"The folks on the Gulf Coast are going
to need the help of this country for a long time. This is
going to be a difficult road. The challenges that we face
on the ground are unprecedented. But there's no doubt in my
mind we're going to succeed. Right now the days seem awfully
dark for those affected -- I understand that. But I'm confident
that, with time, you can get your life back in order, new
communities will flourish, the great city of New Orleans will
be back on its feet, and America will be a stronger place
for it."
-- President George W. Bush
August 31, 2005
U.S. Government Response to the Aftermath
of Hurricane Katrina
The federal government is continuing to support
state and local authorities in leading one of the largest
disaster response mobilizations in United States history to
respond to Hurricane Katrina.
Hurricane Katrina has proven to be one of
the most dangerous storms in U.S. history. Hazards from weakened
and damaged trees, downed power lines, high water, and other
dangers remain. We urge citizens to be mindful of instructions
from state and local officials who have asked that individuals
remain in shelters, homes or safe places until given further
notice. Individuals in declared counties can register online
for disaster assistance at www.fema.gov or call FEMA’s
toll free registration line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362); for
the hearing impaired TTY 800-462-7585.
President George W. Bush declared major disasters
for impacted areas in Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, and
Alabama. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is
actively managing federal assistance to these affected communities
to expedite response efforts and save lives. With these disaster
declarations the federal government is able to bring its full
resources to bear in helping residents in the impacted states
with emergency needs and recovery support.
Small Business Administration - http://www.sba.gov
The Small Business Administration (SBA) will position loan
officers in federal and state disaster recovery centers. SBA
is also prepared to provide help in other states in the eastern
half of the country where the storm may also lead to disaster
area declarations.
American Red Cross - http://www.redcross.org/
The American Red Cross is providing a safe haven for nearly
46,000 evacuees in more than 230 Red Cross shelters, from
the panhandle of Florida, across Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana,
Georgia, and Texas. The Red Cross is launching the largest
mobilization of resources for a single natural disaster involving
thousands of trained disaster relief workers, tons of supplies,
and support. The American Red Cross is asking everyone in
affected areas to remain safely in shelters until local officials
have deemed it safe to leave.
The Red Cross relies on donations of the
American people to do its work. Citizens can help by calling
1-800-HELP-NOW (1-800-435-7669). Because of logistical issues,
the Red Cross cannot accept donations of food or clothing.
