Questionnaire

Contact me with questions at: KatrinaCoalition@aol.com I registered this project as part of the Make A Difference Day campaign. Since I continue to receive emails from both organizations and citizens regarding little money is trickling down to the survivors' level, I feel this is very important. Most people want to help someONE, not something. This site gives them the opportunity to do just that - help someONE.

Information for Individuals I will send you the links of your post, so the information can be edited as needed. I will leave the information of each family up as long as I receive 2 updates a month. I am willing to post up to 3 current pictures (I'll touch them up and resize if needed) and will rotate pictures as new ones become available.

Information For Agencies I know many agencies work with families who are struggling to find the money for their daily living and recovery efforts. I am willing to highlight up to 1 family a week from each organization who contacts me - leaving the information of each family up under the same guidelines as above. You will also be able to send this link to your reader/volunteer base so they can follow the information with less effort on your part.

Please copy and paste the following into an email and answer as briefly, but as completely as possible. I have vertigo, so reading is a challenge!

KatrinaCoalition@aol.com

Questionnaire For Inclusion On Real People Relief

Information To Be Posted on Your Page
Name: - I would like first and last, but please note what you feel comfortable having posted for all to see.

Email: - only contact information public will have about you. You will decide if you want them to know your full information by emailing them.

Location: - where you were; where you are; where you plan to be in a year.

Number in Household: - Please include pets. First names, sex and age of each person.

Situation: – brief paragraph of what you’ve been through, who you’ve applied for help with, what has happened in the last year.

Current Living Arrangements: - FEMA Trailer, Apartment, House, Tent?

Help: - what help, if any, have you received thus far?

Photos: - Up to current photos – can be rotated through as new images are sent.

Needs: Please list preferences; if you’re going to want, you might as well want what you want! Below are examples and in the categories to be listed under.
Foods – non-perishable only
Paper Products – Napkins, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, etc.
School Supplies – notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, etc.
Computer Supplies – paper, ink (give specific cartridges)
Cleaning Supplies – Windex, Dishwashing liquid, Laundry detergent, etc.
Household Supplies – light bulbs, kitchen supplies (pans, pots, etc.)
Clothing – list sizes and style color preference

Stores you shop at – for possible gift cards or gift registry

Information Not Posted
Full Name
Mailing Address
Phone Number

What I Need

Twice monthly updates: - The more often I can update your information, the more frequently your information will be reviewed. People view blogs like an ongoing story. They get hooked on new little tidbits. If I don’t receive updates, the information will be pulled after 8 weeks.

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

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:

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.

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

Shannon W

Shannon W; Trey; Champ

Email: Bamaladyal @aol.com

Location: Bayou La Batre AL

Situation: Lost everything in Katrina. Now my dad is dying of cancer. Lost my job trying to take care of my dad. No hospice or anything like that around here.

Number in Household: - 3, Shannon, Trey, Shannon's mother (13), Champ (dog)

Needs
Clothes - My size is large shirt size 9/10 paints, size 7 shoes.
Mother - same size
Trey's sizes is small man, size18 boys paints,
Food - all non-perishable please and dry dog food for Champ
Household Items - Cookware, Bakeware, Plates, Silverwhere, all cleaning supplies
Bathroom supplies - Pull-ups for her mother - ulcerative cholitis that is no longer operable
gas or gas cards for trips to doctor.

11/1 Shannon's dad passed away about 6 months ago. Since then, she has had to take care of her mother, who has had 4 surgeries in recent weeks for ulcerative cholitis. Hospice is back in the area and assisting, but there is still so much that is needed.

Christmas is weighing heavily on her. Please consider assisting.

3/24 Just heard from Shannon - through IM:
hi .how have you been. just got dad home from hospital. things have really been tough. it is just a matter of time before he is going to be with the lord. i have made peace with it but its still hard
I still need everything for my home. well got to run got a small job got to do thank the lord.

2/4
We need everything bedding, bath things, cookware, plates, silverware just anything to go in a house - the house is fixed, so all we need are the things to live in it some to move back in.
Daddy is doing the same. Better than worse, I suppose.

1/14
Dear Leslie I got a small job. Just 3 hours a day. I just hope Daddy keeps doing better. The job in real close to my father - maybe 2 min. You know we have to drive to Mobile to the docter's - its about 60 miles round trip. Gas is getting hard to make, and so is food. I could use some gas giftcards and some walmart, CVS ,or Target giftcard for meds. I use walmart more. It is cheaper, but CVS is just 5min from my house.

Gina

Gina R., Matthew and Adrianne
Email: gvalence@bellsouth.net
Location: West bank of New Orleans pre-Katrina, Rent now in same are, plan to move above surge zone in Louisiana in 2008
Number in Household: 3 – Gina; Matthew M 17; Adrianne F 16
Situation: Health care worker on duty for Katrina, had to evacuate hospital Tuesday night after the storm. I did not receive FEMA displacement funding. My home was damaged, and I sold to a local couple. Was laid-off in September due to cut-backs. Have found PT work. Current Living Arrangements - rent in same neighborhood.
Help Received: FEMA reimbursement for refrigerator; Red Cross Food: Mostly non-perishables.
Needs
Personal Stuff: Shampoo, soap, baby powder, toothpaste and toothbrushes, Bath Towels
Paper Products: Zip lock bags, paper towels, Toilet paper, paper plates
School Supplies: Notebooks
Computer supplies: Ink Cartridges: HP 56 black, 57 color
Clothing:
Matthew - Men's large Hanes long/short sleeve T's; Converse size 9. Also Matt's pants size is 33/30.
Adrianne - Women's size 8 corduroy or hipster waist jeans; Women's large T's; Converse size 7 ½.
Cleaning Supplies: Dawn, Tide, Bounce, Lysol
Household supplies: baking pans, skillet, utensils
Stores you shop at: Target, Gas is huge expense, Shell, Wall Mart, Barnes and Nobles, Winn-Dixie, Old Navy, Gap, Best Buy

9/5
So much has changed since we have last written. I moved to another house in the same city! I moved on July 1st, 07. An opportunity to rent a smaller house to save a few dollars came around and I felt I needed the change.

Matt did make it to College, we came back for labor day, he looked a little older, litter wiser, till he opened his mouth and well, I'll be nice and just say, the maturation process is still unfolding. He likes the school and I am very comfortable with his choice, so hopefully all goes well.

Adrianne is well. She is a senior this year, and says things like, " my brother is in college", "I'm going to John's", (her boyfriend), "I'm going to apply to college in November"..............lol She is getting taller and prettier as I type.

3/24
Matt is slowly progressing his way to graduation. I think he feels he will miss home. When I left for LSU, I couldn't wait to bolt out of here. But kids these days are not like us..............lol.To change the subject, a ran into a co-worker I knew 15 years ago and she offered some help.She sponsored me with a web company.
Please understand, I am not trying to sell anything.I just feel blessed she believed in me and offered this opportunity.
Please visit: www.marketamerica.com/gvalence/ This company started out as a nutrition company and over the last ten years it grew into what you will see now. I don't know how this can be incorporated into fund raising, but I'm sure the sites can have a custom design where proceeds can go to a cause. I am just looking for feedback. Have fun.

2/15
Yes we are OK. But the tornado hit only 3 blocks away. Many from Westwego, like the other areas are temporarily homeless. Ouch, has Katrina flashbacks when the lights went out. I am off this Friday and planned to go to the shelter and help.

1/31
Well poor Matt must have been feeling a little overshadowed, because he reminded me that in less than 19 days he was going to turn 18. Of course I didn't forget, it's just that all the buzz is about Adrianne at the moment. His birthday is February 16 and yes he will be officially a man! He is researching which party he wants to join because he will rush in on his birthday to register to vote. I told him he can have some friends sleep over and I will probably give him a gift card, which he can use later this year when he settles into college. When he gets to Nicholl's he will need to shop for dorm stuff. Men never think of these things so us women do..........lol Also I have a friend that will get him a campus job. So he is fine. I will just pack him up later this year and send him with lots of love and a part-time job
1/14
I can assure you all I would have written sooner..........but the moral of the story is "be careful what you wish for"..........lol. About Jan 3, 07 the official notice arrived that I was now Full-Time. I am not complaining, but we have been working constantly due to 2 inspections due this month. Most Medical Labs are accountable to standards of testing and reporting. CAP and JAHCO are agencies that are both coming to the lab this month for inspections. Which translates to work, clean, work, clean, paperwork, clean.........I think the pattern keeps repeating till infinity. I found some free time and wanted to send ya'll a note and say all is good and things are working out

12/13
And great news, My manager got the news that a Full-Time position has been approved for me and another co-worker! Amen sister. The last hurdle is to exact the date this will go into effect. Maybe I am a fool, but I was so happy to hear the news, I volunteered to work the night before Christmas in exchange for having New Year's Eve off. No one likes to work Christmas Eve but between you and I, it is my way of giving thanks for this blessing. Hopefully soon, I will be able to aid your efforts. You may never know how much your friendship has had given me courage and support. You, Bonnie and Gary have helped, not only with the material gifts, but the combined moral support has truly moved me. Please take good care of yourself and your family. And never doubt how many lives you have touched with your pursuits.

12/1 I went to the pharmacy today and the discount card saved me at least 40%. This such a relief. I think last e-mail I told you I was working at little more, which is great. I stayed home 2 days when Adrianne was sick, and since I am PRN, I do not get paid. I am not complaining, just stating a fact. It is turning colder here, as it is all across the country. For us, the best part is a decrease in the humidity. Both of the kids read, a lot. Matthew reads Steven King, Adrianne likes Jane Austin, and I am hooked on Edith Wharton. I am sure I told you, Matt made the score for his college entrance. He may like books on spices and herbs. Adrianne also took the ACT and scored the same as Matt "21". She is junior and has not decided on any major, and wants to take the test again. So next year she will. She keeps journals, so a nice journal book is a nice idea. I hope I have given you some more information for the update. You have done so much already. Have a nice weekend.

11/5 Updated
I just finished working 2 nights shifts, 11p - 7a friday and 7p -7am saturday night. I feel quite loopy right now........lol. Just wanted to touch base with you. I check the "post" on real people relief from time to time. The blog is really interesting, and I hope the other families get some relief. I have been sorting though some of the multiple blog information and this organization has clothing for families. Anyway, I will try to call them tomorrow to see if they have any extra's for the kids. Well, I hope you and your family is good. We are hanging in there, and busy with the daily toils of school and studies. My work schedule has picked up to 3 days a week and there is still a GOOD chance of me going fulltime in the near future. Take care. Have a good weekend.

Anna

Anna Hatch; Brittany L, Austin L

Email: annahatch@bellsouth.net

Location: - Vancleave MS before Katrina and now.

Number in Household: Anna, Female, 32; Brittany, Female, 14; Austin, Male, 12
Gucci, Female, (my little chihuahua); Milenko, Male, (the Ball Python) and Sasha, Female, (My BIG Golden Retriever who was left here after Katrina - and her owner never came back for her! So, I took her in!)
Situation: – We evacuated right before Katrina. They brought us a FEMA trailer last winter right before the first real cold spell.. and it was nice to have heat... but they took it several months ago.. so now we are back in our home.. and back to extra blankets and really quick showers!! brrr In a year I hope to be 1/2 way to a degree in Biotechnology and have the repairs we need taken care of!


I am a single mother of 2 who has never been able to collect child support.. so you can imagine how i struggle in even the most normal circumstances! I live on the Mississippi Gulf Coast - We evacuated right before Katrina - to my Dad's house in Alabama.. not knowing for weeks if I even had a home to go back to! Luckily, I did.. along with the damages Katrina brought! I STILL don't have heat.. and have bad electrical problems!

We came home 6 weeks after Katrina - and started trying to put our lives back together.. but it's been one thing or another ever since!!
I have Fibromyalgia and Rheumatoid Arthritis... even at the age of 32 - which it makes it even harder!
I lost my job... and had to get another with MUCH lower pay and NO benefits.. have had car problems.. had our home phone shut off several times in the past year... and ALMOST had electricity turned off a couple of months! Bill collectors calling and all I can do is tell everyone I need more time! Not to mention the kids had to deal with whatever I was able to afford when their birthdays came around.. (which wasn't much, but they didn't ever show their disappointment! They know what I have been going through!)
2 months ago I found out my Dad had cancer again (for the 3rd time) and there was nothing else to do because it had spread all over! So I borrowed the money to get there... and he passed away less than a week after I got there! When I came home, I had to deal with the loss of my father as well as the bills and things (which I was now another week behind on due to leaving town.. and the money I borrowed to go up there!)
About 5 weeks later, I got the call that My Brother died while he was working offshore... and when my Mother heard the news.. she had to be rushed to the ER with chest pains! They said it was a minor heart attack! So we buried him last weekend and now - here I am again in an even worse situation... Grieving... with bill collectors down my throat!
And struggling just to keep the lights on and the necessities taken care of for the kids! I don't like asking for help... but maybe that's what it will take to chase away my Personal little Black Cloud that's been hanging around! Now it's Xmas.. and there aren't any presents under the tree! And I have already talked to the kids about not expecting much! They are great kids! Never hear them complain! Even though I know it has to bother them!!
I have applied for assistance through FEMA and Red Cross... I got the kids "adopted" on a website last Christmas.. which was very nice for that family to do for us!
Thank you for your time reading this.. and Merry Christmas to you all!
~ Anna, Britt & Austin
Current Living Arrangements: Living back in our damaged house, with no heat, since they took our FEMA trailer!
Help: The FEMA payments they gave to everyone else and a trailer until spring. I accepted food and basic household items from a couple of local churches in my area!
Needs:
Foods – canned or boxed foods (ex. hamburger helper, rice, cake mix, mac and cheese, potatoes etc.)
Paper Products – Napkins, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, Paper Plates etc.
School Supplies – notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, calculators etc.
Computer Supplies – Paper, Printer, maybe a spare used computer that I could use for my Online Classes coming up!
Cleaning Supplies – All Cleaning Supplies, Dishwashing liquid, Laundry detergent, Sponges etc.
Household Supplies – light bulbs, trash bags, utensils, kitchen supplies (pans, pots, etc.)

Clothing –
Anna (32) <> Pants - Size 9/10 or Medium..<> Shirts - Medium..<> Jacket - Medium..<> Shoes - 7 {My favorite color is White.. and I dress in about the same style as my daughter.. fun and casual.. not very dressy unless it's a special occassion!)

Brittany (14) <> Pants - Size 1/ 2 or Small <> Shirts - Small <> Jacket - Small <> Shoes 6 to 6 1/2 (Britt's favorite color is probably blue. She likes what she calls "PREPPY" stuff {American Eagle & Aeropostale}And LOVES anything to do with music)
Austin (12) <> Pants - Size 14 Husky (Some 16's fit too) <> Shirts - Large/ XL Youth or Adult Small <> Jacket - L/XL Youth or Adult Small <> Shoes - Men's 6 1/2
(Austin's favorite color is Green.. He likes the whole "Skater" look! and he LOVES Video and computer games)

(The kids have to wear uniforms to school - Khaki or Navy Blue Pants, Any Shade of Blue Polo or Button Up Shirts, White, or Gold/ Yellow Shirts.. Black or brown belts, any shoes and any jackets they choose)

Stores you shop at – Old Navy, Aeropostale, American Eagle, Walmart, Best Buy, Fashion Bug, Body Central, Wet Seal,

Jerry

Jerry; Carol, David, Aaron, Devin, Dalton, Samantha; A Puppy

email: emsjunkie2001@yahoo.com
Location: - before the storm we were in biloxi , ms...now we are the next town over in ocean springs, ms...its the only place we could could find a house to rent so that we could bring our kids back here in time for the opening of the schools. this time next year??? it was day by day...now its month by month....we'll see about next year when it gets here. we hope to be back in biloxi somewhere on high ground.

Number in Household: 8 - jerry 42, carol 35, david 19, aaron 16, devin 14, dalton 11, samantha 7, and 1 puppy.
Situation: – we lost our house and everything in it. my wife took the kids and went to north mississippi the day before and i stayed untill i had to swim out. fema has helped some and the red cross. with that we were able to put together this hosehold and clothes, school supplies and things and get back to living.
Current Living Arrangements: - we are in a rental house that is costing us about 3.5 times more than what we were paying before.

Help: - fema
Needs:
christmas help for gifts for kids: ps2 games, bratz dolls, cd's, dvd's, fishing stuff
Foods – non-perishable only
Paper Products – Napkins, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, etc.
School Supplies – notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, etc.
Cleaning Supplies – Windex, Dishwashing liquid, Laundry detergent, etc.
Stores you shop at wal-mart, kmart, sears, pennys

Linda M

Linda M; Zecharia, Zenea, Julion, Jared, Anthony, Aryanna

email: justmeandmykidsnva@yahoo.com or lookinatascreen@aol.com .
Location: Virginia Beach VA

Situation: I am currently staying in VA Beach VA. I moved here from Long Beach MS after Katrina and March of 06 my husband divorced me making it even harder. I am currently staying with my sister in a 3 bedroom house with 6 children. I have not recieved any help from FEMA since Feb and this is why I'm with my sister. I cannot afford rent here, but her husband told me I have to be out by Jan 15.
If someone could please help me with a house ANYWHERE!!! I just dont want to risk losing my kids if he really does kick us out. I have tried to get help from all over up here there is nothing anyone will do. My church helps the little they can but I go to a small church and they do the best they can.
NEEDS:
I would also like help with Christmas for the kids. They arent picky anything will do. They are ages 12 (zechariah) clothes size 20 husky in boys, girl age 9 (Zenea) size 10 in girls, boy age 7 (Julion) size 7 in clothes, boy age 5 (Jared) size 5 in clothes, boy age 2 (Anthony) size 3t in clothes, and a girl age 4 mths (Aryanna)size 6-9 mths in clothes.

ANYTHING would help. But all they ask for is a house everyday. My 5 yr old sees the signs for the lottery and is like mommy when i win a million dollars I'm buying us a house. They tell me everyday they just want thier own house. We share 2 bedrooms between the 7 of us. PLEASE PLEASE someone help them get a house we can call home again. Some days I feel like a failure as a mom because I dont have my own house. I can afford rent not much but I can some. Thank you very much for listening to me

Christine

Christine B; Daughter
Email: - house_mouses_mom_1996@yahoo.com
Location: - now Illionis to be ahead for once
Situation: – left abusive relation ship, just struggling single mom looking for my daughter to have a nice christmas
Current Living Arrangements: - trailer not FEMA
Help: - just food stamps and medical - missed all the deadlines for christmas help due to work and counceling apts
Needs:
winter clothes - jeans size 10 junior for my daughter and medium tops
Paper Products – Napkins, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, etc.
School Supplies – notebooks, pens, pencils, folders, etc.
Cleaning Supplies – Windex, Dishwashing liquid, Laundry detergent, etc.
Household Supplies – towels for bathing, light bulbs,
Stores you shop at – walmart, target

12/14
my daughter has still not been adopted for christmas. but we are stillhopping for an angel to come. we finally found out why our gas billswere so high we had a gas leak and so now our bills should go down i hope.hugs chris

Pat

PAT W-F
Email: - RITSARTIST@AOL.COM
Location: - where you were; Waveland, Bay St. Louis
where you are; Bay St. Louis
where you plan to be in a year: Bay St. Louis, Waveland
Number in Household: - 1
Situation: I lost my home and my studio.
Current Living Arrangements: - Have been in an RV for a year+, but hope to be in the a house soon.
Help: - I have had help with art supplies, and a grant from Joan Mitchell?
Photos: http://patwalker-fields.com
Needs: New gallery markets...
2200 Epson Printer

Melissa

Melissa H; Emiley
Email: mhc5477@yahoo.com
Location: I was in Louisiana and am now in Florida. I'm not sure where I will be in a year. I'm hoping that the rent will go down in Louisiana so that I can return and be closer to my family instead of being here in Florida where I'm a stranger and know nobody.
Number in Household: Melissa - 29, Emiley - 12


Situation: Right after the hurricane, my daughter and I lived in a shelter for a month unable to return to Louisiana. The shelter closed and we moved into a hotel and lived there for 2 and a half months. I finally found the place that I am in now (in FL).
Since being here, have been unable to find steady employment. The first job I had was temporary and then I was out of work for 2 months while trying to find another job. Money got tight because I don't live in town and I couldn't afford to keep running to town everyday to look for a job and going to interviews. I have since bounced from job to job.
My car isn't all that reliable and I don't live close to town. The tires aren't good on it either and so I'm often buying used tires as replacements. When it comes to my bills, I get an extention on one bill so I can pay another and this is how it is every month, but I always make sure my rent is paid. I'm currently working part-time for 2 reasons, one because it's money and two because at the time it was all I could find.
My daughter receives SSI and we use that to help make ends meet when I can't. I'm still fighting with FEMA for my personal property loss - that's a joke! Trying to get any help from them for rental assistance is like getting teeth pulled because they want things from me that I cannot provide to them, so that's a lost cause. They found me inelligible for assistance - I give up! I will look elsewhere for help.
Current Living Arrangement: I'm currently renting a mobile home about 16+ miles from town.
Help: none, i didn't know there was any out there really.
Needs:
Foods: not picky, whatever
Paper Products: Quilted Nothern TP, Scott Paper Towels
Cleaning Supplies: Palmolive Dishwashing liquid, Tide Cold laundry detergent
Household Supplies: I would like a nice set of kitchen knives, something that actually cuts instead of having to use scissors, lol.
Clothing: I would prefer giftcards to shop for clothing, shoes, etc.
Stores you shop at: We have a walmart and a kmart

Last year my daughter and I didn't celebrate her birthday or Christmas due to our circumstances. I would like to be able to celebrate this year. I used to be able to take her to the mall to go shopping and since the hurricane haven't been able to do that. I'd love to be able to take her to the stores she used to shop in such as American Eagle, Old Navy, Bath & Body Works, etc.
I used to work fulltime, I had a good job and went to school. But since losing everything and having to move I haven't been back to school and certainly haven't been able to find a job, not a job making what I was before. I would just like for this birthday and Christmas to feel "normal" and not be as depressing and disappointing as it was last year.
If I could sit here and make a list off the top my head of the things I need the most it would be a giftcard to walmart for gas in my car so I can go find a better job, tires for my car so i don't have to worry about getting back and forth and stop wasting money buying used ones, giftcards so we can get some new clothes, shoes, coats and things of that nature, giftcards to buy bedding - cause I would love to go buy bedding for the both of us that actually matches, isn't faded and doesn't have holes in it somewhere.

Chanda L

Chanda LaVigne; David, Blake, Elijah
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smyCZhL4BRU
http://www.realitycharity.com/Chanda/
http://www.rousekennels.com/
Email: - lavignechanda@yahoo.com
Location: - Our destroyed address was Longbeach,Ms. We are now at Picayune,MS. In a year we hope to have a home built on our land which is in Picayune

We have lots of plans for the future but lack of money has got us at a stand still
Number in Household: - Chanda 31 female,David age 57 male, Blake age 12 male,Elijah age 3 male.

We raise American Pit Bull dogs and have too many to list,that is one thing I have recently started doing to make money and just had our first litter,which will be ready for sale in time for Christmas.
If we can sell the pups we want to put the money towards lumber.
Situation: nearly 2 weeks after Katrina we were finally allowed south of the tracks to see what we had left - there was nothing and it went on for miles and miles.We slept in the back of my fiance's truck whereever we could find to park and bathed in the creek and when we went back to the apt. for the first time, a friend told us of a school/redcross shelter where we could sleep in the truck and be safe, get plenty of food and ice. We slept in our truck on their grounds for a week or so and they got us a huge tent and then we moved into a fema camper park, where we lived until a few months ago.
We are now in another fema camper in my grandpa's yard.
Current Living Arrangements: - FEMA camper
Help: - FEMA, Red Cross
My fiance is disabled and I am self employed selling at fleamarkets and online but lost thousands of dollars wurth of inventory in the apartment that fema wouldn't even reconize and had just bought a new computer a few weeks before,this time I bought a laptop so it can go with me if we have to evacuate,I just got internet service a few months ago for the first time since the storm and most people here still dont have it.
I have not gotten any help this year but I just met a lady from Atlanta who is going to bring me all things to cook Christmas dinner.
Needs:
To be honest the most important thing that we need is building materials but you dont have to post that, I know that is a little much to ask for but we do need some cloths and bedding sheets and blankets
School Supplies - My 12 year old needs some uniforms,tan pants and white or navy shirts.Size 30x28 pants and large 18/20 shirts
Household Supplies Queen and Twin Sheets and blankets and some pillows, our pillows are old handmedowns
Clothing
ELI age 3 wears size 4t pants and 5t shirts and 10 shoes
BLAKE age 12 wears 30x28 or 30x29 pants and large shirts and 71/2 shoes. He needs some school tan pants and white or navy shirts and some boxer underwear and socks.
DAVID age 57 wears nothing but jeans and tshirts 40x30 jeans and XLshirts
CHANDA age 31 wears nothing but jeans and tshirts size 14 jeans & Lg shirts
(Side Note - Chanda is also surveying the FEMAville she just moved from for needs - I don't have what she wrote, but their situation is extremely dire. Very little heat - no one can afford propane, many elderly and small children - I think it's incredible that she thinks of them before herself - I met her when she wrote for help for THEM)

6/17 http://www.realitycharity.com/Chanda/
Blueberries For Sale
Hello All,
I Hope everyone is doing good and getting by Ok.I know things get tough sometimes for Katrina volunteers and survivors but just hang in there,things will get better in time.I will keep all of you guys in my prayers.God Bless You & your famlies....
I would like to tell everyone that I have fresh picked Blueberries for sale,please see the attached picture of them.Im going to pick again in the morning and dont have any orders to fill.Any orders will be picked fresh from the tree.Please call or email me if you would like to place an order.
I can deliver them to some places if needed for a few extra bucks.I can also ship them,email me the address for shipping price.
They are $5.50 per 1/2 gallon or $10.00 per gallon.
They are big and so sweet and we have not used any chemicals on the trees since we bought the farm a few months ago.It has not been farmed in at least 5 years.So I guess they are organic berries.

Pit Bull Pups For Sale
Please see our website for pictures http://www.rousekennels.com/.
We have them marked down to $250.00 OBO 5 left

2/23
We are actually considering going ahead and moving to the land we bought without the utilities or having it cleared. We are having a hard time making it in this FEMA park (the manager hates fema residents and harrases us). I'm seperated from my 12 year old son because his school district is in Hancock and FEMA moved us to Pearl River, he is staying with my mother. We have an old RV and a few generators and think we can make do until we can afford to get the utilities and get it cleared. Wish us luck!

1/14
Our fema camper is leaky and very moldy, it's getting worse everyday.There is black mold around almost every window and who knows whats behind the walls.Our family has a headache everyday and our eyes are burning and other sinus and breathing problems,it is the travel trailer,so its a little space anyways.
The day we found it leaking, our inspector happened to come by, we reported it to her a few days after Christmas, they never came so I then called them 3 times since monday the first time they said someone would come in 6-48 hours, the second time she said all she can do is call the contractor and the last time I finally got a lady that said she would put in on emergency status.
I then called a different FEMA number to ask about rental assistance, they said the only way is if we have medical documentation that the camper is making us sick, so I can take my 12 year old to the doctor on medicaid but that will be next week.
But then there's not too many rentals in this area. So until they come out here and see for themselves,we dont know what to do except wait. We can't afford a hotel room and just don't have anywhere to go.
I'm really concerned about the long term effects this may have on our health.I'm hoping FEMA will show up soon. I can't believe people are having to live like this. This is crazy,they should have this mess more organized by now.

1/8
Our fema camper has started leaking and its tricky,it comes from behind the walls and under the floors and cabinets,not to mention the windows. After the last few days of bad weather,I have found all kind of things soaking wet,I mean its 8 x 30 and theres 2 adults and 2 kids so things are packed in here pretty tight, against some of the windows on the bunks and on the floors next the wall.Well theres no telling what kind of mold is behind the walls, I moved everything that I thought would get wet but it leaked in totally different places this time than it did last time,I can smell mold it in the cabinets.

We are buying a piece of property and will be moving an old 6x15 motor home there.The land needs a lot of clearing and doesent have the electric,water or septic.We are also in need of building materials. My fiance is disabled but says he can do the work himself but I would really love to get us some help. He is retired/disabled fireman of 18 years.

1/4 - A video narration of her story:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smyCZhL4BRU

Yvonne T

Yvonne T; Tim; Abbey

Email: yvonnemtillman@yahoo.com

Location: Bay St Louis, MS

Number in Household: 3 Yvonne, Tim and our dog Abbey

Situation: Timmy is/was a shrimper, so we decided to go upriver on the boat to ride the storm out. Little did we know it changed course and we were right in the middle of it. Our house is on a bayou that has never taken on water before. The house had water up to the roofline - and it's already elevated!
It took over 6 months to get someone to assist with the gutting and rebuilding, but we are ever so slowly getting there. I am disabled with back troubles and now hereditary knee troubles, so can't work or help with the house.
Timmy is working in a ship yard now as fuel costs are too high, no ice companies are available and no packers around anymore to make shrimping anything more than a hobby. The gov't hasn't come through for non-immigrant shrimpers, so we have no recovery money there.


Current Living Arrangements: FEMA Trailer

Help: Very little from FEMA, a whole lot from Lagniappe Presbyterian Church!

Needs:
Wheel Chair Lift - it is getting increasingly difficult to get up the stairs to the living area of the house. I use a wheel chair more as time goes on (until surgery is a must), and would like to have the lift for when I can't make it up the stairs anymore.
Tools: Tim lost all of his tools, and would like to have new ones to keep working on the house as well as to be more useful at work.
Furniture: - We lost it all and will have nothing to move into the house with once the house is complete because all our money has been going to building supplies - and that's a slow go due to prices down here! 12/9 The address of Rooms To Go is 429 Pass Rd. Gulfport, Ms. 39507. Phone # (228)864-2462 (if you want to help furnish the house)
Cabinet Hardware - We got new cabinets, but they didn't come with the hardware and WOW that stuff is expensive! Just normal pulls and hinges. Nothing fancy.

Sweater for Abbey - We're getting frosts now and it's just too cold for such a little girl.

Stores you shop at: Walmart is about the only thing in town.

3/25 We finally moved into the house and it looks great! Still alot of work to do, but it can be done living in it. I'm going to get the pictures developed next week and will try to download them so you all can enjoy the fruits of your hard labor. We just can't thank all of you for your work you helped us with and invite everyone one of you to come visit whenever you can or want.
Again, thank you, Love, Tim, Yvonne and Abbey Tillman

2/13
The hard work finally paid off, and 2 days ago we moved back in. There's still odds and ends to do and fix, but at least I'M HOME. It's been such a long haul, and without the volunteers, God only knows how far we'd be. I'm trying to find the disc to download pictures from my camera, and when I do, I'll send them on to you. We're going to get a TV and bedroom set tomorrow, everything is still in a turmoil but I'll be able to organize as soon as I get some dressers, closet poles, etc. Can 't wait to send out the pictures to everyone who has helped and been there emotionally .

1/17
Sooooooo sorry that I haven't been in contact for awhile, but we've been really busy with the house. All the siding is up except for the roof of the deck. The flooring is all in except for the carpet in the 2 bedrooms. I have all the appliances except for a washer/dryer and microwave. I don't have any furniture, except for a table and chairs and box spring and mattress. Most of the doors are up in the house, except for 1 closet door which is an odd size and needed to be ordered. Lagniappe stepped up to the plate with labor to help us get this far. I ran into Pastor Bonnie a couple weeks ago and she said if I needed furniture to call her, so I did and left 3 messages and went up there 2 times, but never got a response. Hope she hasn't had a relapse. I'm waiting for the counter-tops to come in, which should have been in last Mon. but now says it will be today or tomorrow. Hope so, because then Tim can hook up the sinks, shower, and tub.