Louisiana under State of Emergency:  Rotary Can Help

 

From CNN:  The catastrophic flood devastating Louisiana is now the worst natural disaster to strike the United States since Hurricane Sandy. "Thousands of people in Louisiana have lost everything they own and need our help now," said Brad Kieserman, the Red Cross' vice president of disaster services operations and logistics.

 

"This disaster is the worst to hit the United States since Superstorm Sandy, and we anticipate that recovery will cost at least $30 million -- a number which may grow as we learn more about the scope and magnitude of the devastation." In one part of Livingston Parish, more than 31 inches of rain fell in 15 hours. The US Coast Guard, National Guard, local emergency responders and even neighbors have helped rescue more than 30,000 residents and 1,400 pets.

 

Ronald J. Broida, District Governor 6450, Naperville, Illinois, has asked our District to partner with him and other Districts to assist in home repair.  District 6450 is part of our Rotary Zone 29, and the District Governors of 2016-2017 have worked together on a number of projects.   “There are 40,000 homes that have been damaged as a result of the flooding.  To repair these homes, the existing drywall and plywood has to be removed promptly or mold sets in and the building is ruined.” District Governor Broida would like to coordinate the distribution of funds with our Rotary District to purchase the materials that would assist in the reconstruction of homes.

 

District Governor Sieglinde Warren would like all clubs to consider a donation of $100-$1000 toward this humanitarian project. Rotarians are encouraged to personally assist as well. Funds can be sent to the Salem Rotary Foundation, a not-for-profit, and tax receipts will be issued for personal donations.  Please respond by September 30th.

 

“Together we can make a difference.”  Please make checks payable to The Salem Rotary Foundation, P.O. Box 1244, Salem, OH 44460. E-mail: Peter@salemrad.com, 330-2070-0500 (cell).