2012 Going South to New Orleans

2012 Going South to New Orleans

The Archdioceses of New Orleans Catholic Charities announced the closing of their Operation Helping Hands program in October of 2011. Cherie and Anya Holodnick, Debbie Sedore and Chuck Yonka were left with finding new lodging and a new organization that was still working in New Orleans. They followed the lead of the St. Francis of Assisi Youth Group and contacted Camp Hope for lodging and St. Bernard Project for  working. Camp Hope accommodations were good and the people there were wonderful.   The location was great because they were only 5 miles from the French Quarter!  St. Bernard Project was very organized and the tools that were provided were in good condition. 

New Orleans is coming back.  Most of the damaged and unrepaired homes have been torn down leaving  empty lots.  In the area of Camp Hope, Arabi, LA, the neighborhood is mostly empty lots with a few scattered homes.  Many brand new homes have been built, some of them much larger than the previous homes.   The yards look good, trees and flowers have been planted and the neighborhoods are more alive.

Unfortunately, there are still many homes that need work.   It's been almost 7 years since the storm and there are many  people on  waiting lists to have their homes finished.  St Bernard Project is currently working on 60 homes. With over 100 people on their waiting list, they have stopped taking names for now.  It is frustrating to hear that so many people have lost their money due to con artists:  contractors that take the money but never complete the work.  There is still much to do!

If you are interested in being part of the 2013 Going South to New Orleans group, please contact Scott Wright @ 734-821-2121 or swright@stfrancisa2.org.   We are looking for interested people and new leadership!