Notes From the Field
SEPTEMBER04.2008
3 DAYS AFTER GUSTAV
As I traveled throughout rural communities in South Louisiana to assess the damage, it struck me as we drove into Thibodaux, Louisiana, that the damage here was much like many of the communities hit by Gustav. Trees down, no electricity, long gas lines and most businesses closed. The difference, however, was the presence of military police, which wouldn’t alarm me except for the fact that they were not carrying small concealed weapons, but rifles hanging from their shoulders. If you have ever been to Thibodaux, you know that everyone knows each other, and it is a small, close-knit community, making the presence of military police alarming to those who live there. Read More
19.2008
LDRF VISITS ‘FORGOTTEN’ COMMUNITIES
Houma: The entire community was mandated to evacuate for both Gustav and Ike; fragile infrastructure was being repaired when Ike hit, they find they have no electricity and no access to basic provisions; local community-based organizations are working well together to coordinate relief efforts; residents have not been able to contact FEMA by phone because lines are busy; cannot access help online without electricity; Chabert Hospital, the charity hospital for the tri-parish area, has major damage and is not projected to open again for six weeks but working with limited service via mobile “mash” units; half of the 42 public schools suffered major damage; the civic center is the FEMA relief station with lines going on for miles – many in outlying areas cannot reach the station because of impassable roads and lack of fuel; 90% of the residents evacuated, but are now suffering from cash flow problems associated with evacuation and small businesses not reopening quickly; most businesses are suffering from cash flow problems, especially service-oriented businesses, which directly affects their employees. Read More
23.2008
HACKBERRY AND HOLLY BEACH
Today we are traveling to Southwest Louisiana’s Cameron Parish to visit the communities of Hackberry, a town of about 1700 people, and Holly Beach, a small community of about 300 – both of which were severely impacted by hurricane Ike.
South Cameron Parish has only recently been re-opened to residents and relief personnel. A very serious-looking police officer stands next to his car with its lights flashing, blocking Highway 27, and questions us before reluctantly allowing our group to enter and reminding us that we must be out by 6:00 pm. Read More
