Editor:

We are a local group of women raising money to go to New Orleans to help with the rebuilding of homes. Some of us have experienced this life-changing trip and several are new to the massive effort needed to bring this city back to a normal life.

Many of the residents of New Orleans, who were displaced by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, have been unable to return. Most have no money to renovate their homes. Policies, political red tape and corruption have tied up millions of dollars in available funds. Of those who have qualified, many are falling victim to corrupt contractors. In February of this year several of us worked on a house where the elderly owner lost $70,000 to contractors. Thousands of homes stand empty and destroyed by mold and mud. Neighborhoods remain dark and deserted.

We will be given free accommodations by the Presbyterian Church; however, we are required to raise funds to cover all of our other expenses. These expenses will include airline tickets, food and the rental of vans to get us to and from our worksite each day.

We would greatly appreciate any donation you can contribute. Monetary contributions will help with expenses. Contributions of items and/or services can be raffled off or used in an auction at an upcoming fundraiser.

Thank you for your consideration and please feel free to contact us with any and all questions. 

If you are issuing a check you may make it payable to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church and receive a tax deductible receipt.

Jeanne Gomez, Patricia Pearman, Donna M. Cox, Lindsey Barton, Kimberly Gallagher, Emily Bellmore, Marietta Cox, Laura Fontaine, Amanda Pearman