children. Thanks and God bless you this holiday season |
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Butler Family of 1 ID # 165 Female - Age 43 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by University of Santa Cruz Student Volunteer Connection in Santa Cruz, CA 11/22/05 |
Comments: I was airlifted from the roof of the Salvation Army in New Orleans. And flown by Army plane to Kelly Air Force base in san Antonio, TX. The apt I lived in in New Orleans was under about 6' foot of water and I lost everything I owned. I stayed in the Salvation Army about 5 days after Hurricane Katrina with no power, no working plumbing, barely any food, with the windows on one side of the building blown out by the wind. During the day, it was at least 90 degrees in the building: We finally were able to remove some of the windows after the storm was over to get some air inside the building. |
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Velasquez Family of 4 ID # 166 Mother - Age 37 Father - Age 50 Children - 1 boy 15 & 1 girl 7 Originally from Gretna, Louisiana Adopted by Family in Shoreham, New York 11/05/05 |
Comments: We evacuated on the day before the hurricane, with my 2 cats in our small Camry, it took us 4 hrs to drive out of New Orleans and we stopped at a hotel for the night in Meridian Alabama. We got to N.C. that Monday at 5:30 pm. We came here, because we were living pay check to pay check and couldn't afford a hotel room. My husband's friend offered us a room in his 2 bedroom house. We were there 2 wks and I could not take it any more. The house didn't have a shower, and only one bathroom, located in this man's bedroom. The house was dirty and my cats became sick, besides we were all 4 of us and 2 cats in one bedroom, sleeping on the floor. The red cross gave us vouchers for bedding, and some clothes, and then housing and food. The city gave us a house to live in when I informed them of our conditions. I knew I couldn't go back to my home, because of the garbage and mold, so I had to adjust to living here. So this is our home now, and we are beginning to adjust. I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for any help that is offered. |
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Coleman Family of 5 ID # 167 Mother - Age 33 Father - Age 33 Children - 3 girls 11, 7 & 1 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Family in |
Comments: We evacuated the day before Katrina. I worked at a transitional housing facility in New Orleans that housed HIV/AIDS victims. I had to make sure all my clients were placed in safe places before I left, so we weren't able to leave until the very day before the Hurricane. There was so much traffic. Traveling with a one year old, 7 year old, and 11 year old, who had to "use it" every hour of the 17 hour trip was challenging. What I don't understand is how the so called "middle class" people can't get very much assistance. Yes, I think the government should look out for those who have nothing, don't get me wrong. But what about us? All my life, I've worked hard in school, working 2 jobs to pay my way through Grad school. My husband and I finally received our Master degrees and bought a house. Then KATRINA!! We have nothing. No jobs, no house to return to because of circumstances, We're too "educated" to need assistance (according to many of the government programs) and too poor to even purchase toys for Christmas at this point. We are caught up in the system unfortunately. In one day, we went from middle class to lower class. Our lives have changed, but we are still happy because we are one of the lucky ones to have not lost our children, mothers, fathers, or any immediate relatives!!! God blessed us!!!It would be so nice if I could give my 3 children a nice Christmas!! They are really good children. My oldest and youngest were both born on the same day--Valentines Day. And they are all a huge part of my heart! My middle child even told me--mom-don't worry about paying me allowance anymore...Keep it and put it in your piggy bank.... |
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Williams Family of 4 ID # 168 Mother - Age 50 Son - Age 23 Children - 1 boy 7 & 1 girl 15 Originally from Prichard, Louisiana Adopted by University of Santa Cruz Student Volunteer Connection in Santa Cruz, CA 11/22/05 |
Comments: My bed rooms were flooded, the refrigerator stopped working because of a power surge when the lights came back on and all the food spoiled. |
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Lougue Family of 4 ID # 169 Mother - Age 28 Son - Age 29 Children - 2 boys 9, 5 Originally from Arabi, Louisiana Adopted by Family in
London, Ontario |
Comments: From hotel to hotel to small apartment has been a very hectic and nerve racking experience. Just want a place for me and my family to call home!!! |
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Brown Family of 3 ID # 170 Mother - Age 37 Children - 1 boy 2 & 1 girl - 1 Originally from Harvey, Louisiana Adopted by Family in
San Diego, California |
Comments: I am a good friend of Earnest Brown. She doesn't know how to use a computer so I decided to put her and her children on the list with her permission. She and her children stayed threw Hurricane Katrina because she had no money or car. She said it was the worst thing that has ever happened to her. She swam with her children to higher grown. She had to loot stores to feed her children and get diapers. No one came for 5 days to rescue her. She stayed at someone's apt. and had no water or lights. Then finally help came and brought her to a shelter. She is now staying at a drug and alcohol treatment center for women with children because she is a recovering alcoholic and addict. They have provided her with her own apartment there furnished and with food but, she will not be able to provide her children with a Christmas this year because she has lost everything and has to start over. It would be a miracle if someone can help them thank you and God bless you. |
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Linda Family of 2 ID # 171 Female - Age 39 Male - Age 37 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by a family in Ocean City, MD 11/24/05 |
Comments: We stayed in New Orleans through the storm. Our rental home was fine and we had no water in the house. The following day, the water began to rise in the street and we had to wade out to where our car was parked. We had to leave our pets behind because we could not carry them all. We ended up in Galveston, Texas for 3 weeks. At that point, we were hit with another mandatory evacuation. We had to drive 400 miles to the next closest available hotel in Eagle Pass, Texas. After a week, we made it closer to home, to New Braunfels, Texas. Finally, after 6 weeks in exile, we were allowed to come back into our zip code on October 2nd. We had heard many news reports that our part of town was mostly intact and did NOT flood. Much to our shock, we came home to find that a tidal wave had crashed through our front window and destroyed most of our belongings. About a week later, our landlord decided to throw out our remaining (some dry or repairable) belongings, which was against State law at the time. We are fortunate that 3 of our 4 pets have been returned to us, but I also lost my job due to the storm. We are still looking for a reasonably-priced apartment in which to live. FEMA has given us absolutely zero financial aid. It also turns out that my renter's insurance policy will not cover any of my losses. My boyfriend's hours at his job have been cut in half as well. Gift certificates to Wal-Mart or Eddie Bauer would be a tremendous help. Also, assistance in paying any of my $1,000 in veterinary bills would be a Godsend. |
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Ainsworth Family of 3 ID # 172 Mother - Age 30 Father - Age 37 Children - 1 girl - 6 Originally from Picayune, Mississippi Adopted by Family in |
Comments: The waters start rising early that Monday morning. It woke us up Myself and my daughter. so we went down the street where water wasn't and stayed with those people til finally three days later the main road was partially cleared . the whole time there was no good water no water to flush toilets no electric to cook with no stores open, bad smells. we ourselves had to live like complete animals! If I could have one wish I would wish to never never never go through that AGAIN! I would like you to focus on my daughter who seems distant now and sometimes tell me she wants to go home. |
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Romero Family of 3 ID # 173 Mother - Age 23 Children - 1 boy - 1, 2 girls - 4 & 3 Originally from Slidell, Louisiana Adopted by Family in
Gilbert, Arizona |
Comments: We left a day before the hurricane. The father of my kids decided to stay behind, I was real upset that he made that decision. He stayed in Slidell, La He later met us in Texas 1wk after. I was so happy we were together again so were our kids. We got our new apartment down here and 2 days after our son's 1st birthday he hung himself. It's been a real bad experience to come down here and lose him that way. Thank you. God Bless. |
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Sims Family of 1 ID # 174 Female - Age 35 Originally from Gulfport, Mississippi Adopted by a family
in |
Comments: I lived in Gulfport, MS but stayed in pass Christian, MS during the hurricane because I didn't want to leave my mom and grandmother. We tried to evacuate but couldn't due to traffic. We were about 2 miles north of the beach and my apartment was 2 blocks north of the beach. Late Sunday night the winds were around 70 MPH and by early Monday morning 8/29/05 they were over 100MPH. The water was about 3 feet deep at that point, so we all went to the top floor of the townhouse we were staying in and within 1 hour the water level was up to our chest even though we were on the top floor. It was a 25-30 foot tidal surge. My mom and I tied ropes around us and dove in the water trying to reach a big piece of wood from the deck which had broken off so that we could possibly float on it if we had to jump out. The water began to go down about 2 hours later and continued to go down all the way, but it took about 7 hours. All of our cars and everything we owned, clothes, furniture and all of our personal items were destroyed. My apartment located in Gulfport was destroyed and my car has yet to be located. The next day a U.S. Army helicopter landed near by and asked if we were ok, he told us they would rescue us as soon as possible. We got out on Tuesday afternoon. I finally got a phone call out 5 days later and my Aunt drove down to Gulfport and brought me back to Monroe, La. I've been near ever since. I've been trying to find a way to get a car so I can find a job. As of now I have nothing. I have no money, clothes, car or a job. But I am blessed to have a roof over my head and to be alive, for that I am thankful. |
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Moorer Family of 4 ID # 175 Mother - Age 51 Children - 1 boy 13 Brother - Age 48 Female Cousin - 51 Originally from Prichard, Alabama |
Comments: It was terrible a tree fell on top of my house i left home and stay with my daughter and when I came back a tree was on top of my house but i thank the lord it could have been worse. |
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Norwood Family of 4 ID # 176 Mother - Age 31 Children - 1 boy 14, 2 girls 11 & 10 Originally from Prichard, Alabama Adopted by a family in Ventura, CA 11/28/05 |
Comments: We were going to stay at home until the water started coming under my front door and a tree then fell through my son bedroom and i then called the rescue squad to rescue me and my kids out of the house. By the time the they arrived water was about 4 feet deep. My house was destroyed by hurricane Katrina Me and my kids lost almost everything we had. It's hard right now for us, but with the help of God we will make through. The good thing about it my landlord said me and my will be back in our house before Christmas. Me and my kids will appreciate anything we can get at this time and may god bless you and your family. |
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Glaser Family of 3 ID # 177 Mother - Age 40 Children - 1 boy - 2, 1 girl - 8 Originally from Slidell, Louisiana Adopted by the
Students at Virginia Tech |
Comments: I was rescued by the southern Baptist disaster relief group. I was brought to Huntingdon TN where i joined the First Baptist Church in Huntingdon. at the time of hurricane katrina i was going thru a divorce with my ex husband and i had custody of our 2yr old son. my ex husband had visitation to our our son and decided not to bring him back. my ex husband left la and moved to Evansville in with our son. i remained in la and rode out katrina in St. Tammany Parish, Slidell la. i was scared and all alone with no one to turn to and no help from law enforcements. i moved to Huntingdon Tenn. and got a good lawyer where i was able to get back my son from my ex husband. i lost everything i owned in la. i pray that you will give my son a good Christmas i am single again and scared to be back on my own with just a small child. on top of things i cant get no help from the insurance agents and FEMA. my ex husband refuses to pay support for our son too. i pray a guardian angel will watch over my son and i. i do volunteer work to help others. please provide a good Christmas for my little ones. God bless all that adopts the families and have a safe and wonderful holiday season . |
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Conner Family of 2 ID # 178 Female - Age 23 Male - Age 33 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana |
Comments: I don't really like talking about the evacuation or the way I served because it hurts every time Ii think about all the pain heartaches and the sleepless nights. I just thank GOD for people who do offer help and support to the victims. |
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Michaelson Family of 4 ID # 179 Mother - Age 26 Father - Age 29 Children - 1 boy - 7, 1 girl - 2 Originally from Slidell, Louisiana Adopted by Good Foods Grocery in Richmond, Virginia 11/14/05 |
Comments: We left before the storm Hit and drove to Destin Florida. We tried to get back as close as we could to Louisiana and ended up in Alabama. We recently went back to see our home and what Katrina did not destroy, the salvageable things were stolen. We lost every single item we owned except the 3 outfits each we took with us. |
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Harness Family of 2 ID # 180 Mother - Age 22 Children - 1 girl - 8 months Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Family in Northwood, Ohio 11/8/05 |
Comments: ON MONDAY AUGUST 26,2005 HURRICANE KATRINA HIT ABOUT 12:00 IN THE MORNING. MY MOM, MY DAUGHTER, AND MYSELF WERE AT HOME BECAUSE WHEN HAD NO WAY TO LEAVE. THAT EVENING THE HURRICANE HAD PASSED BUT THE LEVEE HAD BROKEN AND WE DIDN'T KNOW DUE TO HAVING NO POWER. WHEN THE WATER STARTED RISING AND IT DIDN'T FLOOD FROM THE HURRICANE WE WERE NERVOUS. BY 5PM THE WATER HAD RISEN TO OUR 2 DOOR STEP, WE LEFT AND TRIED TO GO THE SUPERDOME BUT THE WATER WAS ALREADY TOO HIGH. WE SLEPT ON THE BRIDGE THAT NIGHT AND BY THE NEXT MORNING THE WATER WAS COMING UP THE BRIDGE. I HAD TO GO HOME BECAUSE I THOUGHT IT WOULD HAVE BEEN OVER WITH AND ONLY BROUGHT TWO CANS OF SIMILIAC FOR MY DAUGHTER SO SHE NEEDED SOME MORE. I HAD TO GO BACK TO LET THE DOG INSIDE AND MAKE SURE THE DOORS WERE LOCK AND THAT WE HAD A LITTLE MONEY ON US, THEN WE LEFT. WE HAD TO WALK ACROSS THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER BRIDGE WITH A 7 MONTH OLD BABY. WE SLEPT ON THE PORCH IN THE FISHER PROJECT CAUSE MY AUNTS HOUSE HAD NO AIR. WE WENT TO THE TERMINAL WHERE BUSES WERE PICKING THE EVACUEES WERE PICKED UP AND BROUGHT TO I-10 AND CAUSEWAY. AT THE TERMINAL SOME OF THE RESIDENTS OF NEW ORLEANS BROKE IN THE MALL AND THEN SET IT ON FIRE BUT WE COULDN'T MOVE OR ELSE YOU LOSE YOUR PLACE IN LINE. SO WE ARE INHALING THE SMOKE AND THEN THE POLICE PULL THEIR GUNS OUT THINKING SOMEONE IN THE CROWD DID IT. ONE OF THEIR GUNS WENT OFF BY MISTAKE AND THEY THOUGHT SOMEBODY IN THE CROWD WAS SHOOTING AT THEM AND DIDN'T WANT TO LET US GET ON THE BUS. AFTER MAYBE 45 MINUTES. THEY REALIZED IT WAS ONE OF THEIR GUNS SO THEY LET US ON THE BUS AND TOOK US TO THE I-10 CAUSEWAY. THEY LEFT US OUT THERE WITH MAYBE 500 PEOPLE OR MORE WANTING ON GREYHOUNDS TO PICK US UP. THEY GAVE US COTS AND HAD US SLEEP OUT THERE FOR MAYBE 4 HOURS THEN BUSES ARRIVED BUT THEY WERE SCHOOL BUSES. SCHOOL BUSES BROUGHT US FROM NEW ORLEANS TO DALLAS TEXAS IN A 14 HOUR DRIVE WITH NO AIR. BUT I APPRECIATE EVERYTHING. I WANT TO THANK EVERYBODY WHO HELPED US CAUSE THEY COULD HAVE LEFT US. SOME HAD NASTY ATTITUDES BUT GOD BLESS THEM TOO. THANK YOU AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS |
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Williams Family of 7 ID # 181 Mother - Age 32 Father - Age 29 Children - 1 boy -12, 2 girls - 15,10 Sister - 25 & Nephew - 4 Originally from Gulfport, Mississippi Adopted by Spring in Atlanta, Georgia 12/05/05 |
Comments: We left the day before the Hurricane and was unable to return home until four days later. Our house was badly flooded and damaged. We had to move out because it was not livable, So now we are currently living in Georgia. We have relatives here that helped us until we got into our own place. Please help us have a very Merry Christmas! |
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Dominque Family of 4 ID # 182 Mother - Age 26 Father - Age 24 Children - 1 boy - 6, 1 girls - 1 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by the University of Mobile Student Government Association in Mobile, AL 11/22/05 |
Comments: We went to Mississippi and then to Baton Rouge and the to Atlanta we are now in Florida. |
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Fradella Family of 4 ID # 183 Mother - Age 26 Father - Age 25 Children - 1 boy - 6, Baby boy due 11/7 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by Family in Baton Rough, Louisiana 11/4/05 |
Comments: On Aug. 27th my husband (common-law) and I along with our 6 yr. old son and our dog evacuated our Lakeview area home and headed to Hope, Arkansas where we had a hotel room booked for 3 nights. We left on a Saturday and expected to return by Tuesday, we watched CNN in horror as the chaos and disaster unfolded in our city. We remained hopeful until the 17th St. Canal and the London Ave. canal broke, as our home is situated between the two of them. We awaited word on the condition of our area and soon learned that our home was under 10 1/2 ft. of water. Our time in the hotel was expiring and we were almost out of money, so we spoke to some friends of ours from our neighborhood who had evacuated to Fort Payne, Al. and we decided to meet them so that we could pool our monies together (as they were running out as well) and all get a hotel and food items together. After paying for a hotel for 2 weeks, my family and I moved into a hotel in the Desoto State Park, where FEMA was housing evacuees, and eventually they moved us into a log cabin so that we could have access to a refrigerator and stove. I am 9 months pregnant and we were becoming very anxious about finding a more permanent housing solution, when a woman donated a house to us rent free and that is where we are today. My second son is due any day and because my husband is unable to find employment. I do not drive and will need him here with me when I go into labor as we are in the mountains with no family or friends. However, we are extremely grateful to have a place to lay our heads and to bring our new son home to. |
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Melerine Family of 3 ID # 184 Mother - Age 26 Father - Age 26 Children - 1 girl - 3 Originally from Chalmette, Louisiana Adopted by a Family in Lakeland, FL 11/1/05 |
Comments: The day before Katrina hit we left to go to Memphis. We only brought a few sets of clothes each, and some toys for Hayley. We couldn't bring alot because we were car pooling with my mother in law, and we didn't think the storm would be as bad as what it was. The day after the storm we saw the devastation that Katrina left and for a week we stayed in a hotel in Memphis. We were running out of money so we had to go to my wife's grandfathers in Tampa. A month after the storm, my aunt and uncle went to see the damages that Katrina left behind. I lived in St Bernard Parish which in the eye of the hurricanes path. My house had 15 feet of water in it. My aunt, mom, brother in law, and mother in law all lived about a minute from each other, they all got about 9 feet of water. |
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Risper Family of 5 ID # 185 Mother - Age 24 Children - 2 girls - 5, 1 Sister - 25 Brother - 26 Originally from Prichard, Alabama Adopted by REAL
Creations, Inc. in |
Comments: PART OF MY ROOF WAS ON THE GROUND, THE REFRIGERATOR WENT COMPLETELY OUT, THE PLUMBING BACKED UP, THE HOUSE WAS FLOODED, WATER EVERYWHERE. MY FURNITURE WAS RUINED, AND BECAUSE I THREW EVERYTHING OUT WITHOUT TAKING PICTURES I DIDN'T HAVE MUCH HELP REPLACING THEM. I ALSO HAD 3 BROKEN WINDOWS. THIS WAS THE WORST EXPERIENCE I HAVE EVER HAD TO GO THROUGH I DON'T KNOW IF I WILL BE BACK HOME BY CHRISTMAS THEY ARE FIXING ON MY HOUSE NOW AND DON'T KNOW WHEN THEY WILL BE THROUGH I HOPE AND PREY THEY BE THROUGH BEFORE CHRISTMAS BECAUSE THERE IS NOTHING LIKE THE HOLIDAYS AT HOME. |
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Weiskopf Family of 3 ID # 186 Mother - Age 51 Father - Age 50 Children - 1 girl - 21 Originally from Braithwaite, Louisiana |
Comments: Evacuated Sunday before the storm to Mississippi then a week after to Texas. |
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Webster Family of 3 ID # 187 Mother - Age 29 Children - 1 boy 2, 1 girl - 8 Originally from Chalmette, Louisiana Adopted by Purdue
University |
Comments: Evacuated to Texas Saturday before Katrina. |
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Miles Family of 2 ID # 188 Mother - Age 24 Children - 1 girl - 5 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by a Business in Saltillo, Mississippi 11/8/05 |
Comments: We were picked up by helicopter on the roof of our home Thursday after the storm and were dropped off at the Convention Center. We were picked up by bus Sunday and were sent to Lafayette La, and stayed in a shelter called the Cajun Dome for a month before we moved to California where we are now. I appreciate any help to make my daughter have a good Christmas |
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Rogers Family of 7 ID # 189 Mother - Age 26 Children - 4 boys - 6, 5, 4, 2, 1 girl - 1 Grandmother - 43 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by St. Giles Catholic Church in Oak Park, Illinois 11/08/05 |
Comments: We were picked up by helicopter on the roof of our home on Thursday and were then dropped off at the Convention Center where we waited until Sunday for busses to come pick us up. My 2 younger kids and I were put on a bus going to Houston and my mother and my 3 older kids were put on a bus going to Lafayette La. And we didn't know till the busses were in motion that we were going to separate cities. I asked to be taken off to be with my other kids the driver told me no and sit down before he leaves me and my kids in New Orleans. I was very scared I thought I would never see my other kids or my mother again. I had to be strong for my babies because they were very scared and sick. My mother and I and my kids were later reunited in Lafayette La, where we stayed in the Cajun Dome for a month until the USDA sent us to California where we are now. I am a single mother of five so any help I receive will be greatly appreciated. |
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Miles Family of 6 ID # 190 Mother - Age 32 Father - Age 36 Children - 3 girls - 13, 6, 2 Nephew - Age 21 Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana Adopted by a family in Los Angeles, CA 11/23/05 |
Comments: We left our home by boat Tuesday morning. We were told to go to the Superdome and would receive food and water, but that was not true. My daughters were very dehydrated. We stayed in the Superdome where men were raping kids I was very scared. My daughters, my husband and I huddled around our kids and we took turns staying up watching them. We were then told to go outside where buses were waiting for us. We all managed to get on the same bus and were brought to the Cajun Dome and we stayed there until we moved to St. Martinsville LA. Thank you so much for your support. |
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Gaines Family of 4 ID # 191 Mother - Age 38 Father - Age 38 Children - 1 boy - 10, 1 girl - 22 Originally from Port Sulphur, Louisiana Adopted by Good Foods Grocery in Richmond, Virginia 11/14/05 |
Comments: Our evacuation experience was and still is unreal we never thought we would loose everything. You live somewhere all your life and you think your going to raise your family there, then in the blink of and eye it's all gone, Our family life will forever be changed but I look at it from Gods point of view this is where he wanted us to in this point and time he will look out for us .HE looks out for his own. May god bless you |
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Alexis Family of 5 ID # 192 Mother - Age 30 Father - Age 31 Children - 1 boy - 1, 2 girls - 7, 1 Originally from Lake Charles, Louisiana Adopted by a family in Minnesota 11/28/05 |
Comments: Living in a hotel 2 weeks and coming home to find you have a lot of damage to your roof and having to replace a lot of things. |