Hurricane Laura was devastating, making landfall in the United States at the end of August. It made a catastrophic impact in Louisiana and Texas.
Laura destroyed parts of Louisiana's power grid after making landfall as the strongest hurricane to strike the state since 1856. The storm struck with 150-mph winds, shredded houses and contributed to at least 17 deaths in Louisiana and Texas.
Upon hearing of this crisis, Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Catholic Charities leadership discussed how we can help and give back to those most impacted.
We consulted with Catholic Charities USA and sent a team to Catholic Charities of Southwest Louisiana, Diocese of Lake Charles. The team of 4: Aneta, Alyssa, Ghada, and Don, consisted of staff members from each of our 4 agencies: Straight and Narrow, Department for Persons with Disabilities and Catholic Family and Community Services.
Despite the devastating aftermath of this storm, Catholic Charities of Southwest Louisiana was able to open the day after, and helped those who were directly impacted in Lake Charles. They delivered 258 pallets worth of materials to 20 different locations throughout the Diocese.
Last week, our 4 staff helped with food delivery, clean-up and were proud to lend a hand where they could. "The devastation was immense. There were so many people who lost so much, and Catholic Charities was there to not only help with basic life needs, but also to help lift spirits. It was uplifting to be part of the recovery process," said Don Rossi, 40-year employee of the Department for Persons with Disabilities.
These 4 staff will now quarentine for 14 days and work remotely.
"We are more than just our surrounding communities. We are proud to be part of the nation-wide network of Catholic Charities and were happy to give back to the great people of Louisiana. We thank Bishop Sweeney for his support and willingness to help those in need. We also thank our 4 staff who traveled out to Louisiana during this pandemic. They epitomize selfless love," said Scott Milliken, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson CEO.
To learn more about Catholic Charities of Southwest Louisiana or to donate please visit:
www.catholiccharitiesswla.com