Katrina's Angels in Action

AL: For Tornado Survivors ONLY - A Free Place to Camp

2012-01-26T15:46:00.000-05:00

A FREE PLACE TO CAMP
A tree service business in Gardendale is offering a free place for storm victims to camp on their 72 acres of land. Riley Tree Service in Gardendale offers the following amenities to anyone displaced by the tornadoes who has a travel trailer and needs a place to stay, free of charge:

water supply
garbage pick-up
no electric hook up, so trailers would need generators

The address for Riley Tree Services is 4889 Mt. Olive Road in Gardendale. Call 205-631-4307 for more info.

Volunteer Opportunities - Hands-On Help

2012-01-26T15:00:00.001-05:00

Various volunteer opportunities are posted daily at: https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels-Inc-Volunteer-Opportunities/197733236936629

Please subscribe, check the board and see what groups may need you for hands-on help!

Thank You for being in service to others,

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

Lost or Found a Pet in Alabama Following the Tornadoes?

2012-01-25T17:03:00.000-05:00

Lost or Found A Pet in Alabama following the tornadoes? ? Check here!

Animals Lost and Found from the Tornadoes in Alabama on 4/27/11
https://www.facebook.com/ALTornadoAnimals
Please let residents know that if they are missing pets or have found pets to please post on facebook.com/ALTornadoAnimals, we started this page after the tornadoes in April, but continued it as a general lost & found pets page and when disasters happen we are still running it as Alabama Tornado Animals. If anyone needs pet supplies or food please let us know by emailing tornadopetsofal@yahoo.com or rescue@haveaheartanimalrescue.com with NEED food/pet supplies in subject. We want to help!

Posted Jan 25, 2012 3:55 PM

Drop off locations for pet supplies and food!

2012-01-25T14:42:00.001-05:00

The tornadoes in Alabama affected animals too. Things needed are Cat litter. Cat food. Dog food. Canned & Dry. Pet treats. Pet carriers. Crates. Bedding. Old Towels. Blankets. Flea/Tick medication. Leashes, collars and harnesses.

Altadena Valley Animal Clinic
2898 Acton Road
Birmingham, AL 35243
205-967-7383

Becker Animal Hospital
1901 27th Ave S
Homewood, AL 35209
(205) 871-2371

Deerfoot Animal Clinic
6030 Deerfoot Parkway
Trussville, AL 35173-2658
Andi at 205-661-9630
Andi.DeerfootAnimalClinic@gmail.com

Dog Days of Birmingham, LLC.
112 18th Street North
Birmingham, Al. 35203
205-458-9364

Fine Pools Moody 205-640-1840
Fine Pools Bessemer 205-425-3463

Keller Williams Realty

809 Shoney Dr

Huntsville, AL

(off the Parkway between Airport Rd and Drake Ave).

Contact Karen Borden karen@karenbordensells.com

Pampered Pet Resort (Hoover/Riverchase)
2193 Parkway Lake Drive
Birmingham, AL 35244-1804
205-397-3197

Parkway Animal Clinic was destroyed

Riverview Animal Clinic
4640 Highway 280
Birmingham, AL 35242-8099
205-991-9580

Tropical Smoothie Cafe
3049 John Hawkins Pkwy. (Sam's Plaza)
Hoover, AL
205-444-0612

UPDATED List of Drop Off Locations in Alabama

2012-01-24T18:57:00.000-05:00

Here is a link with lots of information on drop off locations. Released a little while ago. It is now Tues, Jan 24, 2012 6pm http://toomersfortuscaloosa.com/drop-off-locations-in-alabama/423/

Where A Tornado or Storm Victim Can Get Help

2012-01-23T17:11:00.008-05:00

SHELTERS:

United Way of Central Alabama via AL Red Cross:

Three shelters are open at the following locations:
•First Baptist Church of Center Point - 1945 Center Point Parkway, Center
Point, AL 35215
•Clay Community Center – 6423 Clay-Palmerdale Road, Clay, AL
•Springville First Methodist Church – 6471 U.S. Highway 11, Springville, AL
35146
In the coming days we will be meeting with the families affected and will assist them with their immediate emergency needs based on the extent of the damage to their homes. Affected families should call (205) 439-7800 or their local Red Cross office for more information about Red Cross assistance.

A FREE PLACE TO CAMP
A tree service business in Gardendale is offering a free place for storm victims to camp on their 72 acres of land. Riley Tree Service in Gardendale offers the following amenities to anyone displaced by the tornadoes who has a travel trailer and needs a place to stay, free of charge:

water supply
garbage pick-up
no electric hook up, so trailers would need generators

The address for Riley Tree Services is 4889 Mt. Olive Road in Gardendale. Call 205-631-4307 for more info.

WATER, PLASTIC UTENSILS, PAPER TOWELS

Pleasant Grove, Al Tornado Updates via Scott McClellan If you know of a church in the affected areas of the storms that needs a supply of water, plastic utensils, paper towels, etc. Please have them call Unsheltered International in Cullman at 1-877-277-5838, ext 102.

FREE DOG BOARDING

Tuscaloosa K9 Camp Relief Efforts: Help Us Rebuild
https://www.facebook.com/tuscaloosak9camp.rebuild/posts/287709811290171#!/tuscaloosak9camp.rebuild
ANY AND ALL that were hit by these tornadoes that need a place for their dogs to stay, Camp will house your displaced pet for FREE. Please call 205-998-3342 to make arrangements. God Bless and our prayers are with you all.

Also--
The GBHS is also working with the Red Cross to provide temporary foster solutions for pets of those who have lost their homes as a result of these storms. If you live in a storm-affected area and do not have a safe place that you are able to go with your pet, please contact the GBHS at 205-397-8533.

HORSES

Horse Evacuations East

Special note if anyone is missing their horses or livestock due to the flooding or recent tornadoes. Register them with www.netposse.com They waive their fee for natural disasters. They create a flyer and html page you can share with all info and photo you provide. They also send out email alerts to their many followers and people share them regionally in your area and nationally. Hope this helps anyone missing any animals.

OTHER GOODS

From: T-Town Coupon Queens https://www.facebook.com/#!/TTownCouponQueens
If you know of anyone who was hit by tornado or wind damage, let's spread the word. We couponers have lots of extras and we are willing to share to help those in need!

ROOFING

Elite Roofing is tarping homes. NO COST to homeowners... 999-6196 Chris

Roof Doctors of Alabama will work with anyone or their insurance to help you get the very best possible deal on your repairs. For questions, or if you need tarps, call Renee at 205-907-3100.

Animals Lost & Found From AL tornadoes
http://www.facebook.com/#!/ALTornadoAnimals

January 23rd 2012 Alabama Tornado Victims Hub

http://www.facebook.com/pages/January-23rd-2012-Alabama-Tornado-Victims-Hub/331332150235117?sk=wall

Drop Spots: Severe Tornadoes Have Hit Alabama! Supplies Needed!

2012-01-23T17:01:00.013-05:00

Alabama Drop Spots

This is the main coordination center:
NorthPark Baptist Church, 5700 Deerfoot Parkway Trussville, AL 35173-2632
(205) 228-0030

They are collecting water, snacks, and plywood, and are working with other agencies to assist families.
If you know of people who need assistance, refer them to NorthPark. If you know of people who want to volunteer, tell them to go to NorthPark at 8:00 a.m. They will organize and send out crews from there.

· CHELSEA DROP SPOT: Palm Beach Tan in Chelsea is gladly accepting donations for tornado victims. Things needed: feminine hygiene products, pampers, wipes, canned food, can openers, toothpaste, shampoo, razors, soap, hand sanitizer, garbage bags- heavy duty ones, plastic totes, panties, underwear, socks, tshirts- NEW Underwear- packaged.

DEERFOOT PKWAY DROP SPOT:
Piggly Wiggly parking lot is a drop spot for supplies.

MONTGOMERY DROP SPOT: Drop point in Montgomery is goodwin animal hospital and pet resort....11485 chantilly pkwy.....by cucos mexican restaurant.

OAK GROVE DROP SPOT: Smithville Baptist Church on Toadvine Road for victims and workes in Oak Grove. Snacks, Canned Food, Gatorade, powerade, Water.

PINSON DROP SPOT: contact Cindy 4500 Brittany Circle Pinson, or call 680 5833...have a truck and can take whatever we get in way of donations!!

SHELBY COUNTY:
Via the United Way of Central AL Pelham Police announced a Shelby County Drop Site for donations to help tornado victims. Salvation Army, 108 Plaza Circle, Suite E, Alabaster. (Across from the YMCA) Needed: bottled water, canned food, toiletries, new clothing only, paper products, plastic tubs.

TRUSSVILLE:

Faith Community Fellowship, 7660 Gadsden Highway, Trussville, AL,
205-655-1574, is collecting plastic storage bins and heavy duty garbage bags to help with storing belongings before the rain later in the week! This is a very important need!!

YMCA, 5920 Valley Road Trussville, AL 35173-1071 is collecting food and water. Nonperishable, canned items, poptarts, granola bars, grab and go items. If you take canned goods...PICK UP A FEW CAN OPENERS. CAN OPENERS ARE REALLY IMPORTANT!! Otherwise, folks are just beating green beans on a rock and that's not cool.

WEST JEFFERSON DROP SPOT: WOMAN ON A MISSION HAS A DROP SPOT AT THE West Jefferson High School- Annex Building. Her son lives in Pinson and can carry things back and forth.

Drop off locations for pet supplies and food. Things needed are Cat litter. Cat food. Dog food. Canned & Dry. Pet treats. Pet carriers. Crates. Bedding. Blankets. Flea/Tick medication. Leashes, collars and harnesses.

Altadena Valley Animal Clinic
2898 Acton Road
Birmingham, AL 35243
205-967-7383

Becker Animal Hospital
1901 27th Ave S
Homewood, AL 35209
(205) 871-2371

Accepting donations of pet food, collars, leashes, flea/tick meds, old towels.

Deerfoot Animal Clinic
6030 Deerfoot Parkway
Trussville, AL 35173-2658
Andi at 205-661-9630
Andi.DeerfootAnimalClinic@gmail.com
Accepting dog and cat food donations along with other pet supplies to distribute to families and the humane society
Parkway Animal Clinic was destroyed.

Dog Days of Birmingham, LLC.
112 18th Street North
Birmingham, Al. 35203
205-458-9364

Fine Pools Moody 205-640-1840
Fine Pools Bessemer 205-425-3463

Keller Williams Realty

809 Shoney Dr

Huntsville, AL

(off the Parkway between Airport Rd and Drake Ave).

Accepting pet food donations

Contact Karen Borden karen@karenbordensells.com

Pampered Pet Resort (Hoover/Riverchase)
2193 Parkway Lake Drive
Birmingham, AL 35244-1804
205-397-3197

Riverview Animal Clinic
4640 Highway 280
Birmingham, AL 35242-8099
205-991-9580

Tropical Smoothie Cafe
3049 John Hawkins Pkwy. (Sam's Plaza)
Hoover, AL
205-444-0612

A Huge Thank You to all who helped during 2011, and...

2012-01-09T13:14:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the new year, 2012!!

Last year was a very difficult one as non-profits scrambled to help the victims of disaster sprinkled throughout our country. There were huge tornadoes in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and Joplin, Missouri ─ products of storms also linked to tornadoes and deaths in several other states. There were floods in areas of Iowa, North Carolina, and Virginia and a record flood in Minot, North Dakota that wreaked havoc on a huge area of town. There were wildfires in Texas. Hurricane Irene hit the east coast.

As Katrina’s Angels, we did what we could in terms of providing some small relief to those who lost everything and had to start over. It was a huge job just keeping up with the links to various groups that sprung up on Facebook to connect those in need with those who could help, which we posted here on our blog.

In addition to our Facebook page, Katrina's Angels, we also added two pages to Facebook to help with communications: Katrina's Angels Volunteer Opportunities for volunteering opportunities on the ground in disaster areas, and KA~Irene for connecting everyone involved in the East Coast disasters. All of these pages are available for you to post on if you are in need of help, can or want to help, or can provide any information from the moment a disaster occurs.

Smaller, non-profit organizations ─ including Katrina’s Angels ─ are suffering from the effects of both the recession and the huge costs of helping during some of the worst recent disasters in recent history. Please help us to continue helping others. If we are to answer the call of those in need following any disaster that may hit our country, Katrina’s Angels needs your help more than ever before. Katrina's Angels receives NO outside funding. We rely on private and corporate donations.

Please donate even $1 if you can at http://katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp. Please know that 100% of your donations go directly to providing aid to those in need following a disaster.

Thank you,

Karen Iwicki, President

Christmas Help Will Be needed! Can You Help?

2011-11-02T23:57:00.000-04:00

As Halloween comes upon us, it has come to my attention that Katrina's Angels and other groups on the ground will be working hard to make Christmas a little brighter this year for those who have gone through devastating floods and tornadoes. This year, between the economy and the some of the worst tornadoes and floods this country has seen, more children than ever may not have a bright Christmas. Let's help a little; it could all add up to a LOT of Christmas cheer! Here are some groups looking for some help. Please consider a gift to one of these groups.

A Child's Candy Christmas
(https://www.facebook.com/#!/hardcandychristmas?sk=info)
Our goal is to give Christmas to needy children. In 2011 we will focus on tornado survivors in Alabama. We will gift toys and stockings for children ages 12 and under.
When I was a little girl, the mill where my parents worked would give all the mill worker 's children a box with hard candy and nuts. Some years that was all the kids got for Christmas. We called it a hard candy Christmas. Our goal is to make sure that children have a Christmas. We worked with Alabama's Lost Birthdays after the tornado in Alabama and identified families that will only have A HARD CANDY CHRISTMAS. We are working to get a few simple toys and stocking stuffers for these families. We can use dolls of all kinds, toy cars and trucks, and other simple toys. Thank you for your help.
http://achildscandychristmas.weebly.com

Christmas in Dixie for Tornado Survivors
(https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Christmas-in-Dixie-for-Tornado-Survivors/131828100226212)
We are asking all Facebook friends to tell 2 groups about our collection drive for ornaments, lights and nativity sets. We will only have 2 weeks to collect this after Halloween is off of the shelves. If your group/workplace/club or team will be participating, please email if you need help delivering your collection. We will have drop locations ready for you :) Delivery to families will be one week prior to Thanksgiving.

Hairbows For Hackleburg
(https://www.facebook.com/#!/HairbowsForHackleburg)
How many of you would be interested in filling a stocking for a child in need for Christmas this year??? A few things like matchbox cars, crayons, books,, Barbies etc...anything that you can stuff in a stocking.
There are children in Hackleburg, Phil Campbell, Joplin and MANY Other cities that without our help will have NO CHRISTMAS! Can you imagine that? Would you want that for your child??

Bring Christmas Home to Joplin https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Bring-Christmas-Home-to-Joplin/133598993412829?sk=wall

Joplin Children's Christmas Wish List
(https://www.facebook.com/#!/JBBSXMAS)
Brought to you by Joplin Bigger Better Stronger Foundation! As we move into the Christmas holiday, it's important to remember those still in need. Our main focus is the children (ages 16 and under) who have been affected by the EF5 tornado that ripped though Joplin, Mo. We would like to purchase or have donated NEW items to give them for Christmas. There are still so many families that are doing without and barely getting by.

Joy to Joplin
(https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Joy-to-Joplin/172549742831495)
Please SHARE my page!! I have 26 fans right now and my goal is to have 100 by Tuesday! Please help me help the kids in Joplin! I want to buy Christmas presents for children of 60-75 families that I will be visiting on December 10! THANK YOU and GOD BLESS!

Katrina's Angels
(https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071)
Katrina's Angels would like to provide blankets, toys, food, and other items to families this holiday season, especially in VA. But we cannot do it without your help. With cash donations, we can save on shipping costs, as items could be bought by our volunteers locally and then distributed locally to disaster families in need. We are a 501(c)3 registered non-profit. All donations are tax-deductible.
http://katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp OR info@katrinasangels.org

Project Smiles & Snuggles
(https://www.facebook.com/#!/SmilesAndSnuggles)
Times are still going to be difficult for families affected by the May 22nd tornado when Christmas rolls around. The number one mission of The Twister Sisters is to relieve any stress we can from the women of the storm. Project Smiles & Snuggles is just another way of reaching out and lifting up the these precious women that have the weight of the world on their shoulders. We need your donations! Teddy bears and stuffed animals, blankets and book for kids up to age 10.
http://www.thetwistersisters.org/

Katrina's Angels Receives Thanks from Minot, ND Flood Area

2011-10-10T00:01:00.002-04:00

This was posted Friday by Katrina's Angels Community Coordinator Maarja Krump in ND:

Karen, Thanks so much for the life jackets and many other supplies. One little guy asked if he could use his life jacket to fish, so he kept his for awhile and then we got it back to the sheriff's dept. Its been a busy flood season in ND. Minot and Bismarck saw water in places they haven't had water in over a hundred years. We are still on clean up mode in Minot.

Active Links to Assistance and Volunteering, The Joplin, MO Tornado

2011-09-28T16:01:00.001-04:00

Hi, everyone! I have reviewed all the Joplin, MO tornado-related links, removing those no longer current and adding relevant information to the following list. Please take a moment to look through this whether you are volunteering or in need of help. You just may see a tidbit of information that is helpful to you.

* Adopt A Joplin Classroom!
http://brightfuturesjoplin.org/adopt-an-eagle/

* Anam Cara - Knitting with a Heart
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071#!/AnamCaraKnitting

* Boxtops for Joplin! Rebuild Our Schools (Mail them in) http://www.facebook.com/Box.Tops.For.Joplin?sk=wall

* Bows for Joplin, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bows-for-Joplin-MO/160261554049864

* Chests Of Hope
http://www.facebook.com/Chestsofhope?sk=info

* City of Joplin Homes & Home Repair Assistance Matrix
http://www.joplinmo.org/pdf/rebuilding_tools_grid_table.pdf

* Diapers for Devastation
http://www.facebook.com/DiapersforDevastation?sk=wall
OR 417-622-1799

* Elephants Remember Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Elephants-Remember-Joplin/220561267973508?sk=wall

*F.A.I.T.H (Finding An Individual To Help)
http://www.facebook.com/groups/faithhappenings/?id=234988659883309

* Friends of Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/FriendsofJoplin?ref=ts&sk=wall

* Grace Baptist Joplin Relief
https://www.facebook.com/#!/gbcjoplinrelief

* Grace Disaster Relief (a place for volunteers to stay)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Grace-Disaster-Relief/112620405493389?sk=wall

* Help Us, Help Joplin: Families helping Families
http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/helpushelpjoplin/

* Home School Helpers for Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/groups/homeschoolhelpersforjoplin/

* How Can We Help Recent Tornado Victims?
http://www.facebook.com/pages/How-Can-We-Help-Recent-Tornado-Victims/220059254678206

* Joplin Children's Christmas Wish List
https://www.facebook.com/JBBSXMAS?sk=wall

* Joplin House
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplin-House/232848406754130?sk=wall

* Joplin Job Leads
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplin-Job-Leads/171794096221003?sk=wall

* Joplin, MO: The Man Cave - Support. Donate. Replace. (Men helping men replace their stuff)
http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/253319581352809/

* Joplin, MO Rebuilding Tools Document
http://www.joplinmo.org/pdf/rebuilding_tools_grid_combo.pdf

* Joplin MO Tornado Recovery
http://www.facebook.com/joplinmo

* Joplin's Post & Share
http://www.facebook.com/Postgift

* Joplin Recovery Volunteer Lodging
http://www.facebook.com/JoplinLodging

* Joplin Smile (Free professional photos taken of your family: for disaster survivors)
http://www.facebook.com/JoplinSmile?sk=wall

* Joplin Tornado Assistance Information Line 417-627-2900

* Joplin Tornado Cold Drinks for Volunteers
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplin-Mo-Tornado-Cold-Drinks-for-volunteers/231731683507765?sk=wall

* Joplin Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/joplintornadoinfo

* Joplin Tornado Debris Lost & Found (Photos & documents)
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Joplin-Tornado-Debris-Lost-and-Found/223745274319125

* Joplin Tornado Free Services
http://www.facebook.com/joplinfree?sk=wall

* Joplin Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/joplintornadoinfo

* Joplin Tornado Relief Services
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Joplin-Tornado-Relief-Services/100456800049054

* Joplin Tornado Relief: Volunteers & Donations Info
http://www.facebook.com/JoplinVolunteers?sk=wall

* Joplin's Found Photos
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplins-Found-Photos/200537796658232?sk=wall

* Just BEcause Sharing Is Beautiful (Joplin)
http://www.facebook.com/justBEcauseKC?sk=wall

* Kandi's Box Tops for Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Kandis-Box-Tops-for-Joplin/214827121884380

* Kathy's Cowboy Angels
https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=155944821148632#!/kathyscowboyangels

* Katrina's Angels Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071

* Katrina's Angels Volunteer Opportunities
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels-Inc-Volunteer-Opportunities/197733236936629

* Lost Photos of Joplin, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lost-Photos-of-Joplin-MO-Tornado/228439773836770

* Made With Love - Blankets for the Littlest Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Made-with-Love-Blankets-for-the-Littlest-Survivors/197509320292969

* Misti's Mission- Joplin Hwy 43 Overflow
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mistis-Mission-Joplin-Hwy-43-Overflow/198564790189545?sk=info
www.mistismission.org

* Missouri Mends
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Missouri-Mends/186716241381361?sk=wall

* My Joplin Tornado Story is...
https://www.facebook.com/pages/My-Joplin-Tornado-Story-is/229304113777848

* NW Arkansas Helping Joplin, MO
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nw-Arkansas-Helping-Joplin-Mo/224115180932710?ref=ts&sk=wall

* Operation Help Joplin (From KS)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Operation-Help-Joplin/212355078804082

* People Helping People of Joplin, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/People-Helping-People-of-Joplin-Missouri/218205981536957?sk=wall

* Plush Memories Lost Toy Search Service
http://plushmemories.com/18953/tornado-priority-tigger-orange-blankie.html

* Relief Spark - Joplin
http://www.reliefspark.org/joplinmo_volunteerform.html

* Relief Spark Volunteer Housing
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Relief-Spark-Volunteer-Housing/151952634887901

* Scrubs For Joplin (Replacing scrubs lost)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Scrubs-for-Joplin/195006483883048

* Smiles & Snuggles (Christmas for the children of Joplin affected by the May 22 tornado)
https://www.facebook.com/#!/SmilesAndSnuggles

* Support Joplin Seniors Tornado Relief Fund
https://www.facebook.com/supportjoplinseniors#!/supportjoplinseniors?sk=wall

* The Sacred, Lost in the Debris (Funeral Urns-Ashes)
https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/notes/lost-photos-of-joplin-mo-tornado/the-sacred-lost-in-the-debris/264446146902799

* The Twister Sisters (pamper kits and other items for the ladies and children who went thru the Joplin Twister) http://www.facebook.com/thetwistersisters

* Tornado Took My Dress (Donated wedding and bridesmaid dresses)
http://www.tornadotookmydress.com/

* Trees For Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Trees-For-Joplin-2011/231117273571194?sk=wall

* Wedding Dresses for Tornado Victims
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Wedding-Dresses-for-Tornado-Victims/199402436763698

* Words of Encouragement for Joplin, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071#!/pages/Words-of-Encouragement-for-Joplin-MO/205990969437314

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Car Replacement or Repair: Go to cars4christmas.org to get an application to apply to get a vehicle.
also--
The Economic Security Corporation of Southwest Missouri received a grant from the United Way of Southwest Missouri & Southeast Kansas to assist individuals who lost their private vehicles in the tornado. To find out more information about this program or to make an appointment, contact the Community Development department at Economic Security at 417-781-0352.

Counseling Services: Christian Counseling Services(Joplin) will be offering free counseling to those affected by the tornado. Call them at :417-206-2200. They are committed to doing this for several months.
also--
Ozark Center Crisis Intervention Services 800-247-0661 or 417-347-7720

Eyeglasses or contact lenses: Helping tornado survivors in need of eyeglasses or contact lenses, Sears Optical, Joplin, MO is offering a 15% discount on top of regular discounts for glasses, contacts and exams for tornado survivors. For more details of the discounts available, call the Northpark Mall location for details at 417-659-2000, ask for optical's.

Free photo restoration: Operation Photo Rescue is providing free photo restoration to storm victims. Visit http://www.operationphotorescue.org or email mhayes@operationphotorescue.org

House Demolition: If you are a homeowner or if you know of a homeowner who needs to have a house demolished, you can call AmeriCorps at 417-625-3558 to give permission to volunteers to take down your house. We are lining up skilled volunteers to assist you. You can also learn more by visiting their Facebook page, Joplin Tornado Relief Services.

Rides in Joplin, MO The Alliance of SWMO has transportation available in the immediate area for FEMA appointments, job interviews, pharmacy runs, etc.
Please call 417-540-6602 to schedule a ride. Rides are offered during the hours of 8 am - 7 pm.

Links from September 8th NE Floods from TS Lee

2011-09-15T19:47:00.001-04:00

September 8th NE Floods from Lee

* Holly Acres/Marumsco Flooding
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Holly-AcresMarumsco-flood-relief-clearinghouse/218940938160645?sk=wall

* Prince William County (PWC) Flood Information
http://www.pwcgov.org/default.aspx?topic=040086000300006610

* Woodbridge Flooding
http://www2.insidenova.com/woodbridge_flooding/

Texas Wildfires Assistance & Volunteer Links

2011-09-06T13:47:00.014-04:00

* Support the Communities affected by the Texas Wildfires 2011https://www.facebook.com/pages/Support-the-Communities-affected-by-the-Texas-Wildfires-2011/204954189539323?sk=wall

* Assistance Info for Animals Displaced by Wildfires
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Assistance-Information-for-Animal-Displaced-by-Wildfires/157094197709383

* Bastrop Co Fire Large Animal Info
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bastrop-Co-Fire-Large-Animal-Info/229040790477605?sk=wall
{If you need help to shelter/transport your animals or can offer that type assistance, this is the FB to post it on. Stay safe.}

* Bastrop Fire
https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/152131204873896/

* Bastrop Fire - Adopt A Family
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/groups/259827437382435/

* Bastrop Fire Find Your Pet
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Bastrop-Fire-Find-Your-Pet/271095376242030

* Bastrop Wildfire Information
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Bastrop-Wildfire-Information/161579783925314

* Bastrop Wildfire Volunteer Reception Center
http://www.facebook.com/BastropWildfireVolunteer

* Cedar Creek Wildfire Info
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cedar-Creek-Texas-Wildfire-Info/190407454362698

* Central Texas Widlfire Recovery
https://www.facebook.com/centexrecovery?ref=ts

* Central Texas Wildfire Relief
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Central-Texas-Wildfire-Relief/216093408444115

* Donations to help Central Texas
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1517719118630.46523.1704077166

* Goergetown Helps Bastrop Victims
https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/243793778997056/

* Houston County Wildfire Info
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Houston-County-Wildfire-Info/255327614500823

* Montgomery County Wildfire Info
https://www.facebook.com/#!/Montgomerycountyfireinfo

* Lost & Found Pets From the Texas Wildfires
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Lost-and-Found-Pets-From-Texas-Wildfires/110680239037485

* Red Rock Texas Wildfire Info
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Red-Rock-Texas-Wildfire-Info/256833484348314

* Round Rock, TX Volunteer Drive for Bastrop
There are some drives underway like this one in Round Rock, TX: https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=199160660150333

* Texas Wildfire Relief
http://txwildfirerelief.org/

Bastrop County Pregnancy Resource Center, 1109 Church Street, Suite 1, Open Wed 8-3 adn Thurs 9-12 629-8780. They have available diapers, wipes, shoes clothes to 5t, formula, baby food, womens clothes, pack n plays, car seats, strollers, child and baby blankets & more. They are also accepting donations. Thank you!

From With Love From Texas- Alabama Tornado Relief A man named Matt Daniel has enough pasture for about sixty horses. So if anyone knows someone with horses displaced by the fires give him a call 832-769-1879. He can move the horses, ten at a time. Also Ron Derrick from Lampassas has 2500 acres, 20 stall barn and several pastures. He said that if anyone needs a place to put animals, call him at 512-734-6080.

Hurricane Irene Aftermath Assistance & Volunteer Links Revised 9/12/11

2011-08-31T01:38:00.022-04:00

Hurricane Irene is impacting the United States. Groups are popping up. Don't forget Katrina's Angels is here to help. We were born after Hurricane Katrina hit this great nation.(www.katrinasangels.org)

Save our toll free number so we can direct you to the help you may need later. 1-877-ANGEL 13

* Brunswick County officials -damage assessment hotline
(910) 253-7472 and leave a message on the system.

Officials will then get back with residents to ensure they have a record of the damage for assessments that are submitted to the state, Garner said.

* Facebook temporary housing events by state
https://www.facebook.com/#!/notes/hurricane-irene-2011-animal-rescue-resource-page/facebook-temporary-housing-events-by-state/104214923017758

* Granville Flood Relief
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=253163438056826

* Help Vermont
https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/184210041652477/

* Horse Evacuations East
https://www.facebook.com/HorseEvacuationsEast?sk=wall

* Horse Owner Preparation for Hurricanes
http://cs.thehorse.com/blogs/horse-sense-and-sensibility/archive/2011/08/26/horse-owner-preparation-for-hurricanes-and-other-natural-disasters.aspx?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

* How You Can Help Vermont
http://7d.blogs.com/blurt/2011/08/after-irene-how-you-can-help-vermont.html

* Hurricane Irene
https://www.facebook.com/#!/IreneRelief
https://www.facebook.com/HurricaneUpdates?ref=ts&sk=wall
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-Irene/223311591050043?sk=info

* Hurricane Irene (NYC)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-Irene-2011/202752649789240?sk=wall

* Hurricane Irene (theweatherspace.com)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-Irene/265755173437570?sk=info

* Hurricane Irene 2011 Animal Rescue Page
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-Irene-2011-Animal-Rescue-Resource-Page/103720599733857?sk=wall

* Hurricane Irene -Tropical Storm Irene
https://www.facebook.com/HurricaneIrene2011?sk=wall

* Hurricane Irene Relief
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hurricane-Irene-Relief/263698046993740?sk=wall

* Irene Flood Drive
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Irene-Flood-Drive/187105451360178?sk=wall

* Irene Flood Drive Kids
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Irene-Flood-Drive-Kids/259593210737880?sk=wall

* Irene Flood Drive Pets Livestock
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Irene-Flood-Drive-Pets-Livestock/257239017631974?sk=wall

* Irene Relief for Waterbury, VT
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Irene-Relief-for-Waterbury-VT/225412074178060?sk=wall

* Jersey Shore Hurricane Donations
https://www.facebook.com/jerseyshorehurricanedonations?sk=info

* Jersey Shore Hurricane News
https://www.facebook.com/JerseyShoreHurricaneNews?sk=wall

* Jersey's Lost Critters Found
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jerseys-Lost-Critters-Found/254921604538876?sk=wall

* KA~Irene (Katrina's Angels Hurricane Irene Page)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/KAIrene/166102866801310

* Katrina's Angels Volunteer Opportunities
https://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels-Inc-Volunteer-Opportunities/197733236936629

* Mad-River-Valley-Hurricane-Irene
https://www.facebook.com/MRVpostIrene?sk=info
http://www.mrvhurricaneirene.com/

* NC Street Dance & Flood Relief
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=107420422691102

* New Bern, NC An emergency pet shelter has been set up at the Craven County Fair Grounds.

* NW Arkansas Helping Hurricane Irene Victims
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nw-Arkansas-Helping-Hurricane-Irene-Victims/185482191519934?sk=wall

* Outer Banks Disaster Relief
https://www.facebook.com/karen.iwicki#!/groups/227110934007878/

* Restoring Rutland
https://www.facebook.com/RestoringRutland?sk=wall

* Rutland Flood
https://www.facebook.com/pages/KAIrene/166102866801310#!/profile.php?id=100002816903263&sk=info

* The Haven in White River Junction has food, clothing, cleaning supplies http://uppervalleyhaven.org/

* Vermont 13- Keep Awareness Alive
https://www.facebook.com/pages/KAIrene/166102866801310#!/profile.php?id=100002816903263&sk=info

* Vermont Emergency Response Volunteers
http://healthvermont.gov/emerg/verv/what-is-verv.html

* Vermont Flood Relief & Recovery
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vermont-Flood-Relief-Recovery/144011372356763?sk=wall

* Vermont Flooding 2011
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vermont-Flooding-2011/212455332141871?ref=ts&sk=wall

* Vermont Hurricane Relief and Information
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vermont-Hurricane-Relief-and-Information/269948406367753?sk=wall

With regard to the pet-friendly lodging issue, this web site has a database of pet-friendly hotels throughout the country: http://www.petswelcome.com/

BringFido.com is extending our hours of operation to help evacuees find pet friendly hotels from the road. If you need help, please call 877-411-FIDO.

Vermont Emergency Management: The Agency of Commerce and Community Development has set up a referral number for businesses seeking assistance. 802 828-3211.

VIRGINIA: After Hurricane Irene struck Virginia Beach, VA, thousands of wildlife babies were orphaned or displaced. If you come across these helpless creatures in the aftermath, bring them into Evelyn's Wildlife Refuge, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, dedicated to rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife native to Virginia. http://www.evelynswildliferefuge.org/

India Tresselt: KNITTERS WANTED! Many folks in VT and NY have lost winter clothes in the floods, and though it's still warm now we know the cold weather is not far away. If you are interested in plying your needles for those in need, email me at warmhearts2@gmail.com for more information.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tornado-de-ayuda-en-espanol/212466325450946

Fundraiser nets $920.00 for Katrina's Angels!

2011-08-28T18:50:00.002-04:00

A joint fundraiser for Katrina's Angels and the Tonawanda Aquettes synchronized swimming team by Katrina's Angels board member and HR Director Gigi Grizanti and her team has resulted in a donation check of $920 for the Katrina's Angels! Thank you to Gigi and the girls who worked tirelessly during the recent Italian Festival there....

Tornado Assistance Links Throughout the U.S. Revised 9/4/11

2011-08-24T13:28:00.015-04:00

Hi, Everyone! Thought I'd take the time to put out a new, updated list this morning. Please look whether you need help or are looking for a way to help!

There are new links aimed at helping in various ways, including Christmas gifts, hairbows, kitchen items, etc. Some links have been deleted as they are no longer active. Survivors, please be sure to scroll all the way down the page for valuable information concerning cars, counseling services, even eyeglasses and contact lenses.

Email me at ProgramDirector@katrinasangels.org if there are more links that should be on this list, or if something no longer applies.

If you need help and can't find it locally, contact Katrina's Angels at info@katrinasangels.org or 1-877-ANGEL-13 and we will do what we can to get you the help you need.

If you can donate, please do: http://katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp
100% goes back to helping the survivors! Check us out on Facebook.

* Adopt A Joplin Classroom!
http://brightfuturesjoplin.org/adopt-an-eagle/
* A Hard Candy Christmas (AL tornado survivors)
https://www.facebook.com/hardcandychristmas?sk=info
* Alabama Hope No One Left Behind
http://www.facebook.com/AlabamaHope?sk=info
* Alabamas Lost Birthdays
http://www.facebook.com/AlabamasLostBirthdays?sk=wall
* Alabama's Lost Toys
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alabamas-lost-toys/124130814333896
* ALGASCOHELPS--when you're ready to build, we're ready to help
http://www.alagascohelps.com/
Also-rebuild rebates available on appliances
http://www.alagascohelps.com/rebuildTogether.php
* Anam Cara - Knitting with a Heart
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071#!/AnamCaraKnitting
* Angels in Bama
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Angels-In-Bama/167400153320602
* Baxter Springs Helps Crystal Whitely - Joplin Tornado
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Baxter-Springs-Helping-Crystal-Whitely-Joplin-Tornado/214904251880835?sk=info
* Blankets for Bama Babies (website blanketsforbamababies.weebly.com)
http://www.facebook.com/BlanketsForBamaBabies
* Bows for Joplin, MO
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bows-for-Joplin-MO/160261554049864
* Bows for Smithville, MS Tornado Victims
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bows-for-Smithville-MS-Tornado-victims/127170467365020?sk=wall
* Boxes For Kiddos
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Boxes-For-Kiddos/222331024445837
* Boxtops for Schools Damaged by the Tornadoes (Alabama)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Box-Tops-for-Schools-Damaged-by-Tornadoes/176414732416474
* Boxtops for Hackelburg
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Box-Tops-4-Hackleburg/222434324452874
* Boxtops for Joplin! Rebuild Our Schools (Mail them in) http://www.facebook.com/Box.Tops.For.Joplin?sk=wall
* Calhoun County Tornado - Needs and Haves
http://www.facebook.com/Calhouncountyemergencies?sk=wall
* Chests Of Hope
http://www.facebook.com/Chestsofhope?sk=info
* Christmas in Dixie for Tornado Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Christmas-in-Dixie-for-Tornado-Survivors/131828100226212?ref=ts&sk=wall
* City of Joplin Homes & Home Repair Assistance Matrix
http://www.joplinmo.org/pdf/rebuilding_tools_grid_table.pdf
* Communities United: Donation locations & News for Alabama Tornado Relief
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Communities-United-Donation-locations-News-for-Alabama-Tornado-Relief/212875528731926
* Community2Community
http://www.facebook.com/pages/People-Helping-People-of-Joplin-Missouri/218205981536957?sk=wall#!/pages/C2C-Community2Community/158617514200883?sk=info
* Counseling for those affected by the tornado (Tuscaloosa) http://www.givetuscaloosa.com/2011/06/02/counseling-tornado/
* CQ Relief
http://www.facebook.com/CQRelief?sk=wall#!/CQRelief?sk=wall
* CQRelief Shower for Oklahoma Tornado Victims
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071#!/event.php?eid=126035214145888
* DeKalb County Tornado Relief (Ft Payne, AL)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/DeKalb-County-Tornado-Relief/107293182693178?sk=wall#!/pages/DeKalb-County-Tornado-Relief/107293182693178?sk=info
* Denning Tornado Relief - Volunteers & Donations Info
http://www.facebook.com/DenningVolunteers?sk=wall
* Diapers for Devastation
http://www.facebook.com/DiapersforDevastation?sk=wall
417-622-1799
* Eclectic Tornado Info (Eclectic,AL)
www.facebook.com/eclectictornadoinfo
* Elephants Remember Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Elephants-Remember-Joplin/220561267973508?sk=wall
* 1st United Responders (Aiding Temporary Emergency Services) Tuscaloosa
http://www.facebook.com/1stUR?sk=wall
* Friends of Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/FriendsofJoplin?ref=ts&sk=wall
* Grace Baptist Joplin Relief
https://www.facebook.com/#!/gbcjoplinrelief
* Grace Disaster Relief (a place for volunteers to stay)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Grace-Disaster-Relief/112620405493389?sk=wall
* Hackelburg Hands On ~ Families
https://www.facebook.com/handsonfamilies
* Hackelburg Helping Hands
http://www.facebook.com/HackleburgHelpingHands
* Hairbows For Hackelburg
http://www.facebook.com/HairbowsForHackleburg?sk=info
* Heart 4 Children Ministries Disaster Relief
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Heart-4-Children-Ministries-Disaster-Relief/269167509762436
h4cmdr.org
* Help Cunningham Park Win $100,000
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Help-Cunningham-Park-Joplin-MO-win-100000/262804387069687?sk=wall
* Help Rebuild Cordova
https://www.facebook.com/helprebuildcordova?sk=wall
* Help Rebuild Pleasant Grove
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Help-Rebuild-Pleasant-Grove/120299041382141?ref=ts
* Help Us, Help Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/helpushelpjoplin?ref=ts&sk=wall
Annie Dee Dill Jones
Do you or anyone you know that was affected by the Joplin area tornado need assistance in getting basic items replaced? We can help!!!! Please email us at helpushelpjoplin@email.com or call our hotline at 417-825-6585! Someone will get back to you in 24-48 hours! Thank you! ♥
* Help Us, Help Joplin: Families helping Families
https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/helpushelpjoplin/
* High Socks for Hope http://www.highsocksforhope.com/ or
http://www.facebook.com/pages/High-Socks-For-Hope/118593268226299
** Home SchoolHelpers for Joplin
https://www.facebook.com/#!/search.php?q=Home%20School%20Helpers%20for%20Joplin&init=quick&tas=0.629810974932722&search_first_focus=1312865716529
* Hope For Tornado Victims
http://www.facebook.com/pages/HOPE-for-Tornado-Victims/168910969832805?sk=wall
* Housing and Relief for Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/JoplinHousingRelief?sk=wall
* How Can We Help Recent Tornado Victims?
http://www.facebook.com/pages/How-Can-We-Help-Recent-Tornado-Victims/220059254678206
* Huntsville Hugs
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Huntsville-HUGS/188282727886795
* Jackson County AL Volunteers & Assistance http://www.facebook.com/jacksoncountyal?sk=wall
* Joplin Children's Chsirtmas Wish List
https://www.facebook.com/JBBSXMAS?sk=wall
* Joplin Hope Wall
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplin-Hope-Wall/233528126666449?sk=wall
* Joplin Job Leads
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplin-Job-Leads/171794096221003?sk=wall
* Joplin, MO: The Man Cave - Support. Donate. Replace.
http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/253319581352809/
* Joplin Recovery Volunteer Lodging
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=206071269442625&set=a.182461321803620.42480.182171045165981&type=1#!/JoplinLodging
* Joplin MO Tornado Recovery
http://www.facebook.com/joplinmo
* Joplin Post & Share
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Joplins-Post-Share/238398822857497
* Joplin Smile
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/JoplinSmile?sk=wall
* Joplin Tornado Cold Drinks for Volunteers
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplin-Mo-Tornado-Cold-Drinks-for-volunteers/231731683507765?sk=wall
* Joplin Tornado Critical Information
http://www.facebook.com/#!/joplincritical
* Joplin Tornado Debris Lost & Found
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Joplin-Tornado-Debris-Lost-and-Found/223745274319125
* Joplin Tornado Free Services
http://www.facebook.com/joplinfree?sk=wall
* Joplin Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/joplintornadoinfo
* Joplin Tornado Relief: Volunteers & Donations Info
http://www.facebook.com/JoplinVolunteers?sk=wall
* Joplin's Found Photos
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplins-Found-Photos/200537796658232?sk=wall
* Just BEcause Sharing Is Beautiful (Joplin)
http://www.facebook.com/justBEcauseKC?sk=wall
* Kandi's Box Tops for Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Kandis-Box-Tops-for-Joplin/214827121884380
* Kathy's Cowboy Angels
https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=155944821148632#!/kathyscowboyangels
* Katrina's Angels Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071
* Katrina's Angels Volunteer Opportunities
https://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels-Inc-Volunteer-Opportunities/197733236936629
* Kentucky C.A.R.E.S (Contributing to AL Relief Efforts)
http://www.facebook.com/KentuckyCARES
* Kidz in Joplin MO
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Kidz-in-Joplin-MO/190699974311816
* Kitchen in a Box for Tornado Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/?sk=lf#!/pages/Kitchen-in-a-Box-for-Tornado-Survivors/132503146824763
* Little Hands Big Helpers - Empowering Kids To Make A Difference
http://www.facebook.com/LittleHandsBigHelpers?sk=wall
* Lost Photos of Joplin, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lost-Photos-of-Joplin-MO-Tornado/228439773836770
* Mackynzie's school supply drive for JoMo students
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mackynzies-school-supply-drive-for-JoMo-students/224377744272682?sk=wall
* MA Tornado Help & Support
http://www.facebook.com/pages/MA-Tornado-Help-Support/216980351657191
* Made With Love - Blankets for the Littlest Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Made-with-Love-Blankets-for-the-Littlest-Survivors/197509320292969
* Magnolia Disaster Relief
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Magnolia-Disaster-Relief/144667118939142?sk=wall
* Misti's Mission- Joplin Hwy 43 Overflow
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mistis-Mission-Joplin-Hwy-43-Overflow/198564790189545?sk=info
www.mistismission.org
* Missouri Mends
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Missouri-Mends/186716241381361?sk=wall
* Monson Homes Available for Tornado Victims
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Monson-Homes-available-for-Tornado-victims/232705120077321
* My Joplin Tornado Story is...
https://www.facebook.com/pages/My-Joplin-Tornado-Story-is/229304113777848
* Neighbors Helping Neighbors--Helena, AL
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Neighbors-Helping-Neighbors-Helena-AL/203204246385414
* Nettleton Donation Drive for Smithville
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nettleton-Donation-Drive-for-Smithville/189735824405638?sk=wall
* New Directions
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/New-Directions-Community-Development-Corporation-a-501-C-3-Non-Profit/228815217148675
* New Jersey Helps Joplin & Tuscaloosa
http://www.facebook.com/pages/New-jersey-helps-Joplin-and-Tuscaloosa/128430843903573?sk=wall
* North AL Disaster Relief of Ardmore
http://www.facebook.com/NorthAlabamaDisasterRelief?sk=info
* NW Arkansas Helping Joplin, MO
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nw-Arkansas-Helping-Joplin-Mo/224115180932710?ref=ts&sk=wall
* OK Tornado: Missing Items
http://www.facebook.com/pages/OK-Tornado-Missing-Items/132913793449715?sk=wall
* Operation Hands and Feet Hueytown, AL
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Operation-Hands-and-Feet/120688964679173?sk=wall
* Operation Help Joplin (From KS)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Operation-Help-Joplin/212355078804082
* People Connecting Joplin Tornado Survivors to Sell or Trade their Items
http://www.facebook.com/pages/People-Connecting-Joplin-Tornado-Survivors-to-Sell-or-Trade-their-Items/226252627400826?sk=info#!/pages/People-Connecting-Joplin-Tornado-Survivors-to-Sell-or-Trade-their-Items/226252627400826?sk=wall
* People Helping People of Joplin, MO http://www.facebook.com/pages/People-Helping-People-of-Joplin-Missouri/218205981536957?sk=wall
* Pictures & Documents Found After the April 27. 2011 Tornadoes http://www.facebook.com/PicturesandDocumentsfoundafterAprilTornadoes
* Piedmont Service Center
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Piedmont-Service-Center/165161016879837?sk=wall
* Piedmont Donation Page
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Piedmont-Donation-Page/176692625719041?sk=wall
* Piedmont Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/PiedmontTornadoinfo?sk=wall
* Pleasant Grove, AL Tornado Updates
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pleasant-Grove-Al-Tornado-Updates/186865031359026
* Plush Memories Lost Toy Search Service
http://plushmemories.com/18953/tornado-priority-tigger-orange-blankie.html
* Reagan's Tornado Relief Effort
https://www.facebook.com/raeganstornadoreliefeffort?sk=wall
* Rebuild The South
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rebuild-the-South/183634908353739
* Rebuild Tuscalossa
http://www.facebook.com/#!/rebuildtuscaloosa
* Red Caps for Holt (They are registered through Coke Rewards. You can donate your Coke caps to the school and help them earn much needed equipment.) http://www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Caps-for-Holt/161494937249472?sk=wall#!/pages/Red-Caps-for-Holt/161494937249472?sk=wall
* Reins Of Life (Marion County)
http://www.facebook.com/ReinsofLifeDisasterRelief?sk=wall&filter=2
* Relief Spark - Joplin
http://www.reliefspark.org/joplinmo_volunteerform.html
* Relief Spark Volunteer Housing
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Relief-Spark-Volunteer-Housing/151952634887901
* Restocking Children's Books for Bama Libararies (AL)
https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=201678476561084
* St Louis Supports Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/pages/St-Louis-Supports-Joplin/213058075382158?sk=wall
* Scrubs For Joplin
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Scrubs-for-Joplin/195006483883048
* Shelter for Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shelter-For-Survivors/160695050662334?sk=wall
* Shoeboxes for Kids
https://www.facebook.com/shoeboxesforkids?sk=wall
* Smithville, MS April 27, 2001 EF-5 Tornado Recovery Effort http://www.facebook.com/pages/Smithville-MS-April-27-2011-EF-5-Tornado-Recovery-Effort/105118166241490?sk=wall
* Shower Of Hope Oklahoma
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Shower-of-Hope-Oklahoma/175398172518550
* Smiles & Snuggles (Christmas for the children of Joplin affected by the May 22 tornado)
https://www.facebook.com/#!/SmilesAndSnuggles
* Southern Strong Tornado Relief Efforts
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Southern-Strong-Tornado-Relief-Efforts/200090886703423?sk=wall
* Spalding Tornado Relief (GA)
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002362939457&sk=info
* Springfield Tornado Recovery
http://www.springfieldcityhall.com/COS/tornado.0.html
* Springfield, MA Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Springfield-MA-Tornado-Info/216499621706755?ref=ts
* StormHope.org
http://www.facebook.com/stormHOPE.org?sk=wall
* Support Joplin Seniors Tornado Relief Fund
https://www.facebook.com/supportjoplinseniors#!/supportjoplinseniors?sk=wall
* The Haves Helping the Have-Nots
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Haves-Helping-the-Have-Nots/206001896106586?sk=info
* The Joplin Exchange
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplin-Distribution-Centers/100828456677369?sk=wall#!/home.php?sk=group_220531514636039
* The Sacred, Lost in the Debris (Funeral Urns-Ashes)
https://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/notes/lost-photos-of-joplin-mo-tornado/the-sacred-lost-in-the-debris/264446146902799
* Temporary Emergency Services (Tuscalossa, AL)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Temporary-Emergency-Services/158426164175182?sk=wall
* The Twister Sisters (pamper kits for the ladies who went thru the Joplin Twister) http://www.facebook.com/thetwistersisters
* Torn-Aid Spalding County: Tornado Victim Suppoert
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Torn-Aid-Spalding-County-Tornado-Victim-Support/197136436997219
* Tornado Edge (Connecting KC to Joplin)
http://www.facebook.com/TornadoEdge?ref=ts&sk=wall#!/TornadoEdge?sk=wall
* Tornado Relief for Tots
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tornado-Relief-for-Tots/207846562583599?sk=wall
* Tornado Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tornado-Survivors/123356901084478?sk=info
* Tornado Survivor Needs/Requests: Joplin, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tornado-Survivor-NeedsRequests-Joplin-MO/155908907813530?sk=wall
* Tornado Took My Dress (Wedding dresses)
http://www.tornadotookmydress.com/
* Tornado Victims Relief Effort
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tornado-Victims-Relief-Effort/150681894998460?sk=wal
* Toys For Alabama
http://www.facebook.com/pages/TFA-Toys-For-Alabama-/182921305090073?ref=ts&sk=wall
* Trees For Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Trees-For-Joplin-2011/231117273571194?sk=wall
* Tuscaloosa Tornado Donations http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tuscaloosa-Tornado-Donations/163861390342295
* Volunteer Network - Tornado Disaster Relief for Spalding County (MA)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Volunteer-Network-Tornado-Disaster-Relief-for-Spalding-County/201623573209883
* Volunteers & Donations for Jackson County, Alabama
http://www.facebook.com/#!/jacksoncountyal
* We Are T-Town (Tuscaloosa, AL)http://www.facebook.com/WeAreTtown?sk=wall or http://www.wearettown.org/home
* Wedding Dresses for Tornado Vistims
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Wedding-Dresses-for-Tornado-Victims/199402436763698
* Wildwood Baptist Disaster Relief
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wildwood-Baptist-Disaster-Relief/230625520296319?sk=info
* Words of Encouragement for Joplin, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071#!/pages/Words-of-Encouragement-for-Joplin-MO/205990969437314

** Christian Counseling Services (Joplin) will be offering free counseling to those affected by the tornado. Call them at :417-206-2200. They are committed to doing this for several months.

** Ozark Center Crisis Intervention Services 800-247-0661 or 417-347-7720

Go to cars4christmas.org to get an application to apply to get a vehicle.
also--
The Economic Security Corporation of Southwest Missouri received a grant from the United Way of Southwest Missouri & Southeast Kansas to assist individuals who lost their private vehicles in the tornado.

To find out more information about this program or to make an appointment, contact the Community Development department at Economic Security at 417-781-0352

Operation Photo Rescue is providing free photo restoration to storm victims. Visit operationphotorescue.org or email mhayes@operationphotorescue.org

Helping tornado survivors in need of eyeglasses or contact lenses,
Sears Optical, Joplin, MO is offering a 15% discount on top of regular discounts for glasses, contacts and exams for tornado survivors. For more details of the discounts available, call the Northpark Mall location for details at 417-659-2000, ask for optical's.

Resource List of Churches Still Helping Joplin Tornado Survivors as of August 24, 2011: https://www.facebook.com/#!/notes/the-twister-sisters/resource-list-of-churches-helping-tornado-survivors/238297919547865

Rides in Joplin, MO The Alliance of SWMO has transportation available in the immediate area for FEMA appointments, job interviews, pharmacy runs, etc.
Please call 417-540-6602 to schedule a ride. Rides are offered during the hours of 8 am - 7 pm.

If you are a homeowner or if you know of a homeowner who needs to have a house demolished, you can call AmeriCorps at 417-625-3558 to give permission to volunteers to take down your house. We are lining up skilled volunteers to assist you. You can also learn more by visiting their Facebook page, Joplin Tornado Relief Services.

Also check here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/People-Helping-People-of-Joplin-Missouri/218205981536957?sk=wall#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels-Inc-Volunteer-Opportunities/197733236936629

The Newest Flood Information for Minot, ND and surrounding areas...

2011-08-10T19:52:00.000-04:00

Here are the latest links for the Minot, ND flood assistance. Let us know if there are more.

KX News Minot
Flood Financial Awareness Resource Fair at the N.D. State Fair All-Seasons Arena in the FFA Hall on Thursday, August 11 at 12:00pm to 10:00 pm. No registration is required and there is no charge to attend. Organizations and Agencies will have booths set up, some in attendance are: the SBA, FEMA, IRS, NDSU Extension Center, Veterans Affairs, Minot AFB, and many more.

* Acts of Kindness and Hope http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749#!/notes/family-voices-north-dakota/acts-of-kindness-and-hope/184279538297141
* Box Top Drive to Rebuild (Minot) Schools
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749#!/event.php?eid=125822084170186
* Cleaning Up and Drying Out Your Home After a Flood
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=233125456717651&id=228815217148675#!/notes/2011-fremont-county-ia-flood-support/advice-for-cleaning-up-and-drying-out-your-home-emergency-management-division/256826000999797
**City of Minot Minot ND Flood Clean-Up Help! Get help! Be the helper!http://www.minotnd.org/
* Community- Minot, ND Flood Help
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=668489096#!/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749
* Crafting For Minot
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Crafting-for-Minot/249721125042415?sk=wall
* I Helped Rebuild Minot
http://ihelpedrebuildminot.com/minotflood/
---**Need Sheetrock? http://ihelpedrebuildminot.com/minotflood/sheetrock/
* KX News Minot
http://www.facebook.com/kxnewsminot?closeTheater=1&sk=wall
* Minot AFB Airman and Family Readiness Center
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-AFB-Airman-and-Family-Readiness-Center/243310259792
* Minot Animal Flood Victims
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-Animal-Flood-Victims/138644119547231?sk=wall
* Minot Community Flood Help
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749?sk=wall
* Minot, ND Flood Information
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-ND-Flood-Information/154718371268042?ref=ts
* Minot Mousers (Support for Minot's smallest flood victims)
http://www.facebook.com/minotmousers
* Mouse River Flood 2011
http://mouseriverflood2011.net/index.php
* Pumping Out Water From A Flooded Basement? Use Caution! http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=233125456717651&id=228815217148675#!/notes/2011-fremont-county-ia-flood-support/caution-regarding-pumping-out-water-from-flooded-basement-emergency-management-d/256824164333314
* The Fox Flood Info 2011 Minot
http://www.1053thefox.com/pages/flood2011.html?feed=418764&article=8637636
* Ward County Flood Hotline: (701) 858-9366

You may keep track of more information on the flooding in ND here: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071

*Lutheran Social Services - Flood Assistance Hotline: 1-800-950-2901

"Limited financial assistance is and will be available for qualifying households displaced by the flood. For assistance call 701-838-8925."

FREE MUD OUT CREWS North Hill Baptist Church, 678-982-4670 This is the number for the command center. Call and preferably stop by at North Hill Baptist Church 524 21st Ave. NW. and talk with folks to get your home cleaned up for FREE!! Again that number is 678-982-4670.

Disaster Recovery Centers
Disaster Recovery Centers in Minot and Bismarck from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, July 21-23, to help taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. The centers are located at the Minot City Auditorium, 420 Third Ave. SW; and the Bank of North Dakota, 1200 Memorial Highway, Bismarck.

Animals/Pets Lost & Found Tornado Recovery Links

2011-08-08T13:45:00.000-04:00

Worth Repeating...Please check these pages as they are still trying to recover lost pets and find the homes for those found.

Pets/Animals

*Animals Lost and Found from TN & GA Tornadoes
http://www.facebook.com/Animalslosttnga?sk=wall

*Animals Lost & Found From The Joplin Area Tornado http://www.facebook.com/pages/Animals-Lost-Found-from-the-Joplin-Mo-tornado/185768248141000?sk=info

*Animals Lost & Found From the Tornadoes in AL on 4/27/11 http://www.facebook.com/ALTornadoAnimals

*Displaced Animals Eastern TN from 4/27 Storms
http://www.facebook.com/pages
/Displaced-Animals-Eastern-Tn-from-427-storms/206936232662532

*Info regarding missing pets in Joplin MO http://www.helpjoplin.com/information-regarding-missing-or-lost-pets/

*Joplin Tornado Lost & Found Pets Photostream
http://www.flickr.com/photos/63350979@N08/sets/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplin-Tornado-LostFound-Pets/100264776733481

*Lost & Found Pets From the Tornadoes in Mississippi 2011 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lost-Found-Pets-from-the-Tornadoes-in-Mississippi-2011/128581653884918

*Louisiana Flood Animals In Need http://www.facebook.com/pages/Louisiana-Flood-Animals-in-Need/172658632789832

*Missing Cats Alabama Tornado
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.730837563929.2214888.42811321

OK: Reuniting Lost Pets
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_214447501911225

*The Homeless Pets Foundation http://www.facebook.com/pages/Homeless-Pets-Foundation/178580835517452

MO River Flood Assistance Links Revised 8/4

2011-08-04T13:47:00.002-04:00

Here is a revised list of Missouri River Flood Assistance Links. Let us know if there are more groups helping in this area.

*Flood Recovery in Southeast MO
http://www.mo.gov/living-in-missouri/personal-public-safety/disaster-resources/flood-preparedness/

* 2011 Missouri River Flood
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071#!/MissouriRiverFlood2011

* 2011 Missouri River Floods
http://www.facebook.com/pages/2011-Missouri-River-Floods/222332717798628?ref=ts&sk=info

* 2011 Missouri River Flood: Elwood and Wathena, Kansas
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/2011-Missouri-River-Flood-Elwood-and-Wathena-Kansas/171600759567309

* Cleaning Up and Drying Out Your Home After a Flood
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=233125456717651&id=228815217148675#!/notes/2011-fremont-county-ia-flood-support/advice-for-cleaning-up-and-drying-out-your-home-emergency-management-division/256826000999797

* Missouri River Flood 2011
https://www.facebook.com/MoRiver?sk=wall

* MO River Flood Resources
http://www.mo.gov/2011mofloods/

The national mental health crisis hotline is 1-800-273-8255.
The suicide prevention lifeline is 347-7720.
The toll-free number is 800-247-0661.

Katrina's Angels Receives $1,159 Donation From Gevo

2011-07-29T14:05:00.002-04:00

Katrina's Angels (KA) would like to thank our Resource Consultant Robin Peak who apparently hasn't forgotten KA during her leave of absence. Her employer, Gevo (http://www.gevo.com/) recently auctioned off some laptop computers and raised $1,159 for Katrina's Angels! Thank you, Gevo and Robin!

Although we are a 501(c) 3, we receive no funding. We rely on private and corporate donations. We have spread ourselves pretty thin, first due to the recession where donations became almost non-existent, and then, the extent of the needs following the disasters this year across this great country. However, we at Katrina’s Angels will continue to help those in need. We are able to do this in part thanks to Gevo and others like them. 100% of the monies raised goes back disaster survivors.

Please “Like” our page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071 and see how you can help.

How to Help Tornado & Flood Victims With Little Effort

2011-07-28T18:18:00.000-04:00

For those of you willing to try to help U.S. tornado and flood survivors from home, tape a large envelope or zipper bag inside a cabinet or on the fridge, and start collecting those Box Tops for Education. Find them at: http://www.boxtops4education.com/

There are also opportunities to win bonus coupons on the site. I suggest collecting for four weeks and see what happens. Tip: Put a date to mail them on your calendar. Then, come back and tell us how many you sent.

Take your pick of groups to send them to:

* Box Top Drive to Rebuild (Minot, ND) Schools
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749#!/event.php?eid=125822084170186

* Boxtops for Schools Damaged by the Tornadoes (Alabama)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Box-Tops-for-Schools-Damaged-by-Tornadoes/176414732416474

* Boxtops for Hackelburg (Hackeleburg, AL)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Box-Tops-4-Hackleburg/222434324452874

* Boxtops for Joplin! Rebuild Our Schools (Joplin, MO) http://www.facebook.com/Box.Tops.For.Joplin?sk=wall

* Kandi's Box Tops for Joplin
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Kandis-Box-Tops-for-Joplin/214827121884380

Or collect those red Coke Rewards caps and send them here:

* Red Caps for Holt (They are registered through Coke Rewards. You can donate your Coke caps to the school and help them earn much needed equipment.)
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Caps-for-Holt/161494937249472?sk=wall#!/pages/Red-Caps-for-Holt/161494937249472?sk=wall

The Latest Minot, ND Flood Assistance Links & Information

2011-07-27T16:31:00.002-04:00

Here are the latest links for the Minot, ND flood assistance. Let us know if there are more.:

* Acts of Kindness and Hope http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749#!/notes/family-voices-north-dakota/acts-of-kindness-and-hope/184279538297141
* Box Top Drive to Rebuild (Minot) Schools
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749#!/event.php?eid=125822084170186
* Cleaning Up and Drying Out Your Home After a Flood
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=233125456717651&id=228815217148675#!/notes/2011-fremont-county-ia-flood-support/advice-for-cleaning-up-and-drying-out-your-home-emergency-management-division/256826000999797
**City of Minot Minot ND Flood Clean-Up Help! Get help! Be the helper!http://www.minotnd.org/
* Community- Minot, ND Flood Help
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=668489096#!/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749
* Crafting For Minot
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Crafting-for-Minot/249721125042415?sk=wall
* I Helped Rebuild Minot
http://ihelpedrebuildminot.com/minotflood/
---**Need Sheetrock? http://ihelpedrebuildminot.com/minotflood/sheetrock/
* KX News Minot
http://www.facebook.com/kxnewsminot?closeTheater=1&sk=wall
* Minot AFB Airman and Family Readiness Center
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-AFB-Airman-and-Family-Readiness-Center/243310259792
* Minot Animal Flood Victims
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-Animal-Flood-Victims/138644119547231?sk=wall
* Minot Community Flood Help
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749?sk=wall
* Minot, ND Flood Information
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-ND-Flood-Information/154718371268042?ref=ts
* Minot Mousers (Support for Minot's smallest flood victims)
http://www.facebook.com/minotmousers
* Mouse River Flood 2011
http://mouseriverflood2011.net/index.php
* Pumping Out Water From A Flooded Basement? Use Caution! http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=233125456717651&id=228815217148675#!/notes/2011-fremont-county-ia-flood-support/caution-regarding-pumping-out-water-from-flooded-basement-emergency-management-d/256824164333314
* The Fox Flood Info 2011 Minot
http://www.1053thefox.com/pages/flood2011.html?feed=418764&article=8637636
* Ward County Flood Hotline: (701) 858-9366

You may keep track of more information on the flooding in ND here: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071

*Lutheran Social Services - Flood Assistance Hotline: 1-800-950-2901

"Limited financial assistance is and will be available for qualifying households displaced by the flood. For assistance call 701-838-8925."

FREE MUD OUT CREWS North Hill Baptist Church, 678-982-4670 This is the number for the command center. Call and preferably stop by at North Hill Baptist Church 524 21st Ave. NW. and talk with folks to get your home cleaned up for FREE!! Again that number is 678-982-4670.

Disaster Recovery Centers
Disaster Recovery Centers in Minot and Bismarck from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, July 21-23, to help taxpayers with disaster-related tax questions. The centers are located at the Minot City Auditorium, 420 Third Ave. SW; and the Bank of North Dakota, 1200 Memorial Highway, Bismarck.

Katrina's Angels Has a Hands-On Volunteer Opportunities Page

2011-07-22T20:26:00.000-04:00

Please like our volunteer opportunities page on Facebook. Hands-On Opportunities are posted there from groups all over the country

http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels-Inc-Volunteer-Opportunities/197733236936629

Mental Health & Counseling Services in Joplin MO

2011-07-19T01:16:00.001-04:00

Here are some numbers to call if you need help:

Christian Counseling Services will be offering free counseling to those affected by the tornado. Call them at:417-206-2200.

Ozark Center Crisis Intervention Services 800-247-0661 or 417-347-7720

Dr. Graves MD***Angela Herndon APMHNP****Dr Ahmed MD***Nancy Price APMHNP all at 417-347-7550

The national mental health crisis hotline is 1-800-273-8255.
The suicide prevention lifeline is 347-7720.
The toll-free number is 800-247-0661.

The Beary Godmothers of Genoa City and their "Listening Bears"

2011-07-19T01:09:00.001-04:00

If any of you know me, you know that I have always found one way or another to help people in need. It's my mission in life, I do beleive.

I live in Genoa City, WI. Following 9-11, a group of us in town called The Beary Godmothers created special "Listening Bears" for the children who lost loved ones in the World Trade Center. I, myself, participated by cutting out the shapes of hundreds of bears to be sewn together by the the next group. Hundreds were distributed in New York and Pennsylvania.

Well, just recently, a member of The Beary Godmothers came across a few of these bears and donated them to Katrina's Angels for the tornado victims who have lost siblings. We are grateful. We just sent one to the Hamil child in Oklahoma who lost two siblings.

These handmade bears were lovingly sewn together by The Beary Godmothers. Each bear has been given a name. Here is the message on one of the bears:

Sometimes you need someone
To tell your troubles to...
A friend to hold and hug you
If you're feeling scared and blue.
I'll listen to your worries
and wipe your tears away...
You'll never be alone now,
Because I'm your friend to stay!
MY NAME IS

Chris

Your "Listening Bear"

We are actively working to obtain the addresses of other little ones who may need a "Listening Bear" to tell their troubles to. If you know of a child that lost a sibling in the tornadoes this year, please email me at ProgramDirector@katrinasangels.org.

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

Missouri River Flood Assistance Links

2011-07-15T18:25:00.003-04:00

I am beginning a list of Missouri River Flood Assistance Links

* 2011 Missouri River Flood
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071#!/MissouriRiverFlood2011

* 2011 Missouri River Floods
http://www.facebook.com/pages/2011-Missouri-River-Floods/222332717798628?ref=ts&sk=info

* 2011 Missouri River Flood: Elwood and Wathena, Kansas
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/2011-Missouri-River-Flood-Elwood-and-Wathena-Kansas/171600759567309

* Cleaning Up and Drying Out Your Home After a Flood
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=233125456717651&id=228815217148675#!/notes/2011-fremont-county-ia-flood-support/advice-for-cleaning-up-and-drying-out-your-home-emergency-management-division/256826000999797

The national mental health crisis hotline is 1-800-273-8255.
The suicide prevention lifeline is 347-7720.
The toll-free number is 800-247-0661.

Newest Links for Minot ND Flood Assistance Revised July 13

2011-07-10T14:48:00.007-04:00

Here are the latest links for the Minot, ND flood assistance. Let us know if there are more.:

* Acts of Kindness and Hope http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749#!/notes/family-voices-north-dakota/acts-of-kindness-and-hope/184279538297141
* Box Top Drive to Rebuild (Minot) Schools
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749#!/event.php?eid=125822084170186
* Cleaning Up and Drying Out Your Home After a Flood
http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=233125456717651&id=228815217148675#!/notes/2011-fremont-county-ia-flood-support/advice-for-cleaning-up-and-drying-out-your-home-emergency-management-division/256826000999797
**City of Minot Minot ND Flood Clean-Up Help! Get help! Be the helper!http://www.minotnd.org/
* Community- Minot, ND Flood Help
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=668489096#!/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749
* Crafting For Minot
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Crafting-for-Minot/249721125042415?sk=wall
* I Helped Rebuild Minot
http://ihelpedrebuildminot.com/minotflood/
---**Need Sheetrock? http://ihelpedrebuildminot.com/minotflood/sheetrock/
* KX News Minot
http://www.facebook.com/kxnewsminot?closeTheater=1&sk=wall
* Minot AFB Airman and Family Readiness Center
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-AFB-Airman-and-Family-Readiness-Center/243310259792
* Minot Animal Flood Victims
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-Animal-Flood-Victims/138644119547231?sk=wall
* Minot Community Flood Help
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749?sk=wall
* Minot, ND Flood Information
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-ND-Flood-Information/154718371268042?ref=ts
* Minot Mousers (Support for Minot's smallest flood victims)
http://www.facebook.com/minotmousers
* Mouse River Flood 2011
http://mouseriverflood2011.net/index.php
* Pumping Out Water From A Flooded Basement? Use Caution! http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=233125456717651&id=228815217148675#!/notes/2011-fremont-county-ia-flood-support/caution-regarding-pumping-out-water-from-flooded-basement-emergency-management-d/256824164333314
* The Fox Flood Info 2011 Minot
http://www.1053thefox.com/pages/flood2011.html?feed=418764&article=8637636
* Ward County Flood Hotline: (701) 858-9366

You may keep track of more information on the flooding in ND here: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071

*Lutheran Social Services - Flood Assistance Hotline: 1-800-950-2901

"Limited financial assistance is and will be available for qualifying households displaced by the flood. For assistance call 701-838-8925".

Mental Health Assistance in Joplin, MO Revised 7/19

2011-07-10T14:05:00.002-04:00

Animals Lost and Found after Tornado Sites

2011-07-07T20:56:00.000-04:00

Worth Repeating

Pets/Animals

*Animals Lost and Found from TN & GA Tornadoes
http://www.facebook.com/Animalslosttnga?sk=wall

*Animals Lost & Found From The Joplin Area Tornado http://www.facebook.com/pages/Animals-Lost-Found-from-the-Joplin-Mo-tornado/185768248141000?sk=info

*Animals Lost & Found From the Tornadoes in AL on 4/27/11 http://www.facebook.com/ALTornadoAnimals

*Displaced Animals Eastern TN from 4/27 Storms http://www.facebook.com/pages
/Displaced-Animals-Eastern-Tn-from-427-storms/206936232662532

*Info regarding missing pets in Joplin MO http://www.helpjoplin.com/information-regarding-missing-or-lost-pets/

*Joplin Tornado Lost & Found Pets Photostream
http://www.flickr.com/photos/63350979@N08/sets/

*Lost & Found Pets From the Tornadoes in Mississippi 2011 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lost-Found-Pets-from-the-Tornadoes-in-Mississippi-2011/128581653884918

*Louisiana Flood Animals In Need http://www.facebook.com/pages/Louisiana-Flood-Animals-in-Need/172658632789832

*Missing Cats Alabama Tornado
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.730837563929.2214888.42811321

OK: Reuniting Lost Pets
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_214447501911225

*The Homeless Pets Foundation http://www.facebook.com/pages/Homeless-Pets-Foundation/178580835517452

2011 Iowa & Missouri River Flood Relief Links

2011-07-06T14:14:00.001-04:00

* 2011 Fremont County Flood
http://www.facebook.com/pages/2011-Fremont-County-Flood/147429241995439?sk=wall
* 2011 Fremont County, Iowa Flood Support
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/2011-Fremont-County-IA-Flood-Support/232438310105233
* 2011 Missouri River Flood
http://www.facebook.com/MissouriRiverFlood2011?sk=info#!/MissouriRiverFlood2011?sk=wall
* 2011 Missouri River Flood Elwood and Wathena, Kansas
http://www.facebook.com/pages/2011-Missouri-River-Flood-Elwood-and-Wathena-Kansas/171600759567309?ref=ts&sk=wall
* Hamburg, Iowa Flood Information
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Hamburg-Iowa-Flood-Information/225829124111475
* Western Iowa Flood Recovery
http://www.foxnews.mobi/quickPage.html?page=22995&external=995904.proteus.fma

A LOT of disastrous things are happening out there!

2011-06-24T20:58:00.001-04:00

There are severe record floods in ND and damaging tornadoes have hit several states. There are wild fires eating homes. As soon as another disaster happens, the media and first responders move on. Katrina's Angels is a second responder, finding those pockets forgotten, of the under-served, sometimes in outlying rural areas, where people are still in shock and are uninsured simply because they couldn't afford it in this terrible recession.F amilies, the elderly, even children need our help!

If you are on Facebook, PLEASE also "like" and consult these pages for ways you can help:

Katrina's Angels
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071

Katrinas Angels Volunteer Opportunities
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels-Inc-Volunteer-Opportunities/197733236936629

If you are on Twitter, follow us here:
http://twitter.com/#!/search/katrinasangels

Or just go to http;//www.katrinasangels.org and offer your donations or services. We take donations of surplus overstock and other items as well. 100% goes back to the people. It is all tax-deductible.

If you live near Genoa City, WI (by Lake Geneva, Wi just N of Richmond at the IL/WI border) and want to donate items or gift cards or even cash, contact ProgramDirector@katrinasangels.org and I will get back to you ASAP.

Karen Iwicki

Minot, ND Flood Assistance Links

2011-06-24T14:57:00.004-04:00

*Community- Minot, ND Flood Help
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=668489096#!/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749
*KX News Minot
http://www.facebook.com/kxnewsminot?closeTheater=1&sk=wall
*Minot AFB Airman and Family Readiness Center
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-AFB-Airman-and-Family-Readiness-Center/243310259792
*Minot Animal Flood Victims
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-Animal-Flood-Victims/138644119547231?sk=wall
*Minot Community Flood Help
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Community-Minot-ND-Flood-Help/192913784093749?sk=wall
*Minot, ND Flood Information
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Minot-ND-Flood-Information/154718371268042?ref=ts
*Minot Mouseketeers (Support for Minot's smallest flood victims)
https://www.facebook.com/minotmouseketeers?sk=wall

You may keep track of more information on the flooding in ND here: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Katrinas-Angels/18397199071

In An Emergency: Pet Evacuation Checklist

2011-06-20T18:38:00.001-04:00

* Make plans in advance and choose a place to evacuate to.

* Prepare a pet evacuation kit.

* Attach a collar tag or microchip contact information, including a contact outside the evacuation zone (make sure any microchips are registered).

* Bring a kennel, travel carrier or cage.

* Bring food, water and medicine.

* Bring the pet's vaccination and medical records.

* Bring favorite toys, treats and blankets.

* Bring bedding or litter and paper towels.

SOURCE: American Veterinarian Association

I also think it is a good idea to bring along a good picture of your pet (better if it is one of you and your pet together) just in case the pet is lost or picked up by animal rescue and must be claimed later.

Posted to our forum by Ellyn...Thanks, Ellyn!

Expanded and Revised Tornado Assistance Links

2011-06-10T13:58:00.007-04:00

Here is an updated page since I keep finding more groups! Katrina's Angels does what it can to support disaster victims. If you need help and can't find it locally, contact Katrina's Angels at info@katrinasangels.org or 1-877-ANGEL-13 and we will do what we can to get you the help you need. If you can donate, please do: http://katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp

* Alabama's Lost Toys
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alabamas-lost-toys/124130814333896
* Alabama Relief Groups
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alabama-Relief-Groups/209753729061750
* Angels in Bama
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Angels-In-Bama/167400153320602
* Blankets for Bama Babies
http://www.facebook.com/BlanketsForBamaBabies
* Boxes For Kiddos
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Boxes-For-Kiddos/222331024445837
* Christmas in Dixie for Tornado Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Christmas-in-Dixie-for-Tornado-Survivors/131828100226212?ref=ts&sk=wall
* Cordova, AL Rebuilding Our Community
http://www.facebook.com/?sk=lf#!/pages/Cordova-Al-Rebuilding-our-Community/161149697281139
* Hackelburg Helping Hands
http://www.facebook.com/HackleburgHelpingHands
* Hope For Tornado Victims
http://www.facebook.com/pages/HOPE-for-Tornado-Victims/168910969832805?sk=wall
* How Can We Help Recent Tornado Victims?
http://www.facebook.com/pages/How-Can-We-Help-Recent-Tornado-Victims/220059254678206
* Joplin Tornado Critical Information
http://www.facebook.com/#!/joplincritical
* Joplin Tornado Debris Lost & Found
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Joplin-Tornado-Debris-Lost-and-Found/223745274319125
* Joplin Tornado Free Services
http://www.facebook.com/joplinfree?sk=wall
* Joplin, MO Tornado Recovery
http://www.facebook.com/joplinmo?sk=wall
* Joplin Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/joplintornadoinfo
* Joplin Tornado Recovery
http://www.joplinmarket.com/sections/tornado.html
* Jopin's Found Photos
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplins-Found-Photos/200537796658232?sk=wall
* Kentucky C.A.R.E.S (Contributing to AL Relief Efforts)
http://www.facebook.com/KentuckyCARES
* Kitchen in a Box for Tornado Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/?sk=lf#!/pages/Kitchen-in-a-Box-for-Tornado-Survivors/132503146824763
* Lost Photos of Joplin, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lost-Photos-of-Joplin-MO-Tornado/228439773836770
* MA Tornado Help & Support
http://www.facebook.com/pages/MA-Tornado-Help-Support/216980351657191
* Made With Love - Blankets for the Littlest Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Made-with-Love-Blankets-for-the-Littlest-Survivors/197509320292969
* Misti's Mission- Joplin Hwy 43 Overflow
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mistis-Mission-Joplin-Hwy-43-Overflow/198564790189545?sk=info
* Missouri Mends
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Missouri-Mends/186716241381361?sk=wall
* Neighbors Helping Neighbors--Helena, AL
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Neighbors-Helping-Neighbors-Helena-AL/203204246385414
* New Jersey Helps Joplin & Tuscaloosa
http://www.facebook.com/pages/New-jersey-helps-Joplin-and-Tuscaloosa/128430843903573?sk=wall
* North AL Disaster Relief of Ardmore
http://www.facebook.com/NorthAlabamaDisasterRelief?sk=info
* OK Tornado: Missing Items
http://www.facebook.com/pages/OK-Tornado-Missing-Items/132913793449715?sk=wall
* People Helping People of Joplin, MO http://www.facebook.com/pages/People-Helping-People-of-Joplin-Missouri/218205981536957?sk=wall
* Pictures & Documents Found After the April 27. 2011 Tornadoes http://www.facebook.com/PicturesandDocumentsfoundafterAprilTornadoes
* Piedmont Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/PiedmontTornadoinfo?sk=wall
* Pleasant Grove, AL Tornado Updates
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pleasant-Grove-Al-Tornado-Updates/186865031359026
* Rebuild The South
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rebuild-the-South/183634908353739
* Rebuild Tuscalossa
http://www.facebook.com/#!/rebuildtuscaloosa
* Shelter for Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shelter-For-Survivors/160695050662334?sk=wall
* Smithville, MS April 27, 2001 EF-5 Tornado Recovery Effort http://www.facebook.com/pages/Smithville-MS-April-27-2011-EF-5-Tornado-Recovery-Effort/105118166241490?sk=wall
* Spalding Tornado Relief (GA)
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002362939457&sk=info
* The Haves Helping the Have-Nots
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Haves-Helping-the-Have-Nots/206001896106586?sk=info
* Springfield, MA Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Springfield-MA-Tornado-Info/216499621706755?ref=ts
* Tornado Support for Oklahoma
http://www.facebook.com/TornadoSupport4Oklahoma
* Torn-Aid Spalding County: Tornado Victim Support
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Torn-Aid-Spalding-County-Tornado-Victim-Support/197136436997219?sk=wall
* Toys For Alabama
http://www.facebook.com/pages/TFA-Toys-For-Alabama-/182921305090073?ref=ts&sk=wall
* Tuscaloosa Tornado Donations http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tuscaloosa-Tornado-Donations/163861390342295
* Tornado Victims Relief Effort
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tornado-Victims-Relief-Effort/150681894998460?sk=wal
* Underwear, Socks & Bras Oh, My!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Underwear-Socks-and-Bras-Oh-my/216639688364804
* Wedding Dresses for Tornado Vistims
http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Wedding-Dresses-for-Tornado-Victims/199402436763698

Joplin Photo Repair

2011-06-09T16:10:00.002-04:00

Operation Photo Rescue: now accepting digital formats for repair! If you have photographs to get repaired find out what you need to know. http://joplinrescuedphotos.org/operation-photo-rescue/repairing-photos/

Tornado Pet Sites--Lost and Found

2011-06-09T16:04:00.003-04:00

Pets/Animals

*Animals Lost and Found from TN & GA Tornadoes
http://www.facebook.com/Animalslosttnga?sk=wall

*Animals Lost & Found From The Joplin Area Tornado http://www.facebook.com/pages/Animals-Lost-Found-from-the-Joplin-Mo-tornado/185768248141000?sk=info

*Animals Lost & Found From the Tornadoes in AL on 4/27/11 http://www.facebook.com/ALTornadoAnimals

*Displaced Animals Eastern TN from 4/27 Storms http://www.facebook.com/pages
/Displaced-Animals-Eastern-Tn-from-427-storms/206936232662532

*Info regarding missing pets in Joplin MO http://www.helpjoplin.com/information-regarding-missing-or-lost-pets/

*Joplin Tornado Lost & Found Pets Photostream
http://www.flickr.com/photos/63350979@N08/sets/

*Lost & Found Pets From the Tornadoes in Mississippi 2011 http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lost-Found-Pets-from-the-Tornadoes-in-Mississippi-2011/128581653884918

*Louisiana Flood Animals In Need http://www.facebook.com/pages/Louisiana-Flood-Animals-in-Need/172658632789832

*Missing Cats Alabama Tornado
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.730837563929.2214888.42811321

OK: Reuniting Lost Pets
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?sk=group_214447501911225

*The Homeless Pets Foundation http://www.facebook.com/pages/Homeless-Pets-Foundation/178580835517452

Katrina's Angels Steps Up For Disaster Survivors!

2011-06-02T23:52:00.000-04:00

The past several weeks, states throughout the US were hit with a series of massively-destructive tornadoes. Flooding continues along the Mississippi River. While we have been assisting Neighbors Across the Land Disaster Relief & Recovery (NATLDRR) in those areas, Katrina's Angels realizes we can't do it all.

The tornado-stricken areas are becoming those of greatest concern. In addition to Joplin, where all eyes seem to be at the moment, there have been deadly tornadoes in Alabama, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Missouri, and even Massachusetts! Over 500 people have died from the tornadoes in recent weeks. Hundreds more have been injured. We would like to continue to be second responders, fulfilling needs not covered by other, larger groups that often leave after the first few weeks, but we need your help!

We all know that after the first responders leave, there is always still a great need, especially by the uninsured and under-insured, and Katrina's Angels wants to step up after the first responders leave and help to rebuild these communities. We will need more Katrina's Angels volunteers, especially those willing to collect and get items to tornado areas nearby.
To be a volunteer, go here: www.katrinasangels.org/Volunteers.asp

We are hoping some of you will open your hearts and pocketbooks to the great needs of those suffering following this massive destruction. If you can donate even $1, you may do so here: http://katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp

Gift cards may be sent to:
Katrina's Angels Financial Director Cheryl Bystrak
10535 Bergtold Road
Clarence, NY 14031

You will be sent a tax-deductible receipt from Katrina's Angels if you request it.

If you have any questions, or if you know of an isolated community that needs assistance following a tornado or flood, contact Katrina's Angels at info@katrinasangels.org or call our Toll Free number at 1-877-264-3513. That's 1-877-ANGEL13. We thank you so much for anything you can do to help.

Karen Iwicki, Program Director

Tornado Assistance: Information is there if you know where to look...

2011-05-31T14:42:00.003-04:00

Tornado Assistance: There are a lot of grassroots groups and information sites that have sprung up in light of all of the tornadoes across this nation. The following is a list I have compiled. Let me know if you know of more. Contact info@katrinasangels.org

* Alabama's Lost Toys
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Alabamas-lost-toys/124130814333896
* Blankets for Bama Babies
http://www.facebook.com/BlanketsForBamaBabies
* Boxes For Kiddos
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Boxes-For-Kiddos/222331024445837
* Hackelburg Helping Hands
http://www.facebook.com/HackleburgHelpingHands
* Hope For Tornado Victims
http://www.facebook.com/pages/HOPE-for-Tornado-Victims/168910969832805?sk=wall
* How Can We Help Recent Tornado Victims?
http://www.facebook.com/pages/How-Can-We-Help-Recent-Tornado-Victims/220059254678206
* Joplin, MO Tornado Recovery
http://www.facebook.com/joplinmo?sk=wall
* Joplin Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/joplintornadoinfo
* Joplin Tornado Recovery
http://www.joplinmarket.com/sections/tornado.html
* Jopin's Found Photos
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Joplins-Found-Photos/200537796658232?sk=wall
* Kentucky C.A.R.E.S (Contributing to AL Relief Efforts)
http://www.facebook.com/KentuckyCARES
* Lost Photos of Joplin, MO
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Lost-Photos-of-Joplin-MO-Tornado/228439773836770
* MA Tornado Help & Support
http://www.facebook.com/pages/MA-Tornado-Help-Support/216980351657191
* Made With Love - Blankets for the Littlest Survivors
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Made-with-Love-Blankets-for-the-Littlest-Survivors/197509320292969
* Missouri Mends
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Missouri-Mends/186716241381361?sk=wall
* Neighbors Helping Neighbors--Helena, AL
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Neighbors-Helping-Neighbors-Helena-AL/203204246385414
* New Jersey Helps Joplin & Tuscaloosa
http://www.facebook.com/pages/New-jersey-helps-Joplin-and-Tuscaloosa/128430843903573?sk=wall
* OK Tornado: Missing Items
http://www.facebook.com/pages/OK-Tornado-Missing-Items/132913793449715?sk=wall
* People Helping People of Joplin, MO http://www.facebook.com/pages/People-Helping-People-of-Joplin-Missouri/218205981536957?sk=wall
* Pictures & Documents Found After the April 27. 2011 Tornadoes http://www.facebook.com/PicturesandDocumentsfoundafterAprilTornadoes
* Pleasant Grove, AL Tornado Updates
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pleasant-Grove-Al-Tornado-Updates/186865031359026
* Smithville, MS April 27, 2001 EF-5 Tornado Recovery Effort http://www.facebook.com/pages/Smithville-MS-April-27-2011-EF-5-Tornado-Recovery-Effort/105118166241490?sk=wall
* Spalding Tornado Relief (GA)
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002362939457&sk=info
* The Haves Helping the Have-Nots
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Haves-Helping-the-Have-Nots/206001896106586?sk=info
* Springfield, MA Tornado Info
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Springfield-MA-Tornado-Info/216499621706755?ref=ts
* Toomer's For Tuscaloosa
http://www.facebook.com/toomersfortuscaloosa
* Tornado Support for Oklahoma
http://www.facebook.com/TornadoSupport4Oklahoma
* Torn-Aid Spalding County: Tornado Victim Support
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Torn-Aid-Spalding-County-Tornado-Victim-Support/197136436997219?sk=wall
* Toys For Alabama
http://www.facebook.com/pages/TFA-Toys-For-Alabama-/182921305090073?ref=ts&sk=wall
* Tuscaloosa Tornado Donations http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tuscaloosa-Tornado-Donations/163861390342295
* Tornado Victims Relief Effort
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tornado-Victims-Relief-Effort/150681894998460?sk=wal
* Underwear, Socks & Bras Oh, My!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Underwear-Socks-and-Bras-Oh-my/216639688364804

Katrina's Angels Needs Everyone's Help!

2011-05-16T11:31:00.000-04:00

Katrina's Angels (KA) sent kids toys and other items, and kids lifejackets to ND flood areas, then KA sent 50 ready-to-use grills to AL last week.

MS now needs us, as Leslie from Citizen Action Team contacted us and said she spoke on the phone to someone at Northern MS Disaster Relief. There are many outlying areas under-served or not being served at all, but we only have a $400 dollars in the bank...We need donations. Every dollar goes directly back to help!

Here's one post to FB: From North Mississippi Disaster Relief The items listed are very urgent. There are people living in cars and tents in some of the smaller towns in MS because they have not been able to receive help. They need anything and everything. Items that are being asked for in particular include food, togo containers, water, toiletries, and so on. Any and all items will be accepted.

Here is a list of needed items:

Baby, Baby Bottles
Baby, Baby Wipes
Batteries, Household * (ANY/ALL Types/Sizes)
Clothing, All Sizes, New or Gently Used * (ANY/ALL Types)
Diapers * (ANY/ALL Types/Sizes)
Flashlights
Food, Baby Food * (ANY/ALL Types)
Food, Canned ** (ANY/ALL Types)
Food, Drinks, Soft Drinks * (ANY/ALL Types)
Food, Non-Perishable Food * (ANY/ALL Types of Canned, Dry, Drinks, Snacks)
Gift Cards - Gas Cards (ie. Mobil, Texaco, Union 76, etc.)
Kitchen, Cooking, Can Openers
Linens, Bedding, Blankets * (ANY/ALL Types)
Medical, Supplies * (ANY/ALL Types)
Medical, Supplies, Hand Sanitizer
Paper, Paper Goods * (ANY/ALL Types) (paper towels, plates, napkins, etc)
Paper, Toilet Paper
Plastic Forks/Spoons/Knives
Shoes, * New or Gently Used/CLEAN * (ANY/ALL Types)
Storage Containers, Household Size * (ANY/ALL Types) (baskets, bins, etc)
Tarps
Toiletries * (ANY/ALL Types)
Tools * (ANY/ALL Types)
Water, * Bottles (ANY/ALL Types of Bottled Water)

If you can help in any way, or need an address to ship items to, contact 1-877-ANGEL13 toll free, or email info@katrinasangels.org.

We need donations, gift cards, volunteers....

2011-05-06T12:17:00.000-04:00

The past several weeks, states throughout the US were hit with a series of destructive tornadoes. Flooding continues along the Mississippi River. While we have been assisting Neighbors Across the Land Disaster Relief & Recovery (NATLDRR) in those areas, Katrina's Angels realizes we can’t do it all. We would like to continue to be second responders, fulfilling needs not covered by other, larger groups, but we need your donations and your help! We do not get government funding. Neighbors Across the Land Disaster Relief & Recovery (NATLDRR)will be going to the tornado-ravaged areas of the south soon. They need our assistance!

The economy is already strained, and many are without flood insurance because they simply couldn't afford it. Many children are without everyday necessities like underwear, sox, pacifiers, diapers, toys and books. We need donations so that we may purchase items for those children as well as for the adults who care for them. If you can donate, you may do so here: http://katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp Every dollar will help and will go immediately to provide relief. All donations are tax-deductible.

We currently need more of Katrina's Angels volunteers; especially Community Coordinators or Hands-On Volunteers on the ground in any hard-hit area. To volunteer, go here: http://katrinasangels.org/Volunteers.asp

We are hoping some of you will open your hearts to their needs. Our supplies and monies are running low. If you can't help with a monetary donation, perhaps you can do a fundraiser locally like a drive for new sox and new underwear in kids sizes, especially. Or gift cards so that they may purchase blankets, diapers and other much-needed items.

Gift cards may be sent to
Katrina's Angels Financial Director Cheryl Bystrak
10535 Bergtold Road
Clarence, NY 14031

You will be sent a tax-deductible receipt from Katrina's Angels if requested.

Contact us at info@katrinasangels.org if you want to ship items to those in need. If you have any surplus items, that would be great! If you have any questions, or if you know of an isolated community that needs assistance, contact Katrina's Angels at info@katrinasangels.org or call our Toll Free number at 1-877-264-3513. That's 1-877-ANGEL13. Thank you so much for anything you can do.

Karen Iwicki, Program Director

Quick Help Sent to ND!

2011-04-21T15:34:00.000-04:00

I wanted to update everyone on what was sent to Community Coordinator Maarja Krump in West Fargo, ND following area flooding. Knowing they truly need help in the area, Katrina's Angels sent two large priority USPS boxes containing the following items they said they needed most:

Lots of "stuff" for the kids to play with... (Thank you, Consultant Janet Arp!!)
Lots of individual hand sanitizers
Toothbrushes & toothpastes for kids and a few dental kits for adults
Face masks for when they start working with the mold

Katrina's Angels also sent 6 life vests--3 for baby to 50 lbs, and 3 for children 50 lbs.to 90 lbs.-- which Maarja requested because too many small children were being taken through floodwaters by boat without proper kid-sized life vests.

Katrina's Angels would like to continue to help in ND and other areas but we currently have only a few hundred dollars left. We need more funds or more people willing to help us with needed items! All of our funds go directly toward disaster relief. I, myself, donated $100 this morning to help with our efforts.

To donate, please go to http://katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp or, if you have items on hand you would prefer shipping where they need to go, contact info@katrinasangels.org.

Thank You So Much! We Can't Help Without You!

Karen Iwicki
ProgramDirector

The People of ND, IA and WI need you!

2011-04-14T21:54:00.000-04:00

This past week, Iowa and Wisconsin were hit with a series of destructive tornadoes. While we have been assisting Neighbors Across the Land Disaster Relief & Recovery (NATLDRR) in those areas, Katrina's Angels has been contacted by a group of people in West Fargo, North Dakota in need due to the constant flooding in their area. They are once again sand-bagging and pumping to keep the waters at bay. Katrina's Angels has stepped in to help.

The people of this area of North Dakota are devastated. The economy is already strained, and many are without flood insurance because they simply couldn't afford it. Many children are without everyday necessities like underwear, sox, pacifiers, diapers, toys and books. We need donations so that we may purchase items for those children as well as for the adults who care for them. We currently have a team led by a Katrina's Angels Community Coordinator who lives in the area. She is being joined by several volunteers on the ground. To volunteer, go here: If you can donate, you may do so here: We are hoping some of you will open your hearts to their needs.

Our supplies and monies are running low. If you can't help with a monetary donation, perhaps you can do a fundraiser locally like a drive for new sox and new underwear in kids sizes, especially. Or gift cards so that they may purchase diapers and other much-needed items. Gift cards may be sent to Community Coordinator Maarja Krump, PO BOX 202, West Fargo, ND 58078. You will be sent a tax-deductible receipt from Katrina's Angels if requested. If you have any questions contact Katrina's Angels at info@katrinasangels.org or call our Toll Free number at 1-877-264-3513. That's 1-877-ANGEL13. Thank you so much for anything you can do. Karen Iwicki Program Director

Earthquake Preparation

2011-02-18T12:20:00.011-05:00

by Jessica Kemper

Prepare for an Upset

Earthquakes don't have a season. You never know when the unexpected will happen. And you don’t want to underestimate the danger of an earthquake. The 1994 Northridge, California earthquake killed 60 people, injured over 7,000 citizens and left 20,000 people homeless. A 1999 earthquake in Gölcük,Turkey killed over 17,000 people and left even more homeless. These are rare cases, but it doesn’t hurt to prepare for the worst. Here are a few tips to aid in your quest to be earthquake aware and prepared.

Create a Plan of Action

There are few simple actions to practice in case of an earthquake. You probably learned a couple of them in elementary school.

The Disaster Center recommends practicing the drop, cover and hold-on method, which you will drop under a table, desk or other sturdy surface, grab the edge of the surface and tuck your face into your arm to shield your eyes.

Of course, in order to do this, The Disaster Center reminds you that you have to find a proper safe place to do the drop, cover and hold-on. Chosen tables and desks should be in a place away from things that can fall, such as pictures, books, lamps, etc.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends mapping out an evacuation plan, to be discussed with other members of the household. This includes sketching a floor plan of the house, and evaluating safety aspects in each room; finding second exits; keeping emergency materials clearly marked and deciding on a place to meet outdoors during an emergency.

Prepare Your Home

Sometimes, your living space needs to be tweaked for the safety of your family. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention encourages homeowners to inspect their homes for potential safety hazards. This includes being mindful of windows that might shatter during an earthquake, or loose appliances that could fall.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, safety fixes for your home can be as simple as replacing glass bottles with non-breakable plastic bottles, or bigger tasks, such as securing appliances and furniture with wire, bolts or velcro. For a more detailed list of instructions on how to secure household items in case of an earthquake, visit Dare To Prepare at:
http://www.daretoprepare.org/secure_your_stuff.html

Learning how to shut off gas, electricity and water during earthquakes and other natural disasters is also recommended by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Know what to do anywhere

Earthquakes don't just happen in the safety of your home. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) offers advice on what to do during a hurricane in a variety of locations.

According to the LAFD, if you are outdoors, move to an area that is free from trees, signs, or other objects that can fall. If driving, pull over your vehicle and stay inside until conditions are stable. If you are in a stadium or theatre, stay in your chair, cover your head and don't run to the exits.

Build a Safety Kit

Just as you stock up for other natural disasters, you'll want to keep a few special supplies on hand in case of an earthquake. SFGate offers an extensive list of things to stock in an emergency kit.

The obvious is water and non-perishable food. SF Gate recommends saving three days worth of water for all members of the household. This is estimated at one gallon per day. Save up canned food, energy-enhancing foods and food for your pets.

SFGate also recommends building up a first-aid kit that includes band-aids, gauze, tweezers and antiseptic. Keep supplies on hand, such as flashlights, tape, batteries and flares.

Resources

This article is just a summary of the safety precautions you can take against earthquakes. Below are the links to resources used here. Good luck!

1) The Disaster Center, Why Talk about Earthquakes: http://www.disastercenter.com/guide/earth.html

2) Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Being Prepared for an Earthquake:
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/prepared.asp

3) Dare to Prepare, Secure Your Stuff:
http://www.daretoprepare.org/secure_your_stuff.html

4) Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Inspecting for Home Hazards:
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/earthquakes/inspecting.asp

5) Los Angeles Fire Department, Emergency Preparedness:
http://lafd.org/eqbook.pdf

Cold Weather Preparation

2011-01-11T12:29:00.003-05:00

by Jessica Kemper

With Accuweather.com estimating January to be the coldest winter since 1985, perhaps it's time to have a discussion about cold weather protection. As a Floridian, I'm not the best person to give this advice. So, I'll direct you to the experts:

1) Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Winter Weather: Take Steps (http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/takesteps/)

This site offer great advice on how to prepare your home and your car for extreme cold weather.

Among the CDC's advice for home preparation: Insulate your walls; Insulate any water lines that run along outer walls; Add caulking and weather strips to doors and windows; and install an outdoor thermometer.

For car safety, CDC recommends that you check and maintain anti-freeze levels. Use a winter mixture to replace standard windshield-wiper fluid, replace any worn tires and keep an eye on tire pressure.

The site also offers a checklist of items to keep on hand in case of extreme cold weather conditions or blizzards. This includes: a battery-powered radio for weather updates; non-perishable food items and bottled water; rock salt; and a space heater.
You can also visit the Web site for advice on what to do during and after a winter storm.

2) American Red Cross Blog, Preparedness Fast Facts: Winter Weather (http://redcrosschat.org/2011/01/07/safety-tips-for-icy-weather/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+RedCrossChat+%28Red+Cross+Chat%29)

Tips for what to do before, during and after a winter storm can be found on the American Red Cross Blog.

The American Red Cross' tips for pre-storm preparation include: Keep your gas tank full, which keeps the fuel line from freezing; keep water running or dripping, to prevent pipes from freezing; and maintain heating equipment and chimneys.

3)United States Search and Rescue Task Force, Blizzards (http://www.ussartf.org/blizzards.htm)

In addition to offering basic facts about blizzards and related cold weather conditions, the United States Search and Rescue Task Force offers a list of tips to prepare for winter storms.

Most notable on the site is the extended list of items to keep in your car or truck. These include: sleeping bags; a flashlight; non-perishable food; first-aid kit; dry clothing; a shovel; windshield scraper; and booster cables.

4) FEMA, Are You Ready? Winter Storms and Extreme Cold (http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/winter.shtm)

The Web site for the Federal Emergency Management Agency asks the question Are You Ready? FEMA notably gives readers advice on how to dress for cold weather and how to winterize your car.

To dress for cold weather: wear several layers of clothing rather than one heavy layer of clothing; make sure outer garments are water-repellant; wear mittens, because they are warmer than gloves; and protect your lungs by covering your mouth with your scarf.

To winterize your car: keep battery terminals clean; check hazard lights; use lighter oil for your car, as heavier oils solidify easier in cold weather; and consider installing snow tires on your car.

I have only scraped the surface here, so please visit these sites for more information on how to stay warm. Have a safe and healthy winter season!

Holiday Campaign 2010

2010-11-06T11:22:00.004-04:00

Katrina’s Angels would like to thank all of our donors and volunteers for supporting our cause. We truly appreciate your help because it would not be possible to reach our goals without you. We are continuing the holiday tradition of gifting families and children who have been affected by natural disasters with items they have lost. This year we are focusing on helping flood victims purchase food for their holiday celebration.

In addition, we would like as many as possible to consider purchasing toys, socks, underwear, and slippers for the children of disaster. These extra items go a long way to bring comfort after the upheaval they have experienced. Many of their parents are struggling to make ends meet.

Go to http://www.katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp to make a donation of $10, $25, $50, $100 or more. Every dollar counts! All donations are tax-deductible.

You can also donate gift cards by mailing them to:

Katrina's Angels Financial Director Cheryl Bystrak
10535 Bergtold Road
Clarence, NY 14031

If you know of a community or even just a family that has suffered a natural disaster this year and needs our help, please contact info@katrinasangels.org or call us Toll Free at 1-877-ANGEL13. We will see what we can do to help.

Thank you for your generosity and concern.

Karen Iwicki
Program Director
Katrina's Angels, Inc.

Goodsearch.com Contest: Help Katrina's Angels win $1,000!

2010-09-29T10:02:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone!

GoodSearch.com is sponsoring a contest that will give an extra $1,000 to each of the five organizations that have the most toolbar downloads (and $100 to each of the first 100 charities to reach 100 downloads!) With the GoodSearch toolbar, every time you search online or shop at more than 1,500 stores (from Amazon to Zazzle!), a donation will be made to Katrina's Angels — all you have to do is add our toolbar to your computer.
Please help us be one of the lucky charities that will receive these much needed funds!
Here's how:
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1. Click http://www.goodsearch.com/toolbar/katrinas-angels
2. Download the Katrina's Angels toolbar
3. "Share With Friends" on our toolbar download page so that others can get involved!
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The contest ends on Oct. 31 so please add the toolbar NOW and spread the word to as many people as you can! For more information, click http://www.goodsearch.com/goodsearchgiveaway/.

Note: If you already had the old Goodsearch toolbar, you can disable it and upload this one without any problem.

Thank you for your support!

Angel Daughter Wins Synchronized Swimming Gold

2010-09-10T13:52:00.007-04:00

By Tom Maniscalco, Media Director, Katrina’s Angels

Gigi Grizanti takes pride in her role as Katrina’s Angels human resource director. One of her proudest moments, however, came when she found out that her daughter Julia won synchronized swimming gold as part of the Team USA 13-15 Age Group National Team. Julia Grizanti and her teammates competed in the UANA Pan American games that wrapped up last weekend in Lima, Peru. The games featured competition in the solo, duet, team and combination events.
Gigi was part of the 1980 synchronized swimming national team and also serves as National Team Coordinator at United States Synchronized Swimming, Inc. Gigi’s youngest daughter Sondra also competes in synchronized swimming.
The entire Katrina’s Angels family sends our sincere congratulations to Julia and the rest of the national team for this impressive achievement.
2010 USA Synchro 13-15 National Team:
Emma Baranski (Hamden, Conn.), Emily Drew (Bothell, Wash.), Julia Grizanti (Tonawanda, N.Y.), Lorraine Hack (Olympia, Wash.), Alyssa Hoying (Indianapolis, Ind.), Rachel Hyon (Cypress, Calif), Jamie Kuchan (Mesa, Ariz.), Shiree Lee (Cerritos, Calif.), Isabella Park (Rolling Hills Estates, Calif.), Sarah Rodriguez (San Antonio, Texas.), Suying Rothrock (Walnut Creek, Calif.), and Marisa Tashima (Lafayette, Calif.).
Each Team was named in Indianapolis in May and has been training together since June. Results can be accessed from www.usasynchro.org.

About Katrina’s Angels
Katrina's Angels is a national volunteer effort that is driven by the generosity of people wanting to make a difference for those communities affected by federally and state-declared disasters. The foundation provides partner organizations access to resources, volunteers, and support to help coordinate relief efforts of affected areas. For more information on becoming a sponsor or volunteer, please visit www.Katrinasangels.org

Katrina's Angels Raises Over $4,200 for Arkansas Flood Victims

2010-09-09T16:36:00.006-04:00

Homer, LA Resident Takes Home New Orleans Getaway Grand Prize

Bossier City, LA – September 5, 2010
Supporters attended a charity raffle hosted by Katrina’s Angels to benefit the Smith and Basinger families who lost loved ones during the June floods at Alberts Pike Campgrounds. The successful event, held at Reeves Marine, raised over $4,200 for the families.

“We want to thank all of the supporters who purchased tickets for this worthy cause,”
said Lisa Lobrano, event coordinator. “This would not have been possible without the
wonderful people and businesses who donated these great prizes and the incredible
support of Katrina’s Angels.”

Rickey Holley of Homer, LA took home the grand prize of a New Orleans Saints/New Years Weekend Getaway in New Orleans!

Other winners of the Charity Raffle are as follows:
2) Aperio Salon spa package - Nikki Hollingsworth
3) Eastridge round of golf - Susan Migues
4) Stonebridge round of golf - William Edmonson
5) Cavender's boots - Konni Falting
6) Reeve's Marine ski tube - Dr. Gallman
7) Clarke's Jewelers gift card - Jessica Harmon

Katrina's Angels wishes to congratulate all the winners.

About Katrina’s Angels
Katrina's Angels is a national volunteer effort that is driven by the generosity of people wanting to make a difference for those communities affected by federally and state-declared disasters. The foundation provides partner organizations access to resources,volunteers, and support to help coordinate relief efforts of affected areas. For more information on becoming a sponsor or volunteer, please visit www.katrinasangels.org.

Resources and Info in Light of Hurricane Earl

2010-09-02T12:41:00.007-04:00

Hurricane Earl is already stirring up things along the East Coast. For that reason, Katrina's Angels would like to get as much information out to people as possible.

For the latest in resources, please subscribe to our Angels In Action Forum on Yahoo Groups here: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/KatrinasAngelsinActionForum/
You can post conditions and needs there. You can request help, or let people know where some needed items are like tarps and sandbags.

You can check out A Nationwide Recovery Resource Library compiled by us since Hurricane Katrina and available in the links section of our Angels in Action forum at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/KatrinasAngelsinActionForum/links/Community_Resources_001141704518/
Let us know if you know where to find specific reources that are not yet listed.

You can even volunteer your services if needed and we can link you to a group on the ground in your area. Volunteer here: http://www.katrinasangels.org/Volunteers.asp

Headlining MSN is this article about MA being warned of the impending threat.
More at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38877306/ns/weather/?GT1=43001
Here are some helpful Weather.com links:

Hurricane Central http://preview.weather.com/newscenter/hurricanecentral/?par=msnbc&site=msnbcPFP&\

Severe alerts: http://preview.weather.com/newscenter/alerts/national/severeWxAlertsNational.htm

Airport delays:
http://www.weather.com/activities/travel/businesstraveler/?par=msnbc&site=msnbcP\

Reminder: Raffle Tickets Still Available

2010-08-31T20:06:00.004-04:00

Katrina’s Angels is hosting the Basinger-Smith Charity Raffle on September 4th. Only 5000 tickets are available at a donation of $10 each. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit the Smith and Basinger families. Tickets are still available!

These two women and their surviving children could use a little help. Katrina's Angels Charity Raffle for flood victims from the AR campgrounds: http://katrinasangelsblog.blogspot.com/2010/08/charity-raffle-for-arkansas-flood.html

Raffle tickets $10. Good cause. Great Prizes!

For tickets, contact Katrina’s Angels Regional Director for NWLA, Lisa Lobrano, lisa.lobrano@gmail.com
Or Katrina’s Angels Asst Regional Director for NWLA, Holly Boyer, hol'y426@bellsouth.net

Tickets will also be on sale from 10am to 2pm on September 4, 2010 at Reeves Marine, 2000 Reeves Marine Dr., Bossier City, Louisiana 71112 with the drawing immediately following at 2 pm.

Prizes include:
1st prize: New Year’s Weekend Getaway for 2 in New Orleans, LA (Value $1,050.)
Includes Hotel stay for 2 at Prytania Park Hotel in the Garden District from
December 31, 2010 until January 2, 2011 (free parking)
2 tickets to the Saints v. Buccaneers game on January 2, 2011 at 12:00p.m.
(See 144, Row 25, Seats 3-4)
$50 Shell station gas card
$100 gift card to Emeril's (choose from his 3 New Orleans eateries)
$150 gift card to Commanders Palace with reservations for 2 at New
Year’s Day Jazz Brunch
Spa Concepts gift card for a shampoo and style for one

2nd Prize: Aperio Salon gift card ($220)
3rd Prize: Eastridge Country Club weekday round of golf for 4 with cart ($220)
4th Prize: Stonebridge Country Club round of goif for 4 ($180)
5th Prize: Cavender's cowboy boots ($125)
6th Prize: Reeve's Marine ski tube ($100)
7th Prize: Clarke's Jewelers gift card ($100)

There is no cost to attend the drawing. The $10 is purely the cost of the raffle ticket, with no limit on how many tickets an individual can purchase. We will draw for the grand prize last, with everyone having a chance to win the grand prize even if they win one of the other prizes. You must be 18 to win. You need not be present to win.

--Karen Iwicki, Program Director

Katrina's Angels Has a New Toll Free Phone Number

2010-08-26T13:03:00.001-04:00

Katrina's Angels has a new toll free number! It is
1 877 264 3513 or 1 877 Angel 13

For those who do not know, you can always email your suggestions, comments,
needs or questions to Katrina's Angels, Inc at info@katrinasangels.org

Getting to Know…Tom Maniscalco

2010-08-26T12:46:00.005-04:00

Let’s give a warm Katrina’s Angels’ welcome to our new Media Director, Tom Maniscalco. He is bringing several years of experience to assisting us in sharing our cause.

Maniscalco joined Katrina’s Angels around three weeks ago, after discovering us in an online search. He spoke to Program Director Karen Iwicki and HR Director Gigi Grizanti, and was won over by their passion for our cause. He is most excited about helping Katrina’s Angels become a stronger organization through improved awareness.

Having earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism in 1998 and a Master’s Degree in Public Relations in 2006, Maniscalco is bringing substantial media knowledge to the table. He also has several years of professional experience in marketing for a variety of companies. He currently works at Applied Sciences Group in New York.

Already, Maniscalco’s media connections have assisted in expanding awareness of Katrina’s Angels. Our Basinger-Smith Family Raffle in Louisiana has received wide news coverage in the state, including ten radio announcements shared across Louisiana airwaves, and a piece on the local news.

Maniscalco is also a veteran of volunteer work. He is currently a Public Relations and Marketing Director for The Morlock Foundation, a non-profit organization that assists families of disabled children. For more information about The Morlock Foundation, visit http://www.themorlockfoundation.org.

Now, a few fun facts about Tom Maniscalco…

1)Hobbies: Maniscalco plays basketball and softball, and is an all-around sports fanatic. He likes to travel. He loves music.
2)Pets: a cat named Moby
3)Favorite TV show: Family Guy
4)Favorite type of music: all kinds. Everything from house to rock to hip hop.
5)Favorite book: The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
6)Favorite food: his mother’s lasagna

--By Jessica Kemper, Media Angel

Charity Raffle for Arkansas Flood Victims

2010-08-18T11:16:00.010-04:00

Katrina’s Angels will be hosting the Basinger-Smith Charity Raffle on September 4th. Only 5000 tickets are available at a donation of $10 each. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit the Smith and Basinger families.

Both Kerri Basinger and Candace Smith lost their husbands and two young children in the Albert’s Pike Floods in Arkansas on June 11, 2010, as follows: Shane Basinger (34), Jadyn Basinger (8), Kinsley Basinger (6), Anthony Smith (30), Joey Smith (5), and Katelynn Smith (2). The Campgrounds are 6 miles north of Langley, Arkansas.

The drawing will be On September 4 at 2pm at Reeves Marine Inc, 2000 Reeves Marine Drive, Bossier City, LA.

Prizes include:
1st prize: New Year’s Weekend Getaway for 2 in New Orleans, LA (Value $1,050.)
Includes Hotel stay for 2 at Prytania Park Hotel in the Garden District from
December 31, 2010 until January 2, 2011 (free parking)
2 tickets to the Saints v. Buccaneers game on January 2, 2011 at 12:00p.m.
(See 144, Row 25, Seats 3-4)
$50 Shell station gas card
$100 gift card to Emeril's (choose from his 3 New Orleans eateries)
$150 gift card to Commanders Palace with reservations for 2 at New
Year’s Day Jazz Brunch
Spa Concepts gift card for a shampoo and style for one

2nd Prize: Aperio Salon gift card ($220)
3rd Prize: Eastridge Country Club weekday round of golf for 4 with cart ($220)
4th Prize: Stonebridge Country Club round of goif for 4 ($180)
5th Prize: Cavender's cowboy boots ($125)
6th Prize: Reeve's Marine ski tube ($100)
7th Prize: Clarke's Jewelers gift card ($100)

Tickets will be on sale from 10am to 2pm on September 4, 2010 at Reeves Marine, 2000 Reeves Marine Dr., Bossier City, Louisiana 71112 with the drawing immediately following at 2 pm. Tickets will also be sold from 11am to 3pm on August 28, 2010 at Cavender’s Western Outfitter, 2340 Airline Drive, Bossier City, Louisiana 71111. We are securing other locations for ticket sales on August 28 and 29, and those will be announced.

There is no cost to attend the drawing. The $10 is purely the cost of the raffle ticket, with no limit on how many tickets an individual can purchase. We will draw for the grand prize last, with everyone having a chance to win the grand prize even if they win one of the other prizes. You must be 18 to win. You need not be present to win.

For tickets, contact Katrina’s Angels Regional Director for NWLA, Lisa Lobrano, lisa.lobrano@gmail.com
Or Katrina’s Angels Asst Regional Director for NWLA, Holly Boyer, hol'y426@bellsouth.net
More details will follow as they become available. Contact Katrina's Angels Media Director Tom Maniscalco 716-525-3319 tom.maniscalco@gmail.com for further information.

Getting To Know…Juan Carlos Flores

2010-07-26T22:03:00.005-04:00

It takes a lot of wonderful volunteers to keep Katrina’s Angels flying high. Let me introduce you to a recent addition to our team, the new Human Resources Assistant Director, Juan Carlos Flores.

Flores chose to donate his time to Katrina’s Angels about one year ago. Searching for a good fit on Volunteer Match, he decided that our organization best represented his interests and would offer him an opportunity to gain experience in the field of Human Resources.

This is Flores’ introduction to the field of Human Resources. A student at Devry University, he is working toward a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. His most recent occupation was working as an Enumerator for the United States Census Bureau, in which his tasks included: conducting interviews with residents of assigned areas, assessing quality control levels of selected addresses and maintaining records of various aspects of the job, such as hours worked, units produced and miles driven.

As a HR Assistant Director, Flores looks forward to being a strategic force behind the organization. He hopes to help in recruiting volunteer with efforts that are geared toward our organization’s Mission and Vision statements. He would like to use HR strategies to teach volunteers in building skills and taking on responsibilities that will assist Katrina’s Angels.

Flores lives in Hemet, California. A newlywed, he married his wife Alexsandra in June 17, 2010, which was their fourth anniversary as a couple.

Now, here are some fun facts about Juan Carlos Flores:

1. Do you have any special hobbies? Reading Social Psychology books.

2. Do you have any pets? None. But I used to have 2 Siberian Huskies not too long ago. One was named Scoobie, who was the male dog, and Brownie, the female dog. They were very playful and loving pets; they would dig a lot of holes in our backyard, though.

3. What's your favorite TV show? My favorite TV show is Sports Center.

4. What music do you enjoy? I enjoy every almost every type of music. From House to Rock.

5. What's your favorite book? The Bible.

6. What's your favorite food? Seafood.

Author: Jessica Kemper

Needed: Donations, School Supplies, and Volunteers in IL!

2010-07-26T14:44:00.003-04:00

There has been flooding in our part of the country, and Katrina's Angels (http://www.katrinasangels.org) has a request. Can anyone please donate to Katrina's Angels (http://www.katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp) so we can get school supplies for the inner city and Westchester, IL kids affected by the recent flooding? The area schools were inundated with water and sewage, as were many homes and businesses. Katrina's Angels, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit disaster relief organization so all donations are tax-deductible.

I plan on meeting up with Greg Conklin, Response Coordinator for Neighbors Across the Land Disaster Relief and Recovery (http://www.NATLDRR.org) (NATLDRR) as they arrive to help clean the mess from flooded homes and basements and especially help the uninsured and elderly.

WE NEED HANDS-ON VOLUNTEERS! Please sign up at: http://www.katrinasangels.org/Volunteers.asp.
We also need money for flood bucket clean-up supplies like bleach and mops. And if anyone has drywall or flooring they can donate, they can contact me, ProgramDirector@katrinasangels.org, and I will connect you with the proper person.

Thank you!

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

Time To File Oil Spill Claims

2010-06-16T19:51:00.003-04:00

Just thought I would pass this on from BP America Alert:

For full details on how to file or check on a claim, including specific form for commercial fishermen, crabbers and shrimpers, please visit our claims site by following the link below.

http://www.bp.com/sectiongenericarticle.do?categoryId=9033791&contentId=7062345

Hope this helps someone!

Karen Iwicki
Program Director
Katrina's Angels, Inc.

Interested in Volunteering with Oil Spill CleanUp?

2010-06-10T22:32:00.004-04:00

As you all know, one way Katrina's Angels helps in disasters is to help spread good information. Therefore, today I would like to let the public know about more ways to help due to this oil spill.

Oil Spill Volunteers
From http://www.oilspillvolunteers.com:
May 27, 2010 - Each of the four Gulf of Mexico states affected by the BP spill have established their own web sites for volunteer coordination within their states. We are working with each of the states to provide email addresses of our volunteers. Everyone who registered at OilSpillVolunteers.com must register at the state sites. The new state registration forms provide much more detail on volunteer qualifications and interests, so that the full OSV database is not directly transferable.

•Volunteer Louisiana - http://www.volunteerlouisiana.gov/ 800.755.5175
•Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service - http://www.mcvs.org
•Volunteer Florida - http://www.volunteerflorida.org/
•211 Connects Alabama - http://211connectsalabama.org 866.869.4921

If you live outside the region, be aware that the number of local volunteers seems to greatly outnumber the opportunities for volunteers now. You should identify a specific volunteer role (and make plans) before traveling to the Coast.

Birds/Wildlife:
A new Audubon Volunteer Response Center opened in Mississippi.The center will serve as the hub for recovery efforts throughout the Gulf. Under the direction of Sean Saville, National Field Director for Audubon, volunteers are already on the ground, helping to transport birds and playing many other roles.
AUDUBON LAUNCHES NATIONAL OIL SPILL VOLUNTEER RESPONSE CENTER
http://web1.audubon.org/news/pressRelease.php?id=2580

The National Audubon Society will use the facility in Moss Point, Mississippi along with organizers deployed to affected areas in four states to contact, coordinate and mobilize more than 13,000 volunteers who signed up with Audubon in the first weeks of the disaster. That number is expected to grow.

More Ways to Help with the Oil Spill

2010-06-07T17:04:00.005-04:00

This is a horrible disaster to befall our nation. Therefore, Katrina's Angels will continue to post various ways you can contribute or help during the nation's worst oil spill ever. Here are a few more below:

Consider participating in volunteer opportunities through Deepwater Horizon Response, the agency coordinating the response to the spill, which includes such agencies as the Environmental Protection Agency, Interior Department, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and BP. A call is being put out for firefighters, EMTs, police, paramedics, physicians and nurses, as well as anyone aged 18 and older who may be asked to take on such tasks as pre-cleaning beaches, administrative duties, record keeping and office jobs. Contact their Volunteer Request Line at 866-448-5816 or visit them online. http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/go/site/2931/

Metairie,LA - Volunteers - A note requesting help with oil spill booms & other:
The American Red Cross is open from 9am to 4pm Monday through Friday. We normally recycle Mardi Gras beads, but are receiving boxes of hair and nylons. You're welcome to come in any time during our open hours to make booms or sort beads. We currently have someone here who is doing both today! We're at 925 S. Labarre Rd in Metairie,LA off of Airline Hwy. http://www.arcgno.org/

Also from the National Wildlife Federation- Talking to Your Kids about the Oil Spill:
http://www.nwf.org/Kids/Ranger-Rick/People-and- Places/Ranger-Rick-on-The-Big-Oil-Spill.aspx
(Thanks, Nancy!)

More ideas and comments on this and other national disasters, as well as a Nrtional Resource Library, can be found at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/KatrinasAngelsinActionForum/messages

Collect Pantyhose and Hair Clippings to Aid Oil Cleanup

2010-06-01T13:46:00.004-04:00

Because we try to be good stewards and help others, I wish today to make others aware of the following group. Matter of Trust takes man-made and natural surplus and puts it to good use; in this case, hair clippings can be used to aid in the oil spill clean-up.

From their site at MatterofTrust.org: JOIN IN - EVERYONE - ALL salons, groomers, alpaca and llama fleece farmers, hairy individuals, & pet owners... can sign up to donate hair, fur, fleece, feathers, nylons and funding... PLEASE SIGN AT http://www.matteroftrust.org/programs/hairmatsinfo.html It's free & fast.

We shampoo because hair collects oil. Why should millions of pounds of absorbent, natural, renewable hair, fur, and fleece clippings go to waste every day?

For further details about Matter of Trust and how you can help, go to www.matteroftrust.org

Also take note. This is one group collecting hair and pantyhose: Donations of pantyhose or hair clippings can be dropped off at Aha!, 6270 W. Park Ave. in Houma, LA. The clippings should be clean and free of foreign objects, such as hair pins. To get news and updates from Aha! Salon log onto www.ahamassageclinic.com. .

Sites to Help with Flood Preparation and Remediation

2010-05-12T14:44:00.004-04:00

With all of the relentless rain and flooding occurring, we just don't know who might be affected next. So Media Angel Jessica Kemper put together the following list of web sites that are full of tips on flood preparation as well as what to do during and immediately following a flood.

With storms and flooding in high gear this year, you may be thinking about preparing your house for a flood. When looking for advice, remember, technology is your friend. With all of the resources on the Web, information is just a type and a click away. Here is a list of Web sites to get you started.

1)FEMA (http://www.fema.gov/hazard/flood/index.shtm; http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/flood.shtm)
Information on this site is actually a bit bare; though it is effective if you want tips spelled out in simple, concise terms. The niftiest feature is the flood map.

2)National Flood Insurance Program (http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/)
This is an excellent site to visit for data. With information on everything from flood causes to flood risk scenarios to flood insurance, NFIP is a one-stop resource for flood schooling. Particularly helpful is a service on the site that tells you when flood maps for your area will be changed.

3)Environment Agency (http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/business/topics/116875.aspx)- This is the site to visit if you are a business owner or run an infrastructure service. Brochures and checklists are among the materials offered on the site.

4)Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/)- A variety of information is covered by CDC. Though it offers a significant list of flood preparation advice, the site also offers important advice on what to do during and after the flood. Here, you can learn how to protect yourself when a flood accompanies other unfavorable weather conditions, such as cold temperatures. CDC also gives information on health and sanitation control following a flood.

5)Ready America (http://www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/floods.html)- Ready America provides a good place to go if you want your information fast. A long list of flood basics is posted within a few scrolls. The site also provides links to resources that provide more detailed information.

6)U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (http://www.epa.gov/naturalevents/flooding.html)- This page is more geared toward the during and after moments of flooding than early preparation, but it’s a good resource all the same. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency answers such questions as what to do about your septic tank following a flood, and how to clean up the mold.

7)The Center for Food Security and Public Health (http://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/Flood_Recovery/index.php?lang=en)- Consider this a library of flood resources. Though this site doesn’t include its own lists of advice, it gives you links to resources about everything from protecting your pets in case of a flood to protecting livestock if you are a farmer.

KA Wants to Help Tornado Survivors in MS!

2010-04-27T14:52:00.011-04:00

Katrina's Angels (KA) recently put the word out on our web site at http://www.katrinasangels.org, about needing to prepare to help in the areas devastated by area floods, but it seems another disaster is also upon us.

KA is investigating how best to help those in the Yazoo City, MIssissippi area and other areas that were hit by devastating tornadoes the weekend of April 24-25. Please contact Resource Director Jesse Hearin (ResourceDirector@katrinasangels.org) if you have contacts in the area, ideas, time to volunteer, or the inclination to make a donation.

If you have a need following a disaster in your area, you may also email info@katrinasangels.org. We will try to get you the help or information to direct you to the help you need.

You can also post such needs on our Angels In Action forum at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/KatrinasAngelsinActionForum/ or just click on the Yahoo Groups! Join Now button to the right of this column, and join.

Katrina's Angels keeps a National Resource Library listed by state on the Angels In Action forum which our volunteers have compiled over the past few years. If you have any information to post, by all means, do so. Being a small, not yet funded, organization, we can always use more eyes and ears on the ground.

Katrina's Angels depends upon and appreciates all the support we receive from private and corporate donors and volunteers. Thank you for taking the time to read this blog.

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

New England and Iowa in Need of Assistance Following Floods

2010-04-04T11:44:00.001-04:00

The northeast was hit with three days of heavy rain this week, leading to the danger of flooding in several states. Likewise, Iowa was hit with flooding in March. With widespread evacuations, road closings and potential for damage, it’s clear that our friends in these states could use a few angels.

Rains in the northeast were spread from Maine to New York. “Raw sewage, garbage and oil are swirling around in the muddy floodwaters, creating a threat to people as they make their way toward and then down New England’s rivers and streams,” reported msnbc.com.

Rhode Island was hit the worst, facing its heaviest flooding in 100 years, according to Oren Dorell of USA Today. The pollution in Narragansett Bay proves a threat to Rhode Island’s shellfishing industry, said msnbc.com.

In other parts of the northeast, 10 inches of precipitation were dropped within 36 hours, reported Dorell. New York City; Bridgeport, Conn.; Islip, NY; and Boston, Mass. have endured their heaviest rains in years, according to the National Weather Service.

In addition to current flooding in New England and surrounding areas, Iowa was hit with massive flooding in mid to late March. Water levels in Cedar Rapids hit 94.52 feet on March 15. Many areas were forced to evacuate.

At Katrina’s Angels, we encourage our volunteers to lend a hand to these areas that have been hit with flooding. We are specifically looking for volunteers who would like to help by collecting donations of supplies. We are also looking for assistance in the delivery of the necessary supplies.

We are grateful to anyone who is willing to help from home, as well. Please post reports of natural disasters in your area, as well as any information you can find about road closings, shelters, and supply locations to our Angels in Action forum at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/KatrinasAngelsinActionForum/ or send an email to info@katrinasangels.org. We'd certainly appreciate it.

Many organizations are collecting donations locally, as well, such as Salvation Army, churches, and food pantries. Many of these organizations may be willing to provide resources and information for the Katrina’s Angels Web site.
Volunteers and citizens of flood affected areas, we encourage you to keep your eyes open for information and to help out however you can.

Please visit www.katrinasangels.org for information and updates about storms and floods. Also, to see more information from this article’s sources, please visit: http://www.usatoday.com/weather/floods/2010-03-30-flood-threat_N.htm and http://www.weather.com/outlook/weather-news/news/articles/rhode-island-awash-flood-dangers_2010-04-02.

-Media Angel Jessica Kemper

Weather-Related Headline Stories Are Available

2010-03-31T09:57:00.004-04:00

Are you aware that we post weather-related news headlines on our main web site? You can go to our web site at http://katrinasangels.org/, scroll down a bit, and you will see the News and Announcements box. Whether you see an article that may impact your area, or just see an interesting article, you may click on the link and you will be redirected to the proper page.

If there is a weather-related news story in your area that may have significant impact, please send us the link, and we will post it in our News and Announcements box at http://katrinasangels.org/. The link can be to an article on any news-related site.

If weather is impacting your area in a bad way, please drop us an email at info@katrinasangels.org, and we will see how we can help.

Katrina's Angels Has Posted Results

2010-02-23T16:18:00.004-05:00

Hello, Everyone!

Katrina's Angels (KA) recently updated the results page on the main web site at: http://www.katrinasangels.org/Results.asp Take a peek and see what we managed to accomplish with very little money this past year.

Like other non-profits, the recession has no doubt caused our donation amounts to be down, and because we receive no funding, we do what we can when we can to help alleviate the suffering of disaster victims in the United States. Therefore , we have been able to make a difference clearly because of you, our donors and supporters. We have also updated our web page at: http://www.katrinasangels.org/DonorThanksUpdate.asp, which acknowledges publicly our donors. Without them, we would not be here. Please note that we do have a few donors who wish to remain anonymous at this time, and we are respecting those wishes. Please let us know if we inadvertently left anyone out.

Speaking of donations, it would be wonderful if more of you took the time to use GoodSearch (http://www.goodsearch.com/)when you search the web. It is actually a Yahoo-based search engine, but when you search, and designate Katrinas Angels (Clarence, NY) as your cause (using no asterisk in the word Katrinas), Katrina's Angels receives a penny. That may not seem like much, but all those pennies, from dozens of volunteers and supporters like you, do add up to a significant donation. And donations help us to continue helping others. You can download the toolbar at their web site.

At Goodsearch, you will also notice that you can use Goodshop when buying things on the internet. Use GoodShop to find coupons and discounts at more than 1,000 stores, and a major percentage of every purchase will also go to Katrina's Angels. I just used GoodShop to make a purchase, and over $4 will go back to KA. That means Katrina's Angels can create another supply kit for a flood-stricken family.

Those are two painless ways you or even your children and friends can help Katrina's Angels. I'm sure you can think of more.

Thank you so much for caring about Katrina's Angels and being there for us, so we can be there for those in desperate need.

Sincerely,

Karen Iwicki
ProgramDirector@katrinasangels.org

Sow A Seed in URGENT need of volunteer Warehouse Sorters/Packers

2010-02-23T16:16:00.001-05:00

Sow A Seed, a non-profit organization serving Haiti is in URGENT need of Warehouse Sorters/Packers.

Here are the details:

DATE: Wed. 2/24/10
TIME: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Shifts can be split)
PLACE: Warehouse - 7209 NW 41st St., Miami, FL 33166
CONTACT: Erica Halloun/Volunteer Coordinator- ehalloun@gmail. com ( 305) 794-3574

Heavy lifting will be involved so a few men with strong backs would he greatly helpful. Teens over the age of 16 with adult supervision are welcome. They need 20 volunteers total to sort/pack and ready a shipment of relief supplies that is going to Haiti.

www.sowaseedonline. org/

Posted by request of Leslie Teltoe, Citizen Action Team

Shake, Rattle, and Roll #2

2010-02-12T11:59:00.004-05:00

Remember this: http://katrinasangelsblog.blogspot.com/2008/04/shake-rattle-and-roll.html from April 18, 2008?? Well, it happened again two days ago...

I was awakened in the wee hours of Wednesday morning from a deep slumber. Startled by my parakeets chirping frantically, flying and slamming on the sides of their cage, I just felt confused. I looked outside and saw nothing. I kept talking to my pet birds, telling them everything was okay and scolding them for waking us up. Then I went back to sleep.

Hours later, when I heard about the 3.8 quake that rolled just 50 miles or so from my home in SE WI (http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/geneva/features/x626049433/Apparent-earthquake-shakes-the-suburbs), I remembered that when I tried to get out of bed right away, I kind of fell back into it. Disabled, I thought I was just shaky on my feet...

I realize now that I need to think twice when things like that occur. If only to increase my awareness should something worse happen. And I really love my feathered friends, especially since I know they can warn me if something is going on.

And to have something that unusual occuring twice in two years along the same fault line does make me wonder...

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

Update on Gowanda, NY Flood Relief: Dec, 2009

2010-01-22T17:36:00.006-05:00

It always takes months to recover when disaster strikes. Katrina's Angels tries to be there to help, as well as to comfort those in need. I know it's been several weeks, but I wanted to update you on our efforts to help those in Gowanda, NY.

At Christmas, Katrina's Angels Vice-President and Financial Director, Cheryl Bystrak, got volunteers together and held a little party for ten of the largest families of flood victims that were not receiving help from other groups; this included 34 children. Names were supplied by the Tri-County Recovery Center. Pizza, cookies, and pop were served. Each child received a cloth stocking filled to the brim with goodies and toys. Each child also received three toys supplied to Katrina's Angels by the US Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation.

And each family received a $50 gift certificate to a local store to purchase their Christmas dinner items, plus a nice warm blanket with a snowflake pattern on it. In addition, toys were also donated to a local group of families in need. And KA's very special family, a wounded Iraq veteran and his family, received items to be used to restore the supplies and teaching items for their autistic son that had been lost.

Katrina's Angels could not have extended a hand if it weren't for our generous donors and volunteers, and we thank you.

KA Fundraiser for Doctors Without Borders: Help With Relief in Haiti

2010-01-20T11:39:00.007-05:00

As you all know, Haiti has been hit with an earthquake that has wreaked havoc that may have reportedly resulted in the deaths of 200,000 people. The actual death toll may never be known. It will take years for this poor, tiny country to heal itself.

Katrina's Angels is a national disaster relief organization, but due to the magnitude of this disaster, we want to help. Numerous organizations are accepting donations to send to Haiti including Doctors Without Borders. Hearing the distressing need for doctors, medical care, and medicines to save the injured, Katrina's Angels will be doing its part by holding a fundraiser to support Haiti Relief with all funds going to Doctors without Borders, http://doctorswithoutborders.org/.

Shop Avon! Go to
http://sokelley.avonrepresentative.com/online_event/view.php?rep_spnsr_evnt_id=29049

Use the code "KAHaiti" upon checkout to have 25% of your purchase price donated to the Katrina's Angels fund for Haiti. All funds will be directed to Doctors Without Borders for Haitian Relief. Be sure to shop with the code "KAHaiti" in order for your purchase to be counted! This fundraiser is being hosted by longtime Katrina's Angel volunteer, Shayna O'Kelley. Thank you for your support!

Disaster in Haiti

2010-01-19T22:47:00.003-05:00

As we all know, Haiti has been struck with a tragedy of catastrophic proportions. With the deaths of over 100,000 people and the destruction of countless homes, the citizens of Haiti are in need of help.

Currently, President Barack Obama has banded together with former presidents Bill Clinton and George Bush to begin fundraising efforts, in a drive titled Clinton Bush Haiti Fund. However, as Todd J. Gilman of The Dallas Morning News reports, Bush reminded the public not to set expectations too high too soon. As Gilman wrote, “disaster response often takes longer than the public wants, and expectations can never be met in a crisis.”

U.N. World Food Programme is working on a plan to provide one week of food rations to 2 million people in Haiti, according to CNN. U.S. troops are offering assistance, as well. According to CNN, the Army’s 82^nd Airborne Division provided 2,500 meals in Petitionville of Port-Au-Prince.

In addition, aid is being offered in the form of medical assistance and supplies. According to CNN, U.S. officials have set up 14 aid distribution points. The U.S. Naval Ship Comfort, a fully-equipped hospital on water, has been sent to Haiti to offer medical aid.

Wondering what you can do to lend a hand? As CNN reports, “The leaders said the best way for Americans to help Haiti is to donate money.” Numerous organizations are excepting donations to send to Haiti, including Doctors Without Borders, American Red Cross, CARE, and Food For the Poor. For more information on how to donate, visit http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/01/13/haiti.earthquake.how.to.help/index.html?hpt=T2.

Katrina’s Angels will be doing its part, as well. Plans are currently being made to begin a fundraiser to support Haiti by contributing the funds raised to Doctors without Borders. Stay posted on our website, www.katrinasangels.org, for more information.

Sources

Dawson, Christopher; Wilson, Jacque; and Zerba, Amy. Money needed most in Haiti earthquake relief efforts. CNN. January 14, 2010. http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/01/13/haiti.earthquake.how.to.help/index.html?hpt=T2.

Gillman, Tony J. Bush talks up Haiti relief efforts, deflects Katrina questions. The Dallas Morning News. January 17, 2010. http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/news/washington/stories/011710dnwashbush.890fd861.html

U.S. troops hand out meals as Haiti relief effort takes shape. CNN. January 17, 2010. http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/americas/01/16/haiti.international.aid/.

Written by:

Jessica Kemper, Katrina's Angels Volunteer

Florida Frost is Nipping at Orange Groves

2010-01-09T15:21:00.002-05:00

Sure, Floridian are not shoveling through blizzards or shivering in below zero temperatures. However, it’s cold in Florida right now! For a Floridian who’s accustomed to weather in the 90s all year long, it’s a shock to wake up to temperatures at 22 degrees, which have been recorded in Hernando County.

According to the St. Petersburg Times article, “January’s freeze not about to let up,” by Kim Wilmath, Kameel Stanley, and Jessica Vander Velde, this cold front isn’t going anywhere soon. Despite an afternoon reprieve on January 7, temperatures are expected to stay low through the weekend.

So, what’s the problem? Not only is the sudden chill in the air a shock to Floridians, but it isn’t sitting well with our citrus, strawberries and other crops. Supermarket prices will rise on the newly fragile orange and strawberry crops, which have been damaged by frost, according to the article.

According to “Can Farmers Salvage Citrus from Frost?” by 13 News reporters Janelle Jordan and Heather Sorentrue, citrus crops create a $9 billion industry for Florida farmers. While damage has been mild so far, an extension of the cold front could lead to a loss of thousands, even millions, of dollars in profit.

In the article, Showcase of Citrus owner John Arnold stated that frost has so far caused a loss of around 20 percent or more of his crops.

Concern from growers has led Governor Charlie Crist to sign an executive order allowing state agencies to lend a hand, according to “Extended Period of Cold Raises Fears for Florida Crops,” an article by Maria Newman for The New York Times.

Florida agricultural commissioner Charles H. Bronson has also asked Governor Crist to remove the weight limit placed on produced trucks, allowing farmers to bring harvested crops to safety.

Let’s cross our fingers that farmers can save our crops. If not, prepare to spend a little more on food in 2010.

Jessica Kemper

Sources:

Stanley, Kameel; Vander Velde, Jessica; Wilmath, Kim. (2010, January 7). January's freeze not about to let up. St. Petersburg Times , pp. 1B, 10B.

Newman, Maria. (2010, January 5). Extended Period of Cold Raises Fears for Florida Crops. The New York Times. Retrieved from http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/06/us/06weather.html.

Jordan, Janelle and Sorentrue, Heather. (2010, January 7). Can Farmers Salvage Citrus from Frost? 13 News. Retrieved from http://www.cfnews13.com/Business/LocalBusinessHeadlines/2010/1/6/can_farmers_salvage_citrus_from

A Banner Hangs in Clarence, NY

2010-01-03T13:11:00.009-05:00

A banner now hangs in Clarence, NY bearing the name of Katrina's Angels. We purchased the banner following the crash of Flight 3407 so that a memorial could be dedicated to those that lost their lives that fateful day of February 18th, 2009.
This memorial clock that stands near the crash site in Clarence, NY, is dedicated to those that lost their lives that fateful day.

The check from the proceeds of the banners sold went to erect the clock and a permanent memorial plaque on the site.

Photos courtesy of Angels Cheryl Bystrak and Mark Krawczyk, respectively.

Help A Wounded Veteran's Family this Christmas!

2009-12-02T13:29:00.008-05:00

Katrina's Angels, a registered non-profit, has been helping disaster victims for over 4 years. Our goal this month is to help the flood disaster families in Gowanda, NY have a nice Christmas. We are planning something extra special for the children, and need everyone to help. In addition to Christmas for the kids, we are helping some families with guft cards for Christmas dinner.

In addition, Deacon Fred of the Gowanda area recently shared a story of one special family of four, parents with a 5 yr old daughter and 4 yr old son, that lost all their belongings in the floods last September.

The father is an injured soldier from Iraq recovering from head trauma after a roadside bomb blew up very close to him. Doctors have said that he will be disabled for life. Their 4 year old son is autistic. They say the hardest thing was losing the whole basement full of equipment as it was specially set up for this little boy. Special equipment and learning supplies...all were ruined. They are surviving on Dad's monthly disability payments, so they just don't have the cash to replace the son's much-needed equipment.

Katrina's Angels has made them their special project. But we need funds to help. If you can help, go to www.katrinasangels.org and check us out. If you can donate, go to: http://www.katrinasangels.org/Donate.asp

We will keep you updated on Gowanda and this special family.

Thank You for your continued support!

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

While doing your Christmas shopping...

2009-12-01T16:41:00.003-05:00

Please remember to try GoodShop as you shop for your loved ones this Christmas.
Go to: http://www.goodsearch.com/goodshop.aspx and enter Katrina's Angels (Clarence, NY) as your charity and Katrina's Angels will benefit from a percentage of your purchase. Check out the site for all the different shops that contribute.

Reminder: Avon Benefit for Katrina's Angels

2009-11-30T20:56:00.002-05:00

Shop Avon and benefit Katrina's Angels!
http://sokelley.avonrepresentative.com/online_event/view.php?rep_spnsr_evnt_id=2\0316

Use the link above to shop with Avon and 25% of your total purchase will be donated to Katrina's Angels! Be sure to use the code "KAHOLIDAYS" upon checkout to shop between today and December 31! Forward the link to your friends and fellow Katrina's Angels supporters!

Get your holiday shopping finished from the comfort of your home. Free delivery to your door with a $30 purchase and help benefit Katrina's Angels at the same time! Happy holidays and happy shopping!

Program Director Karen Iwicki here. Currently, we only have one order in! Shop Today! They have LOTS of super sale items!

Cheryl Bystrak Named Angel of the Month for November

2009-11-20T11:38:00.005-05:00

Chosen as Angel of the Month for November, Vice-President and Financial Director Cheryl Bystrak is a Licensed Practical Nurse in the state of New York and held the title of Charge Nurse for many years until she became a stay-at-home Mom to daughter, Samantha, 9.

Having been raised with strong beliefs in helping others, Cheryl actively helped Hurricane Katrina evacuees find housing beginning in September, 2005. Having the support and understanding of her family, she remained a dedicated volunteer and Housing Director for Katrina’s Angels until there was no longer a need. Having previously been a professional bookkeeper, Cheryl remains on as our Financial Director.

“However, she has always worked above and beyond our expectations,” said Karen Iwicki, President and Program Director for Katrina’s Angels. “Lately, Cheryl has outdone herself, packing tote bags with personal care items, and then distributing them to flood victims in Gowanda, NY. Once there, Cheryl spent the weekend with her niece and daughter and other volunteers, cooking, baking, and preparing meals for flood victims and other volunteers.”

In addition to keeping track of Katrina’s Angels’ accounts, Cheryl searches the internet for good deals on supplies and personal care items for victims of disasters. She writes numerous letters requesting help and/or donations. She is also beginning grant writing for the organization, and often attends seminars and volunteer gatherings to get the word out about Katrina’s Angels and to actively seek out volunteers.

What makes her even more unique is that she does it all while using a wheelchair or crutches. She suffered a spinal injury several years ago that precludes her from many activities. However, it does not stop her from volunteering to help others. Her desire to help those in need seems endless. As Angel of the Month, she is a good choice. Congratulations, Cheryl!

Gift Cards and Donations Needed for the Holidays

2009-11-20T11:32:00.003-05:00

Hello,

Jessica Kemper, Katrina's Angels October Angel of the Month, is emailing her friends the following message to help raise funds and gifts cards for the Holiday Season, which Katrina's Angels will distribute to flood victims in New York and Georgia. It would help our fundraising efforts tremendously if each person reading this took a few minutes to do the same. Just copy/paste the following message and send it to your contacts:

Hello! I'm just writing some good friends to share some information about a good cause. I'm a volunteer representing a hurricane relief organizationcalled Katrina's Angels. We are a non-profit provide assistance to areas that are affected by hurricanes and other natural disasters. Right now, we have volunteers that are working in the areas of Gowanda, New York and Atlanta, Georgia that have been damaged by floods. They are assisting with such tasks as clearing debris and providing supplies. For more information about their efforts, visit http://katrinasangelsblog.blogspot.com/. For pictures of the devastation in Atlanta, visit http://www.katrinasangels.org/Atlanta%20Recovery%20Efforts.asp.

Katrina's Angels is also raising money for seasonal campaigns. We are raising money to help victims of natural disasters buy food for the Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, and to buy toys for Christmas. We also accept gift cards. Send them to:

Katrina's Angels Financial Director Cheryl Bystrak
10535 Bergtold Road
Clarence, NY 14031

However, Katrina's Angels does wonderful things to help out all year long. For a list of accomplishments that our organization has completed since 2005, visit http://www.katrinasangels.org/Results.asp.

For more information about Katrina's Angels, visit http://www.katrinasangels.org.

If you would like to make a contribution or sign up as a volunteer, please visit the website. All donations are tax deductible.

Thank you,

Your name
--
Anything you can do as a volunteer to help our cause is appreciated by the organization. Please email me if you would like to learn more about our Holiday Season Campaign. Also continue to look for updates as we roll out new campaign ideas.

Kindest regards,
Robin Peak
ResourceConsultant@katrinasangels.org

Vote for Katrina's Angels at Chase Community Giving!

2009-11-20T11:24:00.001-05:00

Chase Community Giving offers grants to non-profits in need. I supported Katrinas
Angels, Inc. by voting for them to win $25k with #chasegiving.

It's on Facebook at:
http://apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/charities/598115?confirm_vote=true

Please fan, vote, and tweet! http://bit.ly/SPxa4

Shop Avon and benefit Katrina's Angels!

2009-11-20T11:15:00.002-05:00

Shop Avon and benefit Katrina's Angels!
http://sokelley.avonrepresentative.com/online_event/view.php?rep_spnsr_evnt_id=2\0316

Use the link above to shop with Avon and 25% of your total purchase will be donated to Katrina's Angels! Be sure to use the code "KAholidays" upon checkout to shop between today and December 31! Forward the link to your friends and fellow Katrina's Angels supporters! Get your holiday shopping finished from the comfort of your home. Free delivery to your door with a $30 purchase and help benefit Katrina's Angels at the same time! Happy holidays and happy shopping!

Media Angel Shayna O'Kelley

GA Flood Relief Update 4

2009-10-19T16:18:00.003-04:00

Greg Conklin has been diligently working to help clean up houses and deliver supplies and food to the flood victims of Austell, GA. Katrina's Angels has helped with fuel, some personal hygiene supplies, school supplies, and other items. In addition, some great Community Angels have helped, including Doris Mcquiller and Karen Ellington, who have spent time at the warehouse sorting clothes and other supplies and preparing food baskets for distribution to the flood victims.

I, myself, have packed supplies into a dozen or so reusable tote bags today, and they are on their way to Austell to be distributed this weekend.

Katrina's Angels and NATL need your help with the flood victims in Austell, GA. We need funds to continue to provide help in the area. http://www.auctionsrfun.com/KA/stormupdates.html

You can also check out photos of the flood area here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=113701&id=141601072759&l=6f7511400f

Thank you so much for helping!

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

GA Flood Relief Update 3

2009-10-15T12:21:00.002-04:00

Good morning! Response Coordinator Greg Conklin of NATLDRR.org (our partner organization on the ground) is still deployed and working on the ground in the Austell area. Greg has partnered us up with Sweet Water Valley Community Action Mission Program at svcamp.org.

6289 Veterans Memorial Drive
Building 12-A
Austell, GA 30168

Greg reports this morning that they really need volunteers to help sort clothes and other items as well as make up food baskets to distribute to area flood victims. They will welcome any volunteers from Katrina's Angels.

They are accepting donations including food or clothing or other items. If you or others have items to give, donations can be taken to the center.

Thank you so much for helping us to help those who have so little left!

Karen Iwicki
ProgramDirector@katrinasangels.org

Georgia Flood Relief Update 2, Photos Available

2009-10-14T11:19:00.005-04:00

NATL Response Coordinator Greg Conklin posted photos last night of the flood destruction and work being done in Austell, GA. View them by going here http://www.natldrr.org/photos.html and click View All Images.

Greg is tentatively leaving Friday unless conditions get worse again. He has been working to get other non-profits throughout the state to get volunteers lined up and trained. He has also delivered much-needed supplies, including handing out Katrina's Angels tote bags filled with personal hygiene and other items, school supplies, and other items provided by KA, all the while keeping an eye on the river level to watch for more potential flooding from the last couple of days' rain. Local Emergancy Management is also keeping an eye on the river levels.

Last night, Greg's plans were to go north of Atlanta to check on the river level and assess current needs in that area with all the rain received. I will update you as soon as I hear anything more.

GA Flood Relief Update

2009-10-13T13:46:00.004-04:00

Katrina’s Angels (KA) and our partner, Neighbors Across the Land Disaster Relief and Recovery (NATLDRR), are working together on flood relief in the Atlanta, GA area. You can follow us here or on twitter or facebook as the groups work together to clear debris from houses and deliver supplies to flood victims.

Response Coordinator Greg Conklin (of NATLDRR) is currently in the Atlanta area. Here is his latest tweet: Georgia ground is very saturated and cannot hold more water. Not expected to dry out until spring time because this is the wet season. ~Greg

It seems a few more inches of rain fell on the Atlanta area yesterday, and half the the state of GA under flood watch or warnings and included a tornado warning in south part of GA. He also tweeted Parts of GA received up to 5 in. of rain. Our help is needed now more than ever!

Greg is in the area to clear debris and deliver supplies and generally just help people out. Supplies he has include the following from Katrina's Angels: 1 case of markers, 2 cases of school glue, 1 case of composition books, and 25 reusable KA tote bags filled with personal supplies such as personal hygiene items, coloring books, crayons, hand sanitizer, and other items to be given out to those in need (one per family).

Hands-on volunteers are needed. These people cannot do this alone. If you can, please sign up here: http://www.katrinasangels.org/Volunteers.asp and someone will contact you as soon as possible.

Fundraisers and donations are needed as our coffers are low. We will be very grateful for any help you can give us. Even $1 helps!

Thank You!

GA Flood Relief

2009-10-08T09:26:00.005-04:00

Katrina’s Angels and our partner, Neighbors Across the Land Disaster Relief and Recovery, will be working together on flood relief in the Atlanta, GA area. You can follow us here or on twitter or facebook as we work together to clear debris from houses and deliver supplies to flood victims.

Response Coordinator Greg Conklin (of NATL) is currently headed to the Atlanta area from NY.

Hands-on volunteers are needed. If you can, please sign up here: http://www.katrinasangels.org/Volunteers.asp and someone will contact you as soon as possible.

Fundraisers and donations are needed as our coffers are low. We will be very grateful for any help you can give us.

Thank You!

Evacuation Safety

2009-10-05T23:31:00.003-04:00

Safe-proofing the home, stocking up on bottled water, and putting batteries in the flashlights. These are all basic precautions that many people take when a hurricane threatens to blow in their direction. However, what preparations should a person take to ensure a safe evacuation?

At what point should you consider evacuation? We asked some experts from Pinellas County, Florida, for their opinion, but the answers can be applicable to your community and severe weather conditions. Tom Iovino, a storm emergency manager for Pinellas County, states that evacuation is an option to consider even when the hurricane is as low as a level one, especially in flood-prone coastal areas. However, hurricane safety advocates, such as Pinellas County Emergency Management, stress the importance of ensuring safe transportation during evacuation.

Skip Kolbe of the Sun Toyota Auto Center, in New Port Richey, states that vehicle tune-ups are common during the hurricane season. However, Ron, of Tuffy Auto Service Centers, in Tarpon Springs, states, “No, people wait ‘til the last minute.”

When making the trip in your own car, Pinellas County Emergency Management recommends check-ups on vehicle basics, such as tires, brakes, and oil, as well as having jumper cables and a first-aid kit on hand. Kolbe recommends getting the battery inspected, “to make sure your car starts,” and getting tires checked for quality. Ron recommends getting a general inspection to accompany an oil change. He recommends having your belt checked and making sure “fluids are in good shape.” He also suggests that these inspections be done before and after the start of hurricane season.

Options are available for drivers to be cautious of dangers on the road. The website for Pinellas County Emergency Management, found at www.pinellascounty.org, posts a list of weather-related road closures. Find your county’s or state’s Emergency Management website and bookmark it. The Pinellas County organization also offers the option to receive emergency updates via text messaging. To receive this service, contact (888) 689-8905. Check to see if your emergency management department offers this service.

Iovino also reminds evacuees or anyone on the roads during a hurricane or storm, to stay away from heavily flooded areas. Attempting to drive through deep water may cause your vehicle to become stuck, leading to further damage and danger. If faced with this obstacle, he recommends turning around and finding a new route.

Public transportation is also available, if a person is unable to drive themselves. Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) offers public bus transportation during hurricanes. Bob Lasher, of PSTA, states that most evacuation shelters in the area may be found on the regular route, however, PSTA will divert buses for special cases. He also states that a special staff works on the streets to assist evacuees in need of transportation. Bus admission is free during an emergency. The bus drivers, mostly volunteers, will be sent back to the station once “winds hit tropical storm levels.” Lasher states that the drivers may stay at the station if the severity of the storm doesn’t allow them to safely travel home. Get familiar with your town’s public transit system and the locations of local emergency shelters.

Services are also provided for citizens with special needs. These citizens must register with the special needs registry, and the local fire department will assist in making transportation arrangements. To register for special needs evacuation assistance, residence living in Pinellas County can fill out the form found at http://www.pinellascounty.org/forms/special-needs.htm. If you known of a special needs person that may need this service assist him or her with getting registered in their area.

Katrina’s Angels and our partner, Neighbors Across the Land Disaster Relief and Recovery, are currently working in Gowanda, New York with the Tri-County Recovery Coordination Center to bring attention to the damaged done by widespread flooding and to help the local disaster relief effort. You can see pictures of the flood relief effort underway in Gowanda by visiting facebook. Gowanda desperately needs volunteers to assist with the cleanup and our partner on the ground is heading for Atlanta this week to help with relief efforts there, so if you would like to volunteer then please contact Katrina’s Angels. Send us an email (info@katrinasangels.org) or to register online click volunteer. Click DONATE to make an online contribution.

Jessica Kemper, Media Angel

Gowanda, NY Flood Relief Update

2009-10-05T18:15:00.005-04:00

October 3, 2009
According to Greg Conklin from Neighbors Across the Land ( http://www.natldrr.org/deploycurrent.html ): Most of the major relief is done in Gowands, but there is still lots to do for recovery.

Volunteers from Katrina's Angels including our own Cheryl Bystrak and Amber Over
fed volunteers and victims today at the shelter. Media Angel Mark Krawczyk volunteered by assisting Greg all day with clearing debris and delivering supplies.

Katrina's Angels has loggers acting as Hands-on Volunteer Angels coming tomorrow that will be cutting down trees and mucking out houses through Thursday. Thank you to Donald Winter and his business partner for volunteering!

Greg delivered water, hazmat suits, bleach, hygiene kits, and all other relief supplies to the local distribution center today. Some items were donated to
Katrina's Angels by Home Depot, including gallons of bleach and two cases of
water. They will need more. Greg wants to extend his thanks to Lenihan
Intermediate School in Marshalltown, IA for hygiene kits donated through NATL!
The families in New York thank you!

Greg also reports that they had a truckload of furniture donated today. just got
done unloading it! Tomorrow, they will be demolishing a mobile home that was
lost in the flood.

Greg said that "although there have been major strides in the area relief
effort, getting back to normal is not here yet. Most houses are ready for
recovery...if you would like to come help rebuild a house, let us know!"

He reports that Deacon Fred Johnson, with Love Inc, has done a great job of coordinating and has been enjoyable to work with.

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

Gowanda Rock’n Relief ‘09 Flood Relief Benefit October 4

2009-10-03T15:36:00.003-04:00

Gowanda Flood Relief Benefit
Start: 10/04/2009 - 1:00pm
End: 10/04/2009 - 9:00pm
On October 4, Love, Inc. of the Greater Gowanda Area along with various members of the community will be hosting a Gowanda Flood Relief Benefit, Rock’n Relief ‘09, in an effort to raise donations for rebuilding area homes and neighborhoods that were lost and damaged during the Gowanda flood of August 9-10, 2009. The Gowanda Flood Relief Benefit will be hosted at the Gowanda American Legion Post 409, located at 100 Legion Drive in Gowanda, New York.

With a $20 admittance donation, festivities will run from 1:00 – 9:00pm and include live music, beer, soda, food, hog roast, silent auction, door prizes and 50/50 drawing. The event will also host a bounce house for children and be “kid friendly”. Children under 12 are free with paid parent or legal guardian, and children under 18 accompanied by both paid parents are free. Presale tickets are available at the Gowanda American Legion or at the door. On the day of the benefit, volunteers will also be needed to help with setup and organization of the day’s events and activities. Just show up after 9am and let them know you are there to volunteer.

Gowanda, New York and neighboring towns suffered tremendous losses of over 80 million dollars in damages to homes, roads and neighborhoods. It was a devastating event that also claimed the lives of Ted Stitzel and Floyd C. Farley of Gowanda, New York, and this day will be in their memory.

Now today the community and families are left without homes or are still displaced due to the flooding. The Gowanda Flood Relief Benefit is the community’s response to turn around this tragedy and bring some relief back to families and the community, by helping them to rebuild their homes and neighborhoods, with your help!

Small donations such as food, clothing, and small appliances can be made at 10 Jamestown Street, Gowanda, NY 14070. Large donations such as bulk item food and furniture will also be accepted, please call 716-801-2526 for details.

Low Volunteer Turnout in Gowanda, NY

2009-10-03T14:32:00.002-04:00

Just told there is a very low volunteer turnout today following flooding in the Gowanda, NY area. Only a handful of volunteers are there today. Katrina's Angels and our partner Neighbors Across the Land (http://natldrr.org/deploycurrent.html) are in desperate need of volunteers to clear debris and mud from homes, make meals, and hand out supplies. Please volunteer for Hands On Volunteer Angels at http://www.katrinasangels.org/Volunteers.asp

Be an Angel! Lend a Hand!

Follow us on Twitter!

2009-10-03T11:50:00.004-04:00

Follow Katrina's Angels on Twitter and keep up with all of our flood relief updates! http://twitter.com/katrinasangels

Access our state-sorted National Resource Library and posts on disasters all over the country! http://groups.yahoo.com/group/KatrinasAngelsinActionForum/

Check out our main web site. Click on the tabs for fundraising ideas, volunteers needed, and other items.
http://www.katrinasangels.org

Gowanda, NY Desperately Needs Volunteers, Supplies

2009-10-02T13:03:00.006-04:00

I am writing this morning to ask for your help. After meeting with Deacon Fred Johnson, coordinator at Tri-County Recovery Coordination Center this morning, it is apparent that the Gowanda, NY area is in desperate need of volunteers. Mr. Johnson is overhwelmed as this is the first widespread disaster they have ever had. If you can help clean up the houses and basements, help cut down fallen trees, supply kitchen help or in-kind donations such as box fans, dehumidifiers, and personal care items, please contact us at info@katrinasangels.org. There is a place nearby where volunteers are provided a cot to sleep. Financial Director Cheryl Bystrak will be at the site this weekend to help in the kitchen cooking food for the volunteers, who will be provided with two meals a day. You can contact Cheryl at FinancialDirector@katrinasangels.org or contact me at ProgramDirector@katrinasangels.org.

Gowanda, NY Needs Our Help for Flood Relief

2009-09-28T16:30:00.005-04:00

During the August rains, the town of Gowanda, NY was severely hit by flooding. Now that the Red Cross and other first responders have completed their part, Katrina’s Angels (KA), generally second responders, is stepping up to the plate. Partnering once again with Greg Conklin and Neighbors Across the Land disaster relief and recovery, (http://www.natldrr.org/deploycurrent.html ), KA is stepping up its relief efforts.

Coordinator Greg Conklin will arrive in New York on Wednesday to meet with Katrina's Angels Financial Director Cheryl Bystrak and to begin helping Deacon Fred Johnson, coordinator at Tri-County Recovery Coordination Center. Some volunteers are set to arrive on Friday and stay for a week, but we will need local volunteers to muck out flooded houses as well as basements of the elderly who are unable to do so. We also need people with chain saws to cut fallen trees. If you want to volunteer, contact us at info@katrinasangels.org or register at:
http://www.katrinasangels.org/Volunteers.asp.

Anyone who can donate extra fans or dehumidifiers, or linens/personal hygiene items, please contact Cheryl at FinancialDirector@katrinasangels.org as they are really needed at this time.

Here's a suggested list of what we need: deodorants, bar soap, body wash, bandaids, neosporin, bactine, box fans, dehumidifiers, washcloths, aspirin, toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, diapers or gift cards and cash donations to make direct purchases.

Gowanda has a large amount of people who are homeless and need our help. Won’t you please consider lending a hand?

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

Jessica Kemper: Angel of the Month, September 2009

2009-09-04T01:08:00.005-04:00

Meet Jessica Kemper—a real go-getter. Jessica is a 21 year-old Katrina’s Angels (KA) student volunteer who is presently working towards a degree in Journalism and Media Studies at the University of South Florida (USF). The University of South Florida holds the honor of being one of our nation's top 63 public research universities. The esteemed Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching places USF among one of only ten public research universities in the country to be designated as both "very high research" and "community-engaged." It is easy to understand why USF received this honor, if even a small fraction of its student body is made up of socially conscientious students like Jessica.

Since joining the organization Jessica has put her talents to work writing articles and blogging about issues related to the plight of victims hit by natural disasters. She also assists with resource pooling and information sharing to raise awareness of Katrina’s Angels’ mission to support communities affected by disasters. I asked Jessica, who aspires to do magazine writing after graduation, why she selected Katrina’s Angels. She said, “My favorite part of volunteering for KA is getting experience with different types of projects and forms of media. I like making the flyers, and I liked the radio bits. I chose to volunteer at KA because I wanted media-related experience, but I liked the idea of getting to do something helpful at the same time.”

In addition to being a Katrina’s Angels Media Angel, Jessica currently works as an activity assistant at the Life Care Center, a physical and occupational therapy rehabilitation facility. However, true to her passion, she makes time to write for three of her own blogs:

Everything and Anything – a little bit of everything for a little bit of anyone;
Chow Down Tampa – a celebration of food;
Chow Down Tampa Bay! For Dieters – diet friendly recipes, ideas and product reviews.

She said, “If I get to work for a magazine, I'd love to write about entertainment, or else food and fitness. And I also like to write fiction, and have done a full screenplay.”

Did I mention Jessica is a prolific writer? Well, it will not surprise you to know she also writes about Tampa’s live music scene for a website called “The Examiner.” When I asked Jessica about her playlist she told me, “My latest music recommendation would be the CD Dear Science by TV on the Radio, as far as recent albums go, and one of my favorite new singles playing right now is I've Got Friends by Manchester Orchestra.” Thanks to Jessica’s recommendation, I will be adding two new songs to my personal playlist: Crying and Family Tree. Check out Jessica’s blogs and her music recommendations. To read her blogs, click on the links included above. If you have iTunes you will be able to listen to any of these artists for free.

Thank you, Jessica. You are an outstanding volunteer, for helping to improve your community, as well as donating your time to support our cause. Katrina’s Angels is proud to recognize you as the Angel of the Month for September 2009. It is not a matter of “if” but “when” we will be seeing some of the best magazines featuring articles written by you…the talented author, Jessica Kemper.

Congratulations,

Robin Peak

Resource Consultant

Katrina’s Angels Inc.

Hurricane Katrina and Pass Christian, MS

2009-08-29T19:34:00.004-04:00

My family and I lived in a home just off the beach in West Pass Christian in August of 2005. August 29, 2005 is a day that will be talked about in Pass Christian, Mississippi for at least the next 200 years. I have loved Pass Christian since I was a little boy playing on the beaches with my cousins. Everything about it, the piers, the harbor, the shrimp po-boys at Pirate's Cove, the St. Paul Seafood Festival, the friendly local library – was all part of a kid-friendly family paradise. There were days where you could have the whole beach to yourself, if you didn't mind the seagulls, the pelicans, the Gulf and the sunshine. You don't have to lock your doors and you can go to Church in sandals. It is still, to this day, my favorite place in the whole world.

As we look back on Katrina after four years, some valuable lessons were learned. A catastrophe of this size will expose the strengths and weaknesses in your community, your family, your friends, your organization, your government, and yourself. It was clear as bell after Katrina hit, who was genuine and who was fake. Politicians, business leaders, insurance companies, and other “so-called” leaders were exposed as all talk and no substance. Unassuming citizens were elevated by their kindness in their heart and their quiet sincerity. Talk was not only cheap, it was a waste of time. The talkers were all exposed for what they were, and the quiet citizens, the volunteers, the true friends, all raced up to replace them. What a wonderful lesson to be learned!

I will never forget walking with my family to search the remains of the slabs in our old neighborhood and seeing Robin Roberts of ABC news standing off to the side of the road, weeping at at what had happened to her hometown. That meant so much to me. Robin Roberts made sure the country knew we existed and she did it with class and dignity.

But most of all, I remember the volunteers who came from all across this country to help their fellow citizens rebuild their lives. I remember the kids in the National Guard who left their families and lived in tents so we could have safe streets and neighborhoods. They never complained and always smiled and were polite as they waved me through on my way back to the empty home without water, electricity, or gas, that I lived in for several weeks after the storm. Too many locals gave them difficulty as if they were an inconvenience (and as if they were in charge of the United States government). If they weren't complaining, how could I complain? I thanked them each and every time I passed through a checkpoint.

I remember the volunteers who manned the relief tents where I went every day to get ice, clothes, supplies, and food. They were incredible. One of the most interesting parts of the whole experience was picking out fashions at the relief tents. The volunteers treated you better than anyone at Macy's ever did. They'd help you find your size, point out some of the nicer items you might be interested in, let you know when the next shipment of ice was coming. All with a smile and never even the hint of their own incredible sacrifice. Imagine, coming to help me just because you think its the right thing to do! I believe I ended up with a Quiet Riot t-shirt at one point in the process.

And the kids and young folks who came from the church groups, non-profits, schools and colleges. All eager to help others. All willing to work all day for someone else's benefit. Truly a beautiful display of the best the human heart can muster. Each and every one of them sent me a powerful message that I desperately needed to hear – you are not alone, do not give up! It is these people who inspired me to join Katrina's Angels. It is these people who made me vow to help others when they needed it. It is these people, these volunteers, who I hope to emulate when someone needs to know – you are not alone, do not give up!

Jesse B. Hearin, III
ResourceDirector@katrinasangels.org

In the Aftermath of Hurricane Katrina

2009-08-29T16:05:00.004-04:00

Four years ago, I was just a concerned citizen, watching CNN coverage of Hurricane Katrina and worrying about how the hurricane would affect the poor people of the Gulf coast. Within days, I found myself on the Craig’s List hurricane forum, reading post after post – desperate pleas from those in need; people offering clothing, food and supplies; volunteers wanting to help; people asking where to go. No one seemed to be matching them up, and few had the time to actually go through the posts. I remember many of the posts were asking “please reply.” So, by the next day, I was matching those in need with those who had the supplies; those areas which needed volunteers with various things the volunteers said they would like to do or had knowledge to carry out. I simply would copy and paste both emails into one and send copies to each poster suggesting that they contact each other.

I never had any intention or inkling of doing so, handing over so much of my time so freely to help others. I never thought I would still be here four years later, now Program Director for Katrina’s Angels, a 501©3 non-profit for disaster relief. I just wanted to help, as did hundreds, perhaps thousands, in the weeks following the hurricane’s wrath. In the aftermath, I had never seen anything so tragic, so all-encompassing in its effects on our country.

One thing I do remember from my own life is that any little thing someone does after a disaster or tragedy can mean so much. I remember having been through a terrific flood in 1986, losing almost everything, and starting over. It’s the simple things, the small gestures, from a hot meal to help filling out papers, to a basket of things at Christmastime, that got my family through those dark days afterward. I still remember those things fondly. And that’s why I continue to want to help, and Katrina’s Angels wants to help, in whatever way we can to bring a little brightness back into the lives of those who are struggling to overcome when disaster strikes.

If you want to help, please give generously or extend a hand. Someone just may remember your small gesture years later…even if they can’t remember your name.

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

Tragedy Strikes in Taiwan

2009-08-16T12:21:00.004-04:00

Katrina’s Angels would like to extend our sympathy and support to the citizens of Taiwan. On August 8, 2009, southern Taiwan was hit by Typhoon Morakot, subjecting this island to its heaviest flooding in 50 years. Tony Coolidge, founder of Katrina’s Angels, who presently lives in Southern Taiwan with his wife and children reported: “This is the worst we have seen in our lives.” The storm moved slowly with gusts of up to 115 mph and lasted for 3 days. In its wake, it left severe flooding, debris, destroyed crops, and the deaths of hundreds of citizens in mountain locations. Our hearts go out to those affected by this natural disaster. For a harrowing firsthand account of the storm’s damage, read “Typhoon Morakot: ‘The Fruit was Blown off the Trees,’” the story of Tony Coolidge, posted by The Guardian Weekly.

Katrina’s Angels has limited resources. Normally, we only provide assistance to victims of natural disasters in the United States; however, we cannot ignore the plea for assistance from the Tzu Chi Foundation, one of the most highly regarded and effective international relief organization helping the victims of Typhoon Morakot. They are the USA chapter of the worldwide organization whose members were on the front line of Hurricane Katrina and 9-11. “There will be water, food and medicine shortages. Diseases will spread and there might be an epidemic. Whether we can cope with this kind disaster and how long it will take to get back to normal one cannot say, said Tony Coolidge.”

Hurricane Katrina taught us the impact of this type of disaster will be long-term. Here’s what we all can do: offer assistance with resources and help raise awareness. Please pledge your support by donating now!

CLICK HERE TO DONATE.

Jessica Kemper
Media Angel

Robin Peak
Consultant

Katrina Inspires Green Living

2009-08-04T20:15:00.002-04:00

I was reading an article today on The Weather Channel website, called “Couple rebuilds green after Katrina,” written by Tammy Smith. It featured a couple in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, Robert Wiygul and Julia Weaver. The pair was forced to move on and rebuild a new home following the damage of Hurricane Katrina. With their new home, they decided to put greater emphasis on both safety and benefitting the environment.

To achieve a safe and “green” home, there are quite a few interesting touches to this home. Energy efficient insulated concrete form insulates their exterior walls. The attic is completely sealed as an efficient way to block out moisture. Wood floors are made of bamboo. A gas fireplace is installed because it releases fewer pollutants than a wood burning fireplace. Reading the article, I thought, how nice that this couple found a way to turn their new start into a positive and environmentally healthy beginning.

So, I did some research, and found that green-living is becoming something of a trend in rebuilding from Katrina’s torment. One article, “Katrina Rebuilding Includes Solar Panels, Organic Farming and Hybrid Buses,” published in The Huffington Post and written by Cain Burdeau, speaks well with its title. It details some of the more energy efficient ways that New Orleans is rebuilding itself. In the Lower 9th Ward, around 20 homes are now using solar paneling. 2,800 properties are being improved every year by way of a new energy efficient program that includes insulation, weather stripping, and the use of fluorescent bulbs. In addition, 39 new public buses have been released that run via hybrid power.

There is also an organization called Global Green USA that works on “stemming global climate change by creating green buildings and cities.” Following Hurricane Katrina, this organization has set out to improve the environmental friendliness of New Orleans during the city’s rebuilding. Its latest project is the Holy Cross Project, which is focusing on building a central area of energy efficient homes and buildings in New Orleans. This community will consist of five single family homes, an eighteen unit apartment building, and a community center/sustainable design and climate action center. For more information about Global Green USA’s projects in New Orleans, visit http://www.globalgreen.org/neworleans/.

I find all of this inspiring. It’s wonderful that some good can come out of such a horrible tragedy. In the process of rebuilding a beautiful city, these citizens are finding a way to improve the environment, as well.

Jessica Kemper
Media Angel

Tampa Bay Charity Events

2009-07-22T16:42:00.007-04:00

Attention Katrina’s Angels volunteers: keep in mind you can post information about your local community to our Angels-In-Action forum. For information on the forum or to keep up on the latest Katrina’s Angels fund-raising campaigns, visit the Katrina’s Angels web site, weekly. Also, look for opportunities in your community to post information about the organization’s mission and ongoing fund-raising campaigns. Volunteers can email info@katrinasangels.org to request a copy of our newest brochure, or get assistance with flyers that you can print and post in your local supermarkets and community libraries. Here’s what is happening in my community:

Thanks to the community page on http://www.wmnf.org/, I discovered that there are several charity events going on in my own neck of the woods this month. That forest being the Tampa Bay Area, of course, as well as some of Manatee County. If you or anyone you know lives in the Tampa Bay area, or Manatee County, perhaps you would like to check out some of these events. You may even have a little bit of fun.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Tampa RiverWalk for Wishes

Make-a-Wish will be holding a benefit walk starting at 7 PM. The walk begins at the Tampa Convention Center, and ends at Channelside Convention Complex, where a Happy Hour Celebration will be held. For more information, visit http://www.wishcenter.com/.

Friday, July 24, 2009

The Divine Equine II-Horses Healing Veterans

The Quantum Leap Farm in Tampa’s Westchase Village hosts equine programs for returning veterans of the War in Iraq. This event, from 6:30 to 8 PM, features the sale of equine-themed art, raffle prices, and food and wine. Benefits support the Quantum Leap Farm’s equine classes. For more information, visit http://www.quantumleapfarm.org/.

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Lake Sarasota community cleanup

Sarasota County is hosting a community cleanup for Lake Sarasota. For more information, call 941-861-5000.

Tea Party and Fashion Show

The International Baptist Church of St. Petersburg will host a Tea Party and Fashion show from 6 to 9 PM. Black Nova Collective provides live entertainment. For more information, call 727-422-2150.

Back to School Give-A-Way and Health Fair

Here’s a chance for some of you to reap a few benefits. Advocates For Safer Communities, Inc. is sponsoring this event at the Hope Center in Tampa from 11 AM to 3 PM. Enjoy the benefits of community resources, free entertainment, and free lunch.

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Inaugural Sarasota Cornhole Championship

For those of you who are familiar with the game cornhole, The Burns Square Association will host a championship for the bean-bag toss game. Proceeds benefit the association. For more information, visit http://www.burnssquare.com/.

Jessica Kemper, Media Angel

Thank you for your votes!!!!

2009-07-13T13:21:00.001-04:00

Thank you so much for your votes! Katrina's Angels will win 50% of all revenue generated from the Yugster Price Comparison Page for the month of July! You can help just by using the Price Comparison for all your online shopping needs. And why wouldn't you? You're being frugal, saving money, AND contributing to a worthy cause. Start using the Price Compare Page now:

http://www.yugster.com/deals.html

A big thank you to everyone that voted in this month's Charity Poll.

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

Attention: Please vote TODAY for Katrina's Angels!

2009-07-08T16:07:00.001-04:00

Please vote TODAY for Katrina's Angels!

Karen Iwicki
Program Director

This website put Katrina's Angels on there to receive part of their profits for the month!!! BUT it has to be voted on......... we have to get people to go to the website so they can vote for us!!!

Hey Charitable Yugsters,

It's a brand new month and that means it's time to decide who will win
Yugster's Charity of the Month contest!

http://www.yugster.com/charity.html

This July, we've got three top contenders vying for the top spot. The
organization with the most votes will take home 50% of all the revenue
generated from the Yugster Price Comparison page, located here:

http://www.yugster.com/deals.html

Here are the charities to choose from, as suggested by our Yugster
Members...

Surfrider Foundation (http://www.surfrider.org): The Surfrider Foundation is a
non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment
of the world's oceans, waves and beaches for all people, through conservation,
activism, research and education. Strategic initiatives include Clean Water
(protect and restore coastal water quality from the ridges, through our
watersheds and out to the nearshore ocean where we surf, swim and recreate),
Beach Access (promote the right of low-impact free and open access to the
world's waves and beaches for all people),
Beach Preservation (protect and preserve healthy beaches that are important
coastal ecosystems and recreational areas), and Protecting Special Places
(proactively conserve, protect, and restore special coastal and ocean places).

Katrina's Angels (http://www.katrinasangels.org): Katrina's Angels is
national volunteer effort that is driven by the generosity of people
wanting to make a difference for those communities affected by federally and
state-declared disasters. They are committed to providing coordinated solutions
to rebuild the lives of those in communities affected by disaster through
volunteers and partners. They have hundreds of volunteers registered in with the
organization at various times, and a growing list of partners who work together
to serve the needs of those people affected by federally and state-declared
disasters. Following the hurricanes of 2005,Katrina's Angels had 900+ evacuees
and their families register and many
families had every one of their needs filled.

charity: water (http://www.charitywater.org): Right now, 1.1 billion people on
the planet don't have access to clean and safe drinking water. That's one in six
of us. charity: water is a non-profit organization bringing clean, safe drinking
water to people in developing nations. charity: water uses 100% of the money
raised to directly fund freshwater wells and basic sanitation projects in some
of the poorest communities in the world. The local community is engaged in the
well building process, carrying out small tasks for free to reduce labor costs.
This also encourages community participation and ensures community ownership
after the project is
complete. When the well is built, a water committee is formed. It generally
consists of 6-8 people, half of them female. In the case of hospitals, the
committee will generally consist of nurses and hospital staff. In schools,the
committee would likely be comprised of teachers. Since charity: was founded and
began activity in August 2006, we have funded the construction of more than
1,247 wells that, when completed, will provide clean drinking water to 650,000
people.

Now do your part and get your vote in ASAP:

http://www.yugster.com/charity.html

Thanks!

-Team Yugster

Lightning Safety Awareness Week is June 21-27

2009-06-29T13:55:00.005-04:00

NOAA’s National Weather Service says “When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors”

It's Lightning and Safety Awareness Week. Please read about the danger lightning poses and the precaution you should take.

Our love of outdoor activities and the frequency of thunderstorms make summer the most likely time to be injured or killed by lightning, according to statistics compiled by NOAA’s National Weather Service. In order to reduce lightning injuries and fatalities, the National Weather Service is promoting Lightning Safety Awareness Week the last week of June.

More than 70 percent of lightning fatalities occur between June and August, says John Jensenius, the National Weather Service lightning expert who tracks and evaluates lightning deaths for the agency.

Annually lightning strikes more than 400 people in the United States. About 60 of those die, and many more are left with devastating and permanent disabilities. The National Weather Service studies lightning fatalities in order to know where to best target its lightning education efforts. For example, men are struck far more often than women, sustaining about 85 percent of lightning deaths. And men under 40 account for 60 percent of all lightning fatalities.

High resolution (Credit: NOAA)

“At the start of summer when people are getting ready to enjoy outdoor activities, we want to remind them that lightning is very dangerous,” says Jensenius. “Lightning can kill – so remember - when thunder roars, go indoors.”

New for its 2009 campaign, NOAA has produced a dramatic video public service announcement by Ohio college student Ellen Bryan. Bryan’s sister, Christina, was seriously injured in a lightning strike nine years ago. A Miss America hopeful, Ellen Bryan has made lightning safety her personal pageant platform. View the video public service announcement on the National Weather Service Lightning Safety Web site.

NOAA also has published a new brochure, Lightning Safety for You and Your Family, which provides basic facts about lightning and information on how to stay safe during potentially deadly thunderstorms. It provides information for people participating in organized outdoor activities and identifies actions to take if someone is struck by lightning. The brochure is available on the lightning safety Web site.

To avoid being struck by lightning, the National Weather Service recommends that you:

Get into a fully enclosed building or hardtop vehicle at the first rumble of thunder;
Stay indoors for 30 minutes after the last thunder clap;
Monitor the weather forecast when you’re planning to be outdoors;
Have a plan for getting to safety in case a thunderstorm moves in;
Do not use a corded phone during a thunderstorm unless it’s an emergency; cell phones are safe to use;
Keep away from plumbing, electrical equipment and wiring during a thunderstorm.

NOAA understands and predicts changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and conserves and manages our coastal and marine resources.

Resource Director, Katrina's Angels

Web Site Additions and Revisions

2009-06-24T22:28:00.003-04:00

Technology Director Chas Honce and I have been hard at work updating the Katrina's Angels web site at www.katrinasangels. org. You will notice several revisions and major additions today and tomorrow including a new Our Results page, updated Fundraising Campaign Page, an updated Program Leadership page, and updated Thank You, Donors page (may be ready tomorrow). Check them out!

The Our Results page was updated with help from Student Volunteer Matthew Braunstein from Northern Valley Regional High School in Demarest, NJ. Thanks, Matthew! This page includes accomplishments from 2005 through 2008. Check out what we've managed to accomplish thanks to everyone!

Karen Iwicki
Program Director