Index of Families

I started this site back on 10/28/06 as part of Make a Difference Day. Since then, of the over 40 families who have registered, 3 have seen their situation improve, 4 have had it deteriorate, and the rest have remained in recovery limbo. Those are horrid stats. Help once, help many times, it doesn't matter. Help and compassion are what is needed now.

Red is new Green is updated Blue is unchanged Purple is New Topic

The Questionnaire
Helping Without Going Down
Helping A Family/Individual
My Story - Added 11/23/06 comment added 4/8/07

The People
2/1/08 Linda B+7 - Biloxi MS
2/1/08 Tammy W + 6 - Kiln, MS
12/12/07 Tracie + 3 San Diego CA
12/8/07 Carol - MS (adopted by 3)
12/6/07 Keisha + 1 - Baton Rouge LA
12/8/07 Thai C + 6 - Theodore AL (adopted by 1 work department)
12/4/07 ebbie S + 6 - De Ridder, LA
12/1/07 Carol R +5 - Picayune MS Adopted by 1 family
12/1/07 Jean - NOLA
12/1/07 Christie S + 2 - Hattiesburg, MS
11/26/07 Miriam + 3 - Prichard AL
11/26/07 Cheryl B + 1 - Biloxi MS
11/23/07 - Jessica + 1 - Metairie LA
11/23/07 Elizabeth + 4 - Jonesborough GA
11/10/07 Ginger + 7 - Lucedale MS
11/1/07 Shannon - Bayou LaBatre, LA
9/5 Gina + 2 - NOLA Area Doing GREAT!
6/22 Robb - Waveland MS - Lost Internet Service
6/17 Chanda L +3 - Picayune MS
4/17 Schonda S and Family from Waveland, MS
4/17 Roxanne + 4, Houston, TX (adopted by 1)
3/25 Yvonne T + 1 - Bay St Louis, MS
3/10 William Pearlington, MS
3/8 Cheryl + 3 - NC (adopted by 1)
3/7 Debbie- Kiln, MS
3/4 Robert + 3 - Biloxi MS
1.21 Jennipher + 3 - OH - Chose to be removed...
1/13 Toni and Family Metairie, LA (adopted by 1)
1/10 Christa and Family NOLA (adopted by 1)
1/5 Terry + 1 - Waveland MS
1/4 Lee Ann and Family - Waveland MS
12/28 Richard and Barb - Waveland MS
12/28 Barbara V + 7 - Petal MS
12/23 Julie S + 1 - Picayune MS
12/22 Shelley + 6 - Gulfport, MS (adopted by 3)
12/14 - Christine - IL
12/14 Penny and Family NOLA area (adopted by 1)
12/12 - Anna + 2 Vancleave MS
12/11 Jerry et al - Ocean Springs MS
12/11 Linda + 1 - VA
12/9 Pat - Bay St Louis MS
12/9 Melissa + 1 - FL
12/9 Bonnie + 1 - Phoenix
12/9 Valerie + 1 - Blacksburg VA
12/3 Alysia Broadmoor LA (Adopted by 1)

Individuals' Resource Pages
Grandfamily/Single Parent Resources
Family Resources
Medical Resources
LA Family Resources
Education Assistance
Businesses
Mortgage Resources
Furniture and More
Home/Utility
Elderly
Resources for Children/Childcare
Disabled
Grants for Individuals - does not include homeowner or repair grants
Dental

Other Sites Related to Real People Relief
Katrina Networking
Hancock County Agency Information
Pearlington Waveland
BayStLouis
Gulf Coast Artist Relief Blog
Gulf Coast Emergency Services Relief Blog

Volunteer Information
For Agencies and Organizations
Katrina's Angels
For Non-Profits and Municipalities -
Assistance For Schools -
Grants for Non-Profits
Grants For Communities
Citizen Action Team
Community Gardens Effort All 3 installments linked at top
Gulf Coast Civic Works Project - please support
Safety Guidelines For Volunteers

Tammy W + 6

Tammy; John, Sterling, Shelby, John Duke, Yancey; Little Joe

Email: tammy.walker @ rac.com

Location: Kiln, MS

Number in House: 7; 2 Adults, 4 Kids, 1 dog

Situation:
We’ve been through every emotion imaginable and every scenario imaginable. We had severe wind damage. – No payout from Insurance, and only given $973.00 from FEMA. Estimate to repair house is $13,000.00.

We have applied for all grants available but because we didn’t have flood, water, or surge in the house we do not qualify. We have become so filled with frustration, anger, disbelief, and anguish that we have considered just walking away from everything.

Financially we can not afford the repairs.

We were remodeling our home at the time of the storm and not only sustained damage to the house but lost all our materials we had stored. It took us a year to buy all our materials. We bought pay check to pay check.

FEMA of course would not even consider paying us for this loss. They said as far as the house damage they paid us based on the inspector’s report. Well, God Bless the inspector, but all he did was walk around my house. He didn’t go into the attic to see the damage to the ridge vents from all the trees falling on the house. He didn’t climb the roof to see that the structural integrity of the roof was so severely damaged that it was allowing water in the house.

Now I not only have a severe roof problem, but I have mold in my house. It’s all in the sheetrock in 3 rooms. Not to mention the loss of all our materials that we (at this rate) will probably never be able to afford to replace so we can finish our house.

I know some people had it and still have it worse off than us. And believe me we are so grateful for what we still have - but we deserve so much better for our children. We work so hard for everything we have. WE NEED SO MUCH HELP – but no one is there. We feel so alone

Help Received: FEMA Minimum, PA Family (Christmas 2006) , NY Family (Christmas 2007)

Current Living Arrangements: Tent, House (alternate living arrangements due to mold)

Needs:
Volunteer assistance with house.
Assistance finding home owner's insurance.
Materials for home.
Clothes for the kids:
Sterling – pants size boys 14 shirt – Medium – shoe/sock - 11
Shelby – pants size girl 16 – shirt large – shoe/sock - 7
John – pants size boys 6 – shirt medium – shoe/sock boys 12
Yancey – 3T in everything – shoe/sock – toddlers 71/2

Linda B + 2

Linda; Charles, Rick; Hank, Goldie, Bama, Rosie, Hannah, Buddy, Lilly; Spot, Momma Cat

Email: linda_byrd70 @ yahoo.com

Location: Biloxi, MS

Number in House: 3 human, 7 Dogs, 2 Cats

Situation: House is up for foreclosure. Linda was disabled in Spring of '06, but had no income until spring of '07 from SSD. Charles was self employed, but without health insurance and needed neck surgery. Has been unable to return to work.
The car has been repossessed, the house is going up for foreclosure and the electricity is going to be shut off.
4 of the dogs and 1 of the cats showed up right after the storm and have become part of the family.
Clothes and furniture were replaced, but that has been all.

Current Living Arrangements: House - for now.

Needs: Groceries, dog food, cat food, heart worm meds, flea meds, rabies vaccine, assistance with financing of tractor, house. Flooring.

Stores: Lowes (for home repair stuff); Walmart (everything)

Carol + 2

Carol V, Stormy, Harley
12/16/07
Well this is what they came up with today degenerative bone disease, curvature of the spine, hardening of the arteries and high blood pressure. They wanted to keep me in the hospital.
Oh and best of all he says "you no work you no walk."
I barely understood what he was saying the nurse had to translate, she is getting me an appointment with the clinic so I will have a pcp here close to the house not 2 hrs away, which is a good thing.
He basically said change your eating, lose weight or you are gonna die. Just kick me when I am already down.
The bone disease is in every bone I could not believe it.
They did a very thorough work up though which was a good thing I guess.
So I guess it was a good thing I started the ball rolling to apply for the disability. I guess as they say, this too shall pass.

12/8/07
Well We got quite a suprise this morning; a brand new water heater that works and does not leak so our water and elec bill should go down. My cousin Nolan brought it over and installed it and built a shed around it so it is protected. Lightning took out the old one.

Becky and baby Eden are home now. They are doing well.

Stormy and Harley are getting excited waiting on Santa. Before long they will be out of school for Christmas holidays.

My Dr appointment has been rescheduled for the end of Jan. there is no telling when i will get my knee fixed. I need to stay positive and not give up.

10/17/07
I have been side lined, my knee is going to require surgery to get better I am on the waiting list. I nor my Dr have any idea how long a wait it will be. So I am stuck waiting.

Do you have a really simple quilt pattern you could copy and send me I want to make Beckys baby a quilt. The baby is a girl. Which is just what she wanted. I sent her a baby block pattern with some fabric as well.

I am trying to make some outfits to sell on ebay so I can make some money for us to live on.

6/21 WOW
I am good and I have a surprise, I passed the GED, I diddn't want to say anything until I was sure but the paper came in the mail at my Uncle's and I had him open it and read it to me I passed Yeah!!!!!!!!!!! When I scheduled to take it I thought I wouldn't pass but it would let me know where I stood, well I fooled myself I passed. Thanks again for everything it is all very much appreciated, the Iron works fine.

6/14 Carol trying Avon...
http://www.youravon.com/cvoisin
Please use her as your contact and letting your friends know

5/29 Hey gang - Leslie here. Carol is moving closer to 2 of her daughters and has a job waiting for her! She's moving from upstate MS to LA somewhere and needs help. She needs GOOD shoes and scrubs to work in. She's getting training for CNA to work in a nursing home. She'll be living with a friend until about Christmas and then is hoping to have a place of her own.
Please contact Carol or me to assist her. Thanks!
L

Email: carolv70726 @ yahoo.com
Location: Life was devastated by hurricane Katrina. I rented a home, but then the landlord sold the land that was left after the storm, and I can't afford anything else. Am living with friends in AZ with my 2 grandchildren.
Number in House: 6 - myself, my granddaughter Stormy, my grandson Harley and my 3 dogs Stormy this year.

Situation: My life since the hurricane has been horrible. We lost our home we were renting - it was smashed and the guy sold the land and I cant afford the rent they are charging now. Then we were at my cousins in MS, with my aunt and uncle in Denham but they were too sick for the kids to stay there. From relative to relative during the summer so we ended up at a friend's in AZ. It is me and my grandkids ages 9 and 8. I have had them for years and before I could handle it. Now I'm not so sure. At home I was able to babysit make some extra money, but now I don't have that ability. I'm sure they miss all of their stuff but I have been able to keep everybody together and that is what counts.
Current Living Arrangement: With friends in AZ. Not sure where I'll be in a year.
Help: Initial FEMA and then denied. Nothing more.
Harley
Needs:
Food and shots for the dogs.

Clothes for the kids:
What I really need is clothes for the kids girls size 8 boys size 6 underwear socks for shoe size 2. they picked now to grow Harley has been a size 4 for 2 years now he is a 6.
Stormy Spencer Girl Size 7/8 age 9 - Size 8 underwear, all clothes.
Harley Spencer Boy Size 6 age 8
Stormy on Right, Harley on Left
Carol's latest Grandchild - Noah
4/13
Franklinton is perfect, it is 30 minutes from the place I found for rent I have a friend Cathy who I helped out like 6 years ago when she lost her job as an apartment manager they sold the apartments and gave her 7 days to get out anyway she emailed to see how everything was going I told her and she suggested that we come and stay with her until the 2br her landlord is working on gets ready I am not going to move the kids again this year until school is out. The rent on the 2br is 250.00 and the deposit is 250.00 and I will have to have util deposits and stuff but I think I can do it, it wont be ready till the middle of June first of July so I will have to help cathy with her rent in June, cathy says there is a sonic right down the road she lives in spring creek which is close to Kentwood. she works 10-6 days and I can work 2 jobs just till I get us in the trailer my daughter Becky lives 20 minutes from Franklinton. It is 45 minutes from Betty Jo and Cherie and about an hour from Angel.

They said at least 45 months for the grant Uncle Dennis might not even be here then. I dont know what to do it doesnt seem to bother him to live like this I guess he is used to it. (USDA rural home improvement grant. 45 months?!)

Harley needs a pair of size 6 navy blue cant have big pockets or nothing on them used is fine we only have like 6 weeks left.

3/24 The job hunting or lack of jobs to hunt for is doing me in. I cant stand on my feet for a long time so fast food is out or waitress so there is not much to choose from I check every day but so far nothing. I made 20.00 babysitting last week so maybe there is hope. I just have to keep looking something is going to come my way I just know it!
2/20 Carol has been learning plumbing - latest re: that adventure:
Oh dont worry I just about wore them out with questions I started out changing the bathtub faucets did no good, then I changed the sink faucets did no good then wonder of wonders I found a cut off valve turned it on and hurray water in the sink I had to fix a leak to be able to leave the water on to the sink but that is done now. Baby steps but it is comming along I changed the place where I was buying things because the one place diddnt want to help at all just sell stuff but the guy at the lumber yard hardware store in Shelby is a great guy and he doesnt mind giving advice. I need one of those hook ups for putting water in a waterbed that would hook up to the sink and then I could hook the water hose up to that and just run the water from the kitchen. I can take a bath now though and that is all that matters.

1/30
Hi ! I have my cousins computer on loan for a week while she is out of town. Her son is in the military and he is graduating from basic training. So I can stay in touch for a few days anyway, even though my computer died. I dont want to move again. I know it is bad but my Uncle really needs me no one should have to live like this and I am determined to make it better. They gave him the wrong USDA Grant application and he couldn't see well enough to even know it so I am going to call the 800# and ask them to send the correct application for the grant - not a loan. He can't afford a loan. He gets less than $1000 a month and with normal bills, he has hardly anything left. I know it's not a palace, but he opened his home to us when no one else would and that means a lot so I am going to help him make it better.
(The job promised her fell through. Her car died, so she can't go looking for another job just yet)

1/14 - Carol et al, arrived safely in MS! She's exhausted, but thrilled to be back.

1/7/07 There are no stores in Round Lake, in Clarksdale there is a walmart, a dollar general, a family dollar, a kroger, and a super saver. Not much to choose from.
I am going to need
1. a set of pots
2. a set of dishes
I will have to wait till we get there to see what else we will need, my cousin went over and checked out the house yesterday, she said bring cleaning stuff ....... LOL

12/30/06
The computer was fixed, died again, was fixed again, but is getting ready to really give up the ghost. I'll need a new one as soon as I get back into MS - which is scary and exciting at the same time.
Harley and Stormy will need uniforms for their new school, so if someone can help, I'd appreciate it.
Harley is a 6, Stormy is an 8 in shorts and skorts and skirts with elastic in the waist and a 9 or 10 in pants. Shirts I think are Red, Harley would be a size 6/7 stormy and 8 or 10.
12/13
My computer died so I can only check my email maybe twice a week. I am at my wits end. I dont know how much more I can take.
12/4
It is the one thing I know how to do real well, take care of people, there is an elderly couple that live about a mile from my uncle, so I can walk to work, and they desperately need someone to cook, clean, run errands etc... does not pay a whole lot but it's better than nothing at all. I took care of my Mom and Dad before they passed away and Im really good at it. My uncle says I have a caring heart and that is what they need. I wish now I had stayed in school instead of getting married so young, but you cant go back just forward. I am determined to make something good come of all this mess, my momma used to say when god gives you lemons you make lemonade. Well I have enough lemons to make lots of lemonade..... I am learning how to use the software so if need be I can find a job doing something else. I so appreciate you helping me I feel like if I can learn to use the software I will have a safety net in place.
11/28
We could really use prepaid gas cards, walmart cards or mcdonalds gift certifcates so that we can have gas and can eat on the way home in Jan.
11/25 Update We are definitely going to my uncles we will be leaving here on Jan 10th and I will go to work the following monday I am so excited, I just have to find a way to pay for the gas. 11/25
Ok here is our update we are still in Arizona for now , I have not found a job and my friends are getting tired of their house guests. My Uncle has offered for us to come stay with him in Round Lake MS it is up north about an hour and a half from Memphis I do have a job prospect if I go there,and rent is very reasonable, so I will be able to get on my feet, not sure how we will get there, but if I have no job prospects by the first of the year here, we are going to have to go. As for a christmas list, just warm clothes girls size 10 shirts size 8 pants & Barbie doll clothes. Boys size 5/6 shirts and pants & Hot wheel cars.
Thanks
Carol
11/14 Updated
Just a quick note to let you know we are still here. We are hanging in. It is actually getting chilly here now. I really need some little light jackets for the kids, I was thinking they might not even need them but I was wrong. Still no job yet but I am still trying. I find that as the holidays get closer I am getting more and more depressed it is getting to be a real struggle just to get out of bed and function as a normal person, I hate this, I want life to be normal again, well at least my idea of normal anyway.

Tracie P

Tracie P, Camrie, Blade, Maycie
Email phelpstracie @ yahoo.com
Location: San Diego. I plan to live in Indianapolis. Indiana in three months
Number in Household: Camrie Phelps 12, Blade Phelps 11, Maycie Phelps 3 months.
Situation: I left New Orleans when the evacuation order went out, I and my two kids. I have lost all of my clothes, my car, my friends. It has been a difficult year for us, being in a strange city with no family members present.
Current Living Arrangements: - Homeless.
Help: -Red Cross,Fema.church ministries,individuals.
Needs:
Foods – non-perishable only
Paper Products – Napkins, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, etc.
School Supplies – notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, etc.
Computer Supplies – computer
Cleaning Supplies – Windex, Dishwashing liquid, Laundry detergent, etc.
Household Supplies – light bulbs, kitchen supplies (pans, pots, etc.)
Clothing – (Updated 12/12/07)
Tracie 39-I need new clothes,size 16 misses pants,Xl shirt.Size 9 shoe
camrie 13-size 4 pants,large shirt.Size 9 shoes
blade 11,wears 14 pants,14 shirt
maycie 1 2t{a }.

12/12/07 Christmas Wish List
We would like computers,games,baby educational toys.Music cd's,cd players.Thank you very much
We would like computers,games,baby educational toys.Music cd's,cd players.Thank you very much

Elizabeth + 4

Elizabeth; Lionel, Caleb, Celina, Cristina

Email: eabroussard @ yahoo.com

Location We lived in gentilly, new orleans (8th ward/18th district), now in Jonesboro, GA. I don't know where we will be in a year.

Number in Household: Elizabeth-33 (self) , female; Lionel- 32, male; Caleb- 9, boy; Celina-2, girl; Cristina-1, girl

Situation I am searching for a Christmas Angel for our 3 kids. My boyfriend works full time but he makes just enough to cover the bills. I am trying to find work around but it is hard to find one around my kids' many doctor appointments.

My oldest is 9 and sees a psychiatrist about twice a month for depression and self esteem issues. He had been missing for about 22 days because of hurricane Katrina and was found by someone who saw his picture posted on CNN***. He had been in 5 different schools in 3 different states for 2005 first grade alone. Since that time he still has nightmares, wets the bed, and becomes very homesick for our family and his things. He has more doctors and medication than I do.

My middle child is 2. She was 3 weeks old when the hurricane struck. Every baby items I had for her I left behind except for a few days worth of clothes and diapers and formula. Everything else .. gone.

My youngest just turned 1 but she was born 10 weeks premature. She sees a physical therapist every week.

We had lost everything in 2005. Everything we have now is due to the kindness of strangers. However, recent events have led us to become in need of help.

Current Living Arrangements: Apartment

Needs: Baby Items

12/11 - I have finally gotten a list of the families needs and wishes for Christmas!
Caleb - 9 sizes – top: 14 ,bottom: 14 husky, shoes 6 youth
For Xmas Glasses, Anything Pokemon, video games

Celina -2 - sizes – clothes 3T, shoes 8 toddler, diapers size 5
For Xmas Clothes, Shoes, Diapers, anything Dora, anything Diego

Cristina -1 sizes – clothes 12 m, shoes 2 infant, diapers size 2
For Xmas - Hair accessories, Hello Kitty, Light up toys, Age Appropriate toys

11/17
The family is dealing with a death, has to borrow a friend's PC, so will be adding to the needs list as soon as she is able.

Thai C

Thai C; Tuyet, Sumer, Sienna, Jasmin, Jayda
Picture of Jayda - born 11.27.07!
http://www.our365.com/webnursery/webnursery/Baby/BabyPageDirect.aspx?CID=0018019273
Email - truchoa97 @ aol.com

Location - Was in Bayou La Batre, am now in Theodore AL.

Situation - Home was destroyed, have moved in with my disabled mother to care for her as well as my 3 daughters and 2 nephews. I have a job, but being a single parent with so many mouths to feed and many medical conditions (1 has asthma, 1 has diabetes, 1 has thyroid, my mother has many issues), it just isn't enough to be able to get items we need as well as take care of existing bills and medical needs.

Number In House - 6: 31 y.o. female - Thai; 74 y.o. female - Tuyet, 10 y.o. female - Sumer, 4 y.o. female - Jasmin, 12 month old - Sienna 12/5/07 - Newest addition is Jayda! As of 11/27/07

Help - the children are all on medicaid, my mother gets SSI and we are on WIC. I received a small amount of LIHEAP (thank goodness!), but otherwise, nothing.

Needs:
Clothing -
*9 year old girl- (updated 11/1/07) 10 yrs old- girl
sizes clothes 14-16 youth
sizes shoes 6
Needs- Clothes, a light jacket, socks, shoes, comforter w/ bedding/ blanket for twin size bed.
Likes anything Hannah Montana, Naruto animation chapter books, stuff penguins/ animals, I-Pod/ I-Cy, Arts and craft stuff, SMS Text messenger data/organizer wireless, The Game of Life, Twist and Turn, tiny book bag, Naruto/ Pokemon movies, an electric guitar, any hand held games or Nintendo DS lite games, video now cds, cd player with cd's, chat now, MP3 Player, a big girls bike or anything age appropriate.

*3 year old girl-4 yrs old (updated 11/1/07)

size clothes- 4T or 5T size shoe- 12/13TNeeds- Clothes, socks, tennis shoes, comforter w/ bedding and blankets for twin size bed.

Likes anything Dora the explorer, Barbie, Bratz, a trike, 3 wheel scooter, a play Dora or any play kitchen, kitchen set toys, tea sets, Puzzles for kids, anything monkeys, Nintendo DS lite games/ puppy dog games, portable DVD player, any type of cartoon dvds, a flip open sofa, anything learning, blendy pens, cd player with children cd's or anything age appropriate.


Sienna 1 yr on Dec 21st (updated 11/1/07)

size clothes- 18-24 months
shoe- 4 or 5
Needs- Seasonal clothes of any type, especially winter clothes and sleepers, a good thermometer. Likes Playskool Busy Basic step start walk n ride, fisher price sit to stand giraff, any cartoon character flip open sofa , any riding things, any toys that makes noise or sings, pink push around buggy, a rocking pony or unicorn, anything learning, teethers, small book bag for a girl, anything Care Bears or anything age appropriate.



Jayda- Due Dec. 16th, 2007
anything for newborn baby, baby bassinet, baby beddings, a good ear thermometer, a girl diaper bag, a baby book, crib toys, a homecoming outfit, clothes for newborn, onesies, clothes for 3 -up months because they grow so quickly, baby bottles, shampoo, diapers, blankets, anything for newborn baby.

*15 year old boy-Phong- 11/1/07 - no longer taking care of nephew. His father now has both boys.
*8 year old boy-Calvin- 11/1/07 - No longer taking care of nephew. His father now has both boys.

*74 year old disabled mother-Tuyet- shirt size X-large, pants size medium adult, socks, shoes size 7

*31 year old woman - gift cards

Food - Any non-perishable foods would be wonderful - Similac Advanced for Sienna.
Paper Products - Toilet Paper! Diapers for a 2 mo. old (size 3) would be a godsend as well
School Supplies - school is almost over, so nothing yet
Computer Supplies - None for now
Cleaning Supplies - detergent - unscented anything is good; dish soap, any basic cleaning stuff
Household supplies - light bulbs, we need cookware and bakeware, complete bedrooms furnishing with beds for my 2 newphews (3/29 is hoping for Adopt My Room assistance -

Stores we shop at - Walmart, Target

12/08/07
I am just really so happy. She was born on Nov. 27th at 3:33am, 20 inches long. I stayed in the hospital for 5 days, but things are ok and hopefully things will get better with the baby. She was early and was not able to eat and had bili rueben. Jaundice. A new addition bundle of joy added to the house and Christmas just around the corner. Nothing but happiness and joy coming this way. I was really scared at first about how I am going to handle all the kids, but now I am just taking it a day at a time.

The kids love the new baby, especially Jasmin, my 4 yr old. She seems like she is more attached to Jayda. Sienna seems like she doesnt really know and Sumer, my 10 yr old, she is worn out, tired, but very helpful.

Jasmin told me the other day "mommy you dont love me anymore" I told her I do but I just had a baby and need to rest. I guess she is not use to me not giving her as much attention. I told all my girls I love them very much but sometimes can't show it because I am so busy with everything, especially the new baby.

10/26/07
A tornadoe came into Irvington, AL yesterday. It was so bad. It tore/destroyed houses down. A lady in the news cried and cried because she lost everything. Her mobile ome was in shambles. It was pretty sad. It rained all day and night yesterday. I live about 10 minutes from Irvington and was safe and ok on my end. No problems or damages. Thank God. It was said to head right through Tillman's Corner which I am between Tillman's Corner and Irvington but we all are safe and no damages. It was so scarey yesterday. People recorded debris flying everywhere. Ugh...not a good sight. Wow, blessed we are. Jasmin school called me early to pick her up early. There was two 18 wheelers that got into an accident with each other so traffic was backed up. But its better today.Its very cold now. Still sprinkling rain but very cool.

Keisha + 1

Keisha, Keishell

email: keishaelizabeth @ Hotmail.com

Location: Baton Rouge, LA

Number in House - 2, Keisha - 28, Keishell - 10

Living Arrangements - Apartment

Help Received - FEMA, Churches for 1 Christmas, Churches for 1 month of utility bills.

Situation - Needing help in different areas, moved to B.R. after Katrina and recently moved a second time to new apt. I'm employed by a local temp agency making an extremely low amount an hour, but trying to stay hopeful. With my previous assignment ending July 31 st, it's been difficult to maintain stability for my daughter and me.

I'm currently waiting for my next job assignment, which I hope to be placed with before the end of Sept. I'm trying to stay focused and productive and hope to be stable, making a decent amount of money in order to provide for my daughter and myself soon.

9/21
Just saying Hi, testing has been pushed back to this coming Monday,I'll be glad when it's done - getting anxious. Also keep us in your prayers, Keishell hasn't been herself lately, I got a call from the school twice because of her talking etc. I do think I need to take her out more often,and do things we used to like go to the movies, window shopping, fairs, etc. Things are just not the same and times are hard. I have been taking her to ride her bike a few times a week and sometimes to activities at the library.
It's all I can do for now, until things get better. Keep us in your prayers. Keisha.

11/1 - Am going to school starting in January. Excited but scared. Have a part time job through the holidays. It's not enough, but it's a lot more than nothing!

12/6 - I have a job! It isn't much and it's through the Temp agency, but it's something! It's only through the holidays, and pays little, but it's cash flow and that's the most important thing at the moment. I'm also doing some online lessons for computer skills at the library, which is helping so much! I know it'll help with school - coming up fast!

Also - could you remove the uniform clothes for Keishell? She has enough and someone else might need them more than we. Also, we have a dryer! Life is so good! So thank you for removing that as well. (both removed)

Keishell is getting excited for Christmas. It's good to see her happy!

Needs -
Clothes -
Keisha - I'm in need of clothing and under garments. Type - everyday/work environment attire , button down blouses, bottoms etc. I wear M/L in blouses it differs,sometimes L will be to big in blouses and tops sometimes not, ,bottoms size 12

Keishel - everyday tops/bottoms, under garments. Keishell is growing up. I was in denial still trying to squeeze her into a 10/12 but she needs size 14 bottoms,and 14 tops to be safe

washer

Toiletries - all

Paper products - all

Gas for travel.

Christmas Wish Lists
Hi, just wanted to give you an idea of what we 'd like and needed.I asked Keishell what were some of the things she'd wanted for Christmas and she lit up and is obviously very excited now.Thanks again.
Keishell
bratz the moviez remote control corvette cruiser
bratz atm machine
bratz microphone
bratz styling head (mannequinn head)
bratz cyber style kids interactive laptop
camera
purse
kids watch
mp3 player
clothes or gift card to purchase
shoes or gift card to purchase

Keisha
laptop
clothes or giftcard to purchase
shoes or giftcard to purchase
purse

A poem Keishell wrote:

Debbie S

Debbie S; Tommy, Ericka, Sandie Michael, Corie, Jamie; dogs, horses, goats.

Email: MommaDebbie7 @ aol.com
Location: DeRidder, LA
Number In Household: 7+; 2 adults, 5 children, dogs.
Situation: Road out Hurricane Rita and lost a lot to water damage. The singlewide that WAS our home got twisted so badly FEMA totalled it. We're trying to salvage it since, but even with professional realignments, the roof doesn't meet the walls like it should and continues to leak. I can't stay in the 2 FEMA trailers we have because my asthma is so bad.
Our livestock shelters were blown away, but we were able to rebuild them with storm debris from a friend's buildings that were destroyed.
We lost our garage, but not rebuilt yet.
The fencing for our dogs' area was lost as well, and no debris is left around here to rebuild it with.
We've tried to seal our roof - using what money we had. It still hasn't worked.
Tommy's job slowed down and I picked up a job to try and fill in the gaps to catch up, but it hasn't worked that way yet.
Current Living Situation: Still on our own property, thankfully! Trying to transition into our old home due to the fumes in the FEMA campers.
Help: FEMA, Friends
Needs: We're not asking for money.
Livestock: Hay, dirt, sand, feed for horses and goats.
Dogs: Food, material to build a new fence for their area, normal flea meds.
House: Materials to repair water damage in Kitchen, bathrooms; to seal roof properly. The household could also use towels, wash cloths, area rugs

Children: We really want Christmas for them this year...
Ericka: age 14(girl)...she wears sizes pants-15 1/2jr, shirt med-large jr's, shoe-10 women.
Her likes are: anything Winnie the pooh(lol), Scrapbook stuff, writing stuff(she writes great short stories), Hair stuff(ribbons, barrettes, ties, etc.), Stuffed animals.
Her needs - Sleep wear, coat, socks ( size 9 bootie), underwear(bikini's size 7), Clothing(pants, shirts, Bra's(38/DD)

Sadie: age 12 (girl)...pants-14 1/2-15 1/2 girls, shirts-16-18 girls, shoes- 7 1/2 women's.
Her likes are: cd player, volleyball set, stuffed animals(FROGS...lol), make-up, nail stuff
Her Needs: Sleep wear, pants, coat, socks, under wear(jr size 5), shoes(size 7 1/2),
Michael: age 15 (boy) has Autism, pants- 29 x 32 1/2, shirts- med/tall, shoe 10 1/2 men's
His needs - Clothing, socks, shoes, underwear and sleepwear.
His likes are: Glow in the dark stuff(for wall's and ceiling), Lego set's, Art stuff(marker's, color's, and color pencils), Race car stuff, He loves to draw houses...and does a really good job of it too...:)
Corie: age 11(girl twin).... Pants 14 1/2..,shirt- Large girls, Shoe- 7 1/2 women's
Her likes are: Make-up(Lt color's to play in.), Jewelry(any kind), Hair stuff( barrette's, hair ties, bows, etc.) Perfume, lotion.
Her Needs: Clothing( Pants, Shirts, coat, Shoes(size 7), Sleep wear, socks, underwear( 5 jrs)

Jamie: age 11( girl twin)....Pants- 15/16jr, shirt-large Jr., shoe- 7 women's.
Her likes are: Make-up, Jewelry(any kind), hair stuff (bows, barrett's, hair tie's, etc), a camera.
Her Needs: Jamie's Needs- coat, sleep wear, pants(size 15/16 jrs), shirts, socks, under wear( size 7 )

All kids could also use new sheets and blankies (twin Size)
12/4/07
We have had a VERY BAD YEAR this year..One of my twin daughter's came down with KIDNEY FAILURE...she has had 1 transplant that failed with in 3 days...they had to remove it. We have spent any money that we had set aside for Christmas on trips to New Orleans to the Tulane Hospital there..we have basically been there all year. I have been talking to Dayle at Citizans group Data Base....she knows we have been threw pure hell. My daughter is now on Hemo Dialysis and waiting for another transplant when one is found.

2/25
Thanks so much for the medical info...We just got one of my 11yr old twin daughters out of the hospital on Monday of last week. She spent 5 days in PICU and another 4 in a regular room. She had a stomach virus and apparently her immune system attacked her Kidneys. That sent her blood pressure up almost into the 300's on top and bottom..she is still not out of the woods yet...we are waiting on test results. She is on blood pressure meds now and will be till the doctors say she can get off of them. She had a kidney biopsy and it still didn't tell them what happened. She lost the use of her legs for some reason but is getting them back now...she is still very unsteady on her feet. They don't seem to know what happened. She had no temp, and all signs were of the virus. So this medical info that you sent might be necessary now. Thanks so much for all you do for your groups and others.
11/28 Update
Sorry It has been so long....We have more damage from October Storms and have yet been Considered a Disaster area again. Fema is again coming today for that. It is a separate disaster from the Hurricane. We have had torrential rain fall, with very strong winds that have caused flooding and more wind damage.

Jean

Jean; Winnie, Dora
Email: - alleymarziacat @ yahoo.com

Location: - Back home in the suburbs of New Orleans.

Number in Household: - 1 human, 2 cats -- Jean, female, 47, two cats, Winnie, male, 15, Dora female, 5

Situation:
After Katrina my husband and I moved four times before coming back to New Orleans nine months after the storm. We had been lucky compared to many, but in order to return to New Orleans we had to sell or give away most of our possessions and we came back dead broke. We were both affected negatively by the instability and uncertainty brought on by Katrina, the repeated moves, my poor health, the inability to find work that could support us and extremely high stress all of this caused.
A week after we returned home, my husband walked out on me with no warning --leaving me disabled with no income, no insurance, no transportation, no place to live and no hope. He has refused any attempt to talk since then. I was very nearly committed to a mental hospital because I sunk so far into depression and desparation that I was unable to function.
Through the amazing kindness of others -- many of them people who never knew me and I have never met -- I recieved comfort, clothing, emotional support and more. I was also taken to a psychiatrist and a doctor to get the mental and physical help that I couldn't get for myself but so very desperately needed. I narrowly avoided eviction, homelessness, committment, loss of my foot to Diabetes and the horror of having to give up my precious cats.
Right now I am waiting to hear about the decision on my Social Security Disability claim -- the spousal support which I am receiving is barely enough to cover my bills and is only in effect until just after the first of the year -- after which I have no idea what will happen or where I will be.
I would love to have a Merry Christmas before I am plunged back into worry and uncertainty. The outpouring of help that was recieved is now gone since over a year has past since Katrina. I do not think that I am entitled to any help, but if someone is ABLE to assist me I would be forever in their debt.

Current Living Arrangements: - Apartment

Help: - Red Cross, FEMA; UU Church members in Hendersonville NC, Jefferson Parish Human Services Authority, Medical Center of LA at New Orleans.

Needs: PRAYERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Foods: Cat food both "wet" and dry -- they prefer Whiskas or Meow Mix Pouches and Purina One Dry but any kind is good! They also love Whiskas Cat Treats.

Human Foods: Soy Nut Butter, Oatmeal, Grits, Bread Crumbs, Cannned Squash, Canned Beets, Canned Turnip, Mustard or Collard Greens. Canned Okra with Tomatoes, Canned Tomatoes (stewed and plain), Raisins, Canned Fruits (low sugar), Splenda, Crackers, Spices -- Mrs Dash and others, Sugar Free Iced Tea Mixes or Sugar Free Drink Mixes, Coffee with Chicory, "Peanut Free" Almonds or other nuts.

Paper Products: Any type and brand, not picky.

Computer Supplies: HP 92 and 93 printer cartridges.

Cleaning Supplies: Again, anything, not particular about brands.

Household Supplies: A "medium" size pot with cover would be great -- somehow I wound up with a GIANT pot and a tiny pot, no nice medium sized one. I could also use a collander, a pair of kitchen shears, a set of knives, a blender, a small food processor, a crock pot and a toaster.

Clothing: I usually wear 6x tops, the brand "Personal Touch" fits very well in a 6x and in SOME 5x - Colors in any combination of black, blue, purple, green, red. For pants I usually take a 4x or 5x in a stretch or "slinky" material in black or navy - the Maggie Barnes brand fits well. For panties I wear a size 15 in a full panty. Bras can be a 54C or 54D depending on fullness of the cup. I could also use a pair of Diabetic Shoes -- I take a size nine in a SIX E width -- very hard to find and expensive. And very large no-elastic diabetic socks.

Stores you shop at: Wal Mart, Winn Dixie, Big Lots, Dollar Tree, and Catherines. I would love to be able to shop at Michael's, Borders, Barnes and Noble, and Amazon.com.

Other: Catholic Bible, Crucifix, small statue of St Gertrude of Nivelles or St Francis of Assisi, St Gertrude of Nivelles or St Francis of Assisi Medal, Weight Watchers Online Membership or membership in another online weight loss program, Sewing Machine, Sewing Light, Scented Candles, Spray Deoderant, Advil or Aleve. Gift Certificates....

I would be happy with ANY of these items "pre-owned" (used) -- [well maybe not the under garments]

11/30
I know that if the distance between us was not so great that we would be terrific friends. You have been a rock for so many people and I really am amazed that you are back helping again when you face such personal and familial challenges yourself!

I have had a few episodes of breathing problems with my O2 sats going down as low as 56 and 65 on different days with 87 or so being about average. But overall I have had more good times than bad.

I got a rollator walker that helps me be more steady on my feet when I have to stand and walk a little. It has a seat so I can flop down and catch my breath when I need to!

Also under the good news category is that I was cleared for and I have been doing a medically supervised Pulmonary rehab program which is allowing me to get moving and to begin building much needed stamina. I have been progressing well because I feel confident nothing will happen while I am being watched and monitored. (or if it does the hospital is connect to the building where I have the rehab workouts)

Unfortunately, I am about 1 month away from running out my coverage for Phase II and the Medicare Advantage plan I have does not cover Phase III at the rehab center where the respiratory therapists work. They feel that once one graduates from the Phase II that going to a regular gym/fitness center should be good. Alas, while I am on 3 lpm at home and 5 lpm when doing simple activities, when I exercise at the Pulmonary Rehab center I am on 8-10 lpm! Plus I am monitored at all times -- partially due to my need for such a high flow (I can still drop to 82 or so on 10 lpm while exercising!) . I am scared that all the good I have done with the Phase II program will be lost when I can no longer go there and work out under the conditions I need to have. They charge $176 quarterly for the Phase III if no insurance is picking it up. THAT would be the ULTIMATE assistance if someone could adopt my rehab!!!

If there is anyone who can help, I could still use a pair of diabetic shoes and some extra wide diabetic socks. Both are in the extreme extra large sizes so I would have to arrange for them to get them from an online source or directly from my podiatrist. He charges $140 for the shoes and the inserts that I need. I only have one pair of shoes -- the ones Medicare allows -- and well, having one pair of shoes is pretty darned sad! LOL The socks are not cheap either ---they are around $13 a pair! I have 4 pairs of socks but I only can wash clothes once every week or so... In between, the socks get a spritz with some dollar store fabric freshener and deodorant....I know, yucky huh?

Speaking of dollar stores, I don't even know if such a thing exists but I do a lot of shopping for cleaning supplies and some basic house items at Dollar Tree. A gift card or certificate for them would be terrific too! As would be a Wal Mart card...I get cat food, my food and almost anything else I need there too...they have the little motorized carts that I can use to get around.

I also would still love a Catholic Bible. The lady with whom I had brief contact last year never followed through. I still use my other Bible but being a Catholic having the special version for Catholics would ease my heart. A small statue or a medal of St Francis of Assisi would be much appreciated as well -- I have sorta adopted him as my Patron because of my affinity for animals.

An extremely lightweight vacuum cleaner would make my life easier and my house cleaner. My normal, heavy vac became too hard for me to use and the little stick vac/electric broom thing that I got from my dad bit the dust -- probably literally with having to pick up after cats. But I have to keep things clear even if it is hard because the lungs can't handle dust. (It takes me up to three hours to vacuum my 500 sq ft apt and the kitchen is not carpeted! LOL )

I know this is a long list and it's still a long shot that anyone will be able to help. As before I would ask that all families with children be adopted BEFORE my name is even considered. Kids have to have Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!

4/5
got the boxes -- thank you SO much...the pots are beautiful and I can't wait to try the sewing machine.

Right now I am not able to stay in my apartment because the AC is broken! It got to 100 degrees in there so me and the cats are temporarily by my parents.

PLEASE let me know if there is ANYTHING I can do to help you out. You've been so supportive and good to me, I really would love to be able to assist you in return!

Thinking of you and thanking God for sending you to me.

2/6
It's Pulmonary Hypertension and some sort of unspecified Obstructive Lung Disease. According to the doctors both are *PROBABLY* related to my Sleep Apnea which is related to my size. (Though hospital food helped me lose about 12 pounds in 2 weeks and I am at my lowest weight in 10 years! LOL Some side effect!)
Despite doing every test in the book (Haha, the resident that was taking care of me actually showed me his little pocket book of conditions and tests etc.) except a Lung Biopsy (apparently, they are 99% sure it is not cancer, so they did not want to risk a biposy where they have to knock me out considering all the other problems I have.) They actually did a couple of the tests twice!
And indcidentally, I was stuck for IVs, arterial blood gasses and other procedures 21 times...and they took 26 vials of blood!
I was the Mystery Diagnosis of the month -- I was even presented at a Lung Conference to see if anyone there had an idea of what else they could do to get a more specific diagnosis...but alas, I remain a mystery...*sigh* I know they say women should be a little mysterious but this is ridickerous...hehe. I am trying to keep my sense of humor since I find this hard to swallow.
1/25
I know you were trying to find me some help and I was totally unable to get back to you or get emails for two weeks...because I just got back from two weeks in the hospital --- I have lung problems and I am going to have to be on home oxygen. They also prescribed medicines that would cost about $1000.00 a month. Since my income is ZERO dollars a month....it bodes not so well for me.

Carol + 5

Carol R, Ashli, William, Amber, Alexa, Connor

Email: crandall0523 @hotmail.com

Location: Pre-Katrina - I lived in St. Bernard Parish, just outside of New Orleans
Post-Katrina – Lived in California for a year.
Currently – Living in a Fema trailer in Picayune, MS

Number if Household: Six
Carol – 41 years old
Ashli – 21 years old
William – 19 years old
Amber – 13 years old
Alexa – 1 year old
Connor – 7 months old

Situation: I rented in St. Bernard prior to the hurricane. We lost everything except for a couple days worth of clothes. I had renters insurance which doesn’t cover flood, therefore they didn’t pay me anything. Because I had renters insurance, Fema did not pay me either other than rental assistance until I got into the Fema trailer.
After the storm hit and we were here and there for 3 weeks, we went to CA upon the request of some friends to stay with them. I was able to get my kids into a temporary stable environment and back into school (my son was a senior and my daughter in 6th grade). We finally found an apartment and ended up staying in CA for a year waiting to see if we could get a Fema trailer back home.
We got the Fema trailer in August 06 and moved back. My employer held my job for me, however now I am traveling 40 minutes each way. I used to be 10 minutes from work. I cannot afford the high rents so we are still in a Fema trailer.
I am trying to find a higher paying job so we can get an apartment, but right now all of my income is consumed by utilities, gas to travel to and from work, food and other bills. Our lives are still far from settled.
We applied for Fema, Red Cross and Salvation Army help.
Like others, we received a debit card from the Red Cross just after the storm and used that for clothing, etc. We received help from a church in CA of furniture, food gift cards, etc. but had to give the furniture away to other evacuees when we moved back to MS.
My husband lost his job in January 07 and with the stress of the hurricane and then that, our marriage didn’t survive. He and I have been separated for 4 months, so I am going this alone now. Trying to do all I can for my children, grandchildren and myself.
Any help would be greatly appreciated especially with the holidays coming.

Current living arrangements: Fema trailer in Picayune, MS

Help Rec’d: Rental assistance from Fema while renting (now in Fema trailer)
Food Stamps after storm (for 6 months)
Red Cross debit card in 9/05
$100 from Resurrection Life Church toward utility bills

Needs: Any food or household supplies

Clothing:
Amber - 12/14
Alexa – 24 months
Connor – 12 months

Gift Cards:
Walmart (for food or other items)
Winn-Dixie
Penney’s
Target
Aeorpostale

12/1

As I said before, I know that many people think that everyone who went through Katrina must be settled by now, but that is far from true. We struggle daily with the loss of our town, community of friends and just dealing with the fact that overnight our lives have been changed forever...but in the end through our own determination and the help and kindness of others, our lives will be repaired and hopefully we will be stronger human beings. We have learned that there are wonderful people in this world such as you, who can and will make a difference in many lives...and on behalf of myself and my family, I thank you for that.

Christie S + 2

Christie, Husband and Son
Email: Sutfinmom @ bellsouth.net
Location: Hattiesburg,ms
Number in Household - 3 husband (disabled) 45; son(several learning disabilities)8; self(disabled)31
Situation - rented mobile home during storm it was ruined. Between my grandfather and me we got a small 3 bedroom trailer for our family. no fema help
Needs - I am in serious need of electric assistance
we live on disability and its hard just to make ends meet and now my husbands sister is dying of cancer they also need help. I worked until I was diagnosed with dysplasic hips on both legs.
***need electric and gas bill help all of or agencies are out of funds Please help!**
Any help would be a God send!

boy(9): electronic games and board games, army, eyeclopse--
mens med. shirt,
mens 40x30 pants,
mens 9 1/2 shoe, socks
mens large Underwear ( colored boxer briefs)

girl(12): make-up, lisa frank sets(stickers&stationary), music, purses--
ladies med. tops,
ladies 9 1/2 shoe, socks
jr. size 14/16 pants

self(32)
size 22/24 womens pants ,
xxl shirts,
10 shoe, socks
40D bra,
10 panties

Husband (46)
size 2 or 3 XL underwear (regular briefs colored) ,
socks have to be really stretchy feet swell bad!,
shirts 6XL,
pants 5XL

Family Needs
towels, wash clothes,
laundrey soap,
bath soap, shampoo
Dish Soap etc.

it is so hard just to catch up i dont think i ever will thank goodness for people who care!

Stores wal-mart. mostly at the discount stores to make money last a little longer

Thanks
Chris

Cheryl B

Cheryl B; Terceira

Email: bluebiloxi20022001 @yahoo.com


Location: I lived in Long Beach MS before the storm and now I live in Biloxi I plan on staying in MS for a long time as long as I can survive

Number in Household: Terceira, Female, 4 Cheryl, Female, 39

Situation: My daughter and I have moved about 6 times since the storm I finally got an apartment but have truble paying my bills. My daughter has asthma and I suffer from Bipolar and I have no family and friends to help me with my daughter when she is sick so I have missed time at work plus I am having problems getting my meds so there are times it is really hard for me to function.

Current Living Arrangements: - Apartment

Help: FEMA, St Vincent

Needs:
Foods - non-perishable only
Paper Products - Napkins, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels
Household Supplies - Light Bulbs, Tall Kitchen Garbage Bags, Trash Bags, Cook Ware, BED, Assistance With Bills, PLUS if I can have anything in this world I would love a HOME of my own for my daughter can play and have a pet that we lost in the storm
Gas Cards
Stores You Shop At: Walmart

11/1/07
My name is Cheryl and I have a 4 1/2 yr old soon to be 5 on the 1 st of Jan and I don't have the means to get Christmas. My job has cut my hours down to 3 days a week, I am 3 car payments behind and I am in the hole in my checking account and I just dont know what to do. If you need a list of what she would like please let me know. God Bless Cheryl

11/26 - am waiting for her to check her mail again to get the list - L

Miriam

Miriam W, Shanthenia, Alexis, Mia and 2 dogs
Email momov31@yahoo.com
Location: - Lived in Mobile, AL. Now in Prichard, AL not sure i would love to be settled working and at peace
Number in Household: - me-35, shanthenia -13, alexis-8, mia-7 all females 2 dogs rosie and sophia both females
Situation: Our house flooded and because I was a renter I didnt get as much help as the person who owned the house. And what I did get I used for rent until the house was cleaned and fixed. Once we got back in a few months later, my 13yr old girl was sexaully assaulted and we had to move. Well we didnt have to - I chose to move because the guy stayed around the corner and I didnt feel my child should suffer any more from him waiting on the police to do their investigation.
So I found a nice man who let us move into one of his houses and pay him rent in parts. I'm also in the hole so as you can see there really will not be a Christmas for my girls. I'm separated, no job, fighting a disability case in court, I get very little a month in child support.
I applied for a sub position at the school board and passed but I cant afford to pay for the background check and transcripts and sub certificates that I have to have before I can be placed on a job.
I just want to get Christmas help for my three girls.
Current Living Arrangements: - renting a house and i start receiving section 8 on the 15 of this month
Help: - I've gotten summer clothes and some household items
Needs:
Pet Supplies - Dry Dog Food, Flea control stuff
Paper Products - Napkins, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, etc. all if its not asking to much
School Supplies - paper, pencils, crayons and long sleeve school shirts (red,dark blue or white)
Cleaning Supplies - bleach and pinesol
Household Supplies - drinking glasses or cups, spoons and forks
Clothing
shanthenia-13 size 18/20 xl, shoe size 10.5 adult
alexis-8 size 10/12 preteen girls, shoe size 2.5 girls
mia-7 size 7/8 girls. shoe size 12.5/1
Stores you shop at for possible gift cards or gift registry walmart,kmart, target

11/26/07
sorry it's taken awhile to get back to you, but we have moved. We were staying with someone who stole from us so we had to stay in a shelter and now we have been blessed with a home, so we are starting over again but we have a roof over our head.

12/22/06
i've gotten some help from some very lovely big hearted people and i'm so very thankful. but it seems a dark cloud follows my sun. i applied for a sub job with the school and was offered a job if i got the materials needed to work for the system you know background, diploma tb test and other things, well i didnt have it because right now i'm only getting 52.62 a week in child support.
i've been out of work fighting my disability case, it didnt work out but my dr found what may have been causing my problem all these years we hope i have surgery on 1-11-07.
ok i keep drifting off well the nice angel on here made it possible for me to get the stuff needed for the job but it took awhile to get the money so they had put someone else in the spot and now i'm waiting for a opening to come up. i thought that was gonna be my way to have a xmas and get winter clothes and things, oh let me say i got 75.00 from gbangels and i bought three packs of underwear, four long sleeve school shirts and a pair of school shoes for my baby girl.
i dont know if i was wrong to do that i know i was to buy toys but they really needed those things and i still wrapped them. they are very good kids so i pray they understand why mommy did it. but i'm trying to see if any one has any used boots or tights. i cant buy them because my light bill is 149. and my water bill is 64. so as you can see i have nothing to spare but i've asked for a raise on my child support and after my surgery i'll be back on the job hunt.
i know we are so blessed and are a lot better than we were a few months back so if we can be last on the list its ok.
if any winter clothes are availible my kids are size 8 girls, 12 girls, and 1x adult. they will need the winter clothes because i'm not sure the gas will be on next month i try to pay lights and water and put what i can on the gas bill.
thank you for letting me post.
i'm with other groups but if anyone helps i'll let you guys know. again thank you and God bless

Jessica L

Jessica L; Johnathon

Email: jeessiiee_77 @ yahoo.com
Location: I was in Kenner. Am now in Metairie, LA. I hope to have ound a sense of stability that has not returned since more than a year ago.
Number in Household: Jessica (29), Johnathon (10)
Situation: I evacuated for about 2 months, moved to an apartment near family - it burned. Moved to another apartment with friends, lived in my car and in a FEMA for 2 weeks. Finally found an apartment to share with a roommate who left in September without giving notice or rent. I've been working 7 days a week at 2 jobs trying to catch up. We are still sleeping on air mattresses.
Current Living Arrangements: 800/mo 1 bedroom apartment (was 450 before storm
Help Received: FEMA, Red Cross, Miami FL TV station

Needs:
Food: - Anything would be greatly appreciated
Paper Products: paper towels, napkins, TP
School Supplies: My son has only 1 uniform and I don't have daily access to a washer/dryer.
Clothing:
Johnathon - age 10
Shoes - Men's size 10-10.5
Shirts - L or XL
Pants - 36x30
He loves button down shirts and dark colors. (I'll find out what the school uniform is as well)
Jessica - age 29
Shoes - size 11
Shirts L or XL
Pants - 16-18
I need jeans desparately, and also need clothes for casual business (slacks and dress blouses) "Tall" works best, but can wear "average".
Household Supplies: We still need cookware and bakeware.
Stores You Shop At: Target, WalMart, KMart, Bed Bath and Beyond, Linens and Things.

11/20/07
Johnathon and I are living in West Monroe, LA with my mom.
My dad has recently passed away.
We came up here in December after the business I was working for closed due to the landlord raising the rent.
After that I just decided to take a break from New Orleans and come and spend some time with my father who had cancer. So since his passing we have stayed to try to help.
Not too many employment opportunities up here so help this Christmas would be great. He is 11 and he loves video games, the Saints, football.

11/23
The Real List!
any WWE action figures or anything to do with WWE or wrestling
Jeans: 34 x 29; Shirts - men's medium or boys XL
any transformers
Ladder Match (WWE)
Modern Warfare (video game for xbox)
Call of Duty (video game for xbox)
The NOLA Saints
Football

Ginger, et al

Ginger B, Christine, Valory, Sara, Robin, Brittany, Kodey, Nick


Email: ginbax@yahoo.com
Location: Lucedale, MS
In one year’s time, Ginger hopes to have a place of their own for herself, Sara and Valory.
Number in Household: 8
Pets:
Baby Girl: 5 y.o. female dog.
Sunny: Baby Girl’s pup - 6 months old.
Gypsy: 1 y.o. dog
Some times it is hard to feed them, they do not get as much as they need from table scraps.
Dogs needs: Flea & tick collars, shampoos, any kinda canned dog food, heart worm and worm medicine.
Situation: Three weeks prior to Katrina, Ginger, Sara & Valory moved in with Christine, out of necessity of needing housing. Robin and her children moved in with Christine February 06, as her home has mold
Crowded living arrangements causing ill feelings, affecting the children’s grades. Children had no Christmas or birthdays since Katrina.
Christine applied for FEMA right after Katrina 05, denied. Not enough damage, though the trailer leans & leaks.
Current Living Arrangements: All 8 of us living in Christine’s 14x80, 3-bedroom trailer. Christine & Robin share a room. Boys sleeping on living room couch & floor. Sometimes all the kids sleep on the living room floor.
Two older girls sleep on a mattress on the floor of one bedroom. Ginger and Valory share one bedroom.
Help Received: food stamps. All children are on Medicaid. A local church.
Needs: Ginger and her children need a home. Robin and her children need help cleaning their home.
Foods – (even with food stamps we do run low, or out before the next month)
Canned goods: whole kernel corn, sweet peas, pork & beans, tomato's, tomato paste, tuna, chicken, beef, pork, mixed fruit, peaches, pears, evaporated milk, mixed veggies, potted meats, beanie weenies, soups, spaghetti sauce, pasta.
Jell-o, puddings, coffee, tea (regular and herbal), coffee creamer, sugar, flour, spices, seeds to grow herbs.
Jellies would be good (any).
The children would be tickled over any type of sweet goodies, they say no licorice, please.
Paper Products – Napkins, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, Paper plates, Wet wipes.
School Supplies – notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, loose notebook paper, binders, book bags, crayons, erasers, glue.
Computer Supplies – paper, ink Lexmark Z23 (black & color)
Cleaning Supplies – Windex, Dish washing liquid, Surf laundry detergent, dishwasher detergent, Dial liquid soap, 409, comet, latex gloves (size large), broom, rag mop, dust pan. Toilet brush.
Household Supplies – light bulbs, air fresheners, 13 gallon garbage bags, batteries (AAA-C), freezer bags (zip lock type, quart & gallon size), zip lock type sandwich bags, Lysol, coffee filters. Stores you shop at Wal-Mart & Local groceries.
Personal items - Deodorant, feminine products (pads), shampoo & conditioner, soaps, razors, baby oil, baby powder, hairspray, body wash/scrubs, body spray (guys and gals), lotions, Tylenol, Aleve, cough syrup, cold and sinus medicine

Clothing
Christine: 69
Pinks, Blues & earth tones.
size 24 pants/jeans and shirts (button ups or T-shirts).
Bra - 44D (no under wire please, white or beige) Panties - Size 13 any color (she likes the silky fabric, rather than the cotton).
Shoes - 10 wide. Socks - ankle socks size 10 women's (tennis & dress).
Mother says she would love an electrical drill with both forward and reverse.

Ginger: 46
Purples & earth tones.
size 3X-5X in t-shirts (Ginger is long waisted, so over-long shirts would be more appropriate than shorter shirts, this one is a girlie girl, likes frills...loves sweaters when cold weather.).
28 tall women's, in pants/jeans, 3X in stretch pants and shorts.
Bra - 44DD (no under wire please, any color) is allergic to fiberfill, no need of padded bras.
Socks - Size ladies 9/10 anklets and crew cut (any color).
Shoes – 8 1/2 Wide/Extra wide (hard to fit, as wide foot and high instep) (tennis & dress)

Robin: 32
Black (think subtle goth style)
Shirts/T's size S-M.
Skirts/pants/jeans size 0-4 women's.
Bra - 36A
Panties - Ladies size 6/7
Socks - Ladies size 9/912
Shoes - 9/10 (tennis & dress)
Would love to have hair accessories and scrunchies.

School uniforms for children: Khaki, navy for pants, skirts and jumpers. Navy, light blue & Maroon for shirts. Socks - white, navy, maroon.
Sizes as follows.
Also, Brittany had all our cosmetics with her during a sleep over, and left them in the car, her things were stolen, along with all of our make up. If anyone would like to send any make up, she would feel so much better about it. (email me for types)

Brittany: 15 years.
Camouflage, pinks, blues.
Shirts/T's size M-L ladies.
Skirts/pants/jeans size ladies 6/7
Bra - 36B
Panties - ladies 6/7 (any color)
Socks - ladies 9-91/2 anklet & crew (white for school, any color for home).
Shoes - women's size 9-10 (tennis & dress).
Would love to have hair accessories and scrunchies.
Brittany's Christmas Wish
Clothes and make up.CD's - Country & RapDVD's - Comedy & Horror

Kodey: 14 years.
Red, black, & green.
Shirts/T's - boys size L
Pants/shorts/jeans - size boys 18 regular
Boxers only - size 16/18 (any color).
Socks - 9-91/2 crew (white school and any color)
Shoes - men size 91/2 - 10 1/2 (tennis & dress).

Kodey's Christmas Wish
Model Cars & Airplanes
Playstation-II Games
DVD's - something 13 year old boys would like.


Sara: 13 years.
Pinks, blues.
Shirts/T's size M-L ladies.
Skirts/pants/jeans size ladies 6/7
Bra - 36B - 36C (any pastel color)
Panties - ladies 6/7 (any color)
Socks - ladies 9 - 91/2 anklet & crew (white for school, any color forhome)
Loves toe socks.
Shoes - women's size 9 - 9 1/2 (tennis & dress).
Would love to have hair accessories and scrunchies.

Sara's Christmas Wish
Jewelry or stuffed animals.
Something pretty to sit on her dresser or something she can use.
CD's Country (her favorites are Faith Hill, Carrie Underwood, Nelly and Kid's Pick)
She just had her ears pierced, and would love to have some earrings.Make up and finger nail polish.

Nick: 11 years.
Yellow, blue & orange.
Shirts/T's - boys size L.
Pants/shorts/jeans - size boys 16 husky.
Boxers only - size 14/16 (any color).
Socks - 9-9 1/2 crew (white school and any color)
Shoes - size 8 1/2 - 9 (tennis & dress).

Nick's Christmas Wish
X-Box Games
Playstation-II Games

Valory: 7 years.
Purples, reds/magenta, blues, (just any, she named off the rainbow)
Jumpers/dresses - size 12 -14 chubby.
Shirts/T's - child's size Large
Pants/shorts/jeans - size 12 - 14 chubby.
Socks - anklet & knee highs (white, navy maroon for school, and any color for home)
Loves toe socks.
Shoes - girls size 10 wide or 5 1/2 = actually better to fit her, than not.
Would love to have hair accessories and scrunchies.

Valory's Christmas Wish
Children's DVD's (she loves watching these!)
Mermaids
Brat dolls
Coloring Books
Hand computer like games such a a Game Boy and games.

Christine: 70 years.
Pinks, Blues & earth tones.
size 24 pants/jeans and shirts (button ups or T-shirts).
Bra - 44D (no under wire please, white or beige) Panties - Size 13
any color (she likes the silky fabric, rather than the cotton).
Shoes - 10 wide. Socks - ankle socks size 10 women's (tennis & dress).

* Mother-Christine says if you have an old ladies Christmas wish list, she would love an warm winter blanket, however her bed is a king.

Ginger: 47 years.
Purples & earth tones.
size 3X-5X in t-shirts (Ginger is long waisted, so over long shirts would be more appropriate than shorter shirts, this one is a girlie girl, likes frills...loves sweaters when cold weather.).
28 tall women's, in pants/jeans, 3X in stretch pants and shorts.
Bra - 44DD (no under wire please, any color), is allergic to fiberfill, no need of padded bras.
Socks - Size ladies 9/10 anklets and crew cut (any color).
Shoes - 81/2 Wide/Extra wide (hard to fit, as wide foot and high instep) ( tennis & dress)

A Christmas wish from me would include any item that is for crafting, as I do enjoy decoupage, crotchet, knitting, painting, drawing and other creative crafts.

Robin: 33 years.
Black (think subtle goth style with this one.)
Shirts/T's size S-M.
Skirts/pants/jeans size 0-4 women's.
Bra - 36A (any color & black)
Panties - Ladies size 6/7
Socks - Ladies size 9/912
Shoes - 9/10 (tennis & dress)

Would love to have hair accessories and scrunchies. Or a warm ski suit, since she freezes even down here.

11/1
I'm writing online articles for http://www.need-an-article.com/.
I've been asked to be one of their proofreaders as soon as they have the system set up, which will mean more money and a diversion from continually writing, so that will make a nice change.
They are also soon to begin a new Choose a Writer program and then clients will be able to choose the writer they want to work with, rather than sending a request and it being randomly picked by a first come first serve basis or the open bin.

This means that we will be able to charge our own rates, we also have an option to set our price, yet be able to negotiate with the client concerning the request and the amount they pay.

This will also mean more money. Thank goodness. :)

So, if you run into anyone who needs an article, send them on over and tell them to look for Ginger. :D

The kids are growing, Sara just had her 13th birthday. School is in, and they seems to be doing good, so that's great. Valory loves the first grade and her teacher and is progressing nicely with a B average for her age.

I decided to just go ahead and buy me a storage building when they were on sale at Lowe's. Hoping to have my stuff here at mom's while not having to continue with unit rental. However, I've not been fortunate enough to have someone help me build it yet, so it's still in the box. I'm hoping as it gets cooler that I will be able to round up some help, so I can stop having to pay a monthly storage fee. Then I'll put that money into the savings for a place to live.

5/3
It's wild how time flies, I hadn't realized how much time has past.

Well, the situation with my friend didn't work out, but it's ok...

I was personally invited to a work site for hiring writers.
Seems like real nice people and a real nice place.
No fees to join, plenty of work. However they are particular about their writers being quaility writers.

Actually, being on dial up slows me down a bit, but I have been able to catch some interesting subjects to write about.
It feels good!

I bought a bag of potting soil, but am gonna have to get another before it's all over with, for the container gardening.

I like to plant and transplant with the phases of the moon, I miss last months new moon, but plan to get some planting in during the next new moon.

Although, Valory came in with a poor dead plant that they had planted at school, so I did plant some mint seeds in that, so there would be something growing for her.
They are beginning to sprout out now.

Well, I just wanted to give a little update, since it's been awhile.

Ya'll all take care, and watch out for those scammers, their on this like hungry dogs. So before you just click them an email back, go to google or any search engine, type in their email address + spam and if they are frauds you should know fairly soon.

Do not give your info out to just anyone, cause there are folks out there just preying on anyone they feel they can.

Take care and keep smiling, before too much longer, it'll be better!
3/29 I'm thinking I might just see if I can find some pots and just make a container garden, and not worry about the ground, as far as planting goes.
The kids liked the candy. Thanks!
There's a church here that has a yard sale every so often, we went there this weekend and bought some things.
I'm talking with a friend, he works on a ship, but he wants to fix houses and sell them. He wants me to look into doing that and we'll partner up.
He'll foot the money, if I foot the brain work.
I'll have to research to learn how to do it, then fill him in on what's what.
He wants to buy a house.
He'll let me and the kids live there, so someone's there while he's on the sea.
He works 4 1/2 months, and is only home for 2 weeks, and he wants someone in the house so no one messes around while he's out.
We're just talking right now, so i don't really know to much more.
So, we'll see how this pans out.

2/8
I decided to put some of our things that are packed in storage up for auctions on ebay. I've sold 14 items so far. And have more up now.
We have some things that haven't been used in awhile, and I see that they might be better used in this way to help us, than to just sit in containers waiting for us to find a home of our own.
I plan to add as I am able to afford the fees, as I am not one to get in to far over my head with debt. So, I pay as I go, rather than let it build up to much owing the fees. And I'd rather pay that this way, than to let them collect from my small bank account.
I've talked with someone who is wanting to sell off her webstore inventory, and we've worked out a payment plan that helps both of us get what we want and need for this issue. It's not a great deal of things, but it does take money to make money they say, and I find this true.
I wish I knew how to fill out grant forms, and I'd apply for a grant to help build a business, so if anyone knows and would like to share any tips or links for learning how to apply for grants (single mother or business) please let me know. You can email me, but you'll have to make some reference to this in your subject line as I don't open emails from someone I don't know, or someone who uses a good reference that I know to look for in the emails.
We as a group have gone through many different winter illnesses, getting someone better and someone else getting ill with the same or something different. Thank goodness for Medicaid, as I have no idea how we would be able to get them in to see a Dr. when they need to go.
The kids have their days. Some days are good days. Being cooped up in the house because of cold weather hasn't helped much as they aren't able to just go outside and play. Being cramped up inside sometimes leads to short tempers with all the kids. We try to keep them busy, or just calmed down.
It'll get better as it warms up, so they can spend more time outdoors.
Things are about the same as before, their school grades have picked up a little, but not much. Being in such a small place makes it hard for them to get into finishing up their homework.
Sara has started biting her nails again.
Valory, bless her heart sometimes wets the bed now. I read somewhere, that there were many that have started doing this since Katrina. (which is very sad that all these little people, children are suffering so much because of the effects that it's had on families.)
Brittany's temper has gotten very short, and she finds it hard to just listen to adults, which may just be a teenage thing, but I think if she wasn't cooped up like this it wouldn't be so hard on her. Kodey has brought his grades back up some, but he can do so much better. I think he's bored, but I'm not really sure. Every once in awhile he will wet the bed, I'm not sure why this is, maybe he dreams he's at school. (I've heard other children tell this when they wet the bed and were bigger kids.)
Nick is just Nick, he keeps himself busy with computer games, sometimes he's so quite you'd not know he's around, but sometimes shew! He picks on Valory sometimes. I'm not sure why, maybe that he's not the little fellow in the house and there's someone smaller to pick on. She goes back at him most times, sometimes she just cries.
We try to make the best of whats going on here.
I'd leave if I had somewhere to go. If it were just me, I'd just live in my car or the tent, but I have to think about my children, and I really don't want to live in my car or the tent.
It's just hard being crammed into one small trailer with so many people.
We are always washing clothes and dishes, sometimes we can talk the kids into helping, but most of the time it's one big hassle to get some help. Valory seems to be more help than the bigger kids, and I hope that 'not wanting to help' does not rub off on her.
They are all good kids, they are just having a hard time right now, which is understandable, it's hard on us grown people. And we wish and do what we can to make it better for them.

1/8
Things are about the same here.It is a new year!I'm learning eBay in hopes that there might be a be of income for us, by selling a lot of stuff from our storage unit. I see no sense in our things just sitting in a unit, with no home to be loved in, so I figure I'll see what I can sell. Out with the old and in with the new I suppose. I'm waiting for some people to pay me for my writing.I only know to just keep trying, and somehow I'll come upon where I'm supposed to be.We just need a home of our own, and somehow, we'll have one once more.

12/15
Hello Leslie,I just received a phone call from one of my cousins, she and her family always adopt a Christmas angel off the Wal-Mart trees, since she is an associate. This year she happened to mention it to her mother, who had been talking with my mother, Christine, and found out that we were having a difficult time this season. She called to let me know that they would like to adopt Valory as their Christmas Angel.I wanted to let you know, now to find the kleenex.
12/12 Update
Things are about the same.Though, I was able to get Sara some makeup and Valory a Dora Explorer hand game, and a couple of stuffed monkeys, for Christmas. So far Robin hasn't come up with Christmas for hers though, but there's still a few more days. It may not be much, but hopefully they will have a little something.I feel a bit better now that I have the girls a few things.