Chambliss Comments on Gulf Coast Disaster
Chambliss Comments on Gulf Coast Disaster
U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., today released the following statement regarding the ongoing efforts to stabilize the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina.
"First and foremost, my wife Julianne and I extend our deepest sympathies to everyone who is suffering in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Our prayers are with you all as you recover from this terrible natural disaster.
"Late last night, the Senate reconvened in a special session to pass a ten billion dollar emergency supplemental bill that will go toward the relief and recovery efforts led by the Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency. National Guardsmen from across the United States, including Georgia, are currently being deployed to Mississippi and Louisiana to assist the operation currently underway. The Department of Defense is sending more than 17,000 personnel and naval ships stocked with food, water, medical supplies and personnel to New Orleans. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has deployed teams to Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi to distribute ice, water and other supplies and to develop plans for temporary shelters and debris removal. This is only a sketch of the federal response to this tragedy.
"We are actively involved in conversations with FEMA, The Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Health and Human Services, the military and other government agencies to help facilitate relief efforts on the Gulf Coast and provide support to other cities across the south who need assistance tending to the needs of refugees. As Congress reconvenes on September 6, we will continue to take all measures necessary to restore every community ravished by this terrible storm.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to commend the folks in cities all across the south for extending hospitality to those who have been forced to leave their own communities. From Atlanta to Houston cities are opening their doors to refugees, some who escaped before the storm hit and some who are still be evacuated today. I am proud of the way these southern cities are joining hands to take in those who have no place to go and we will be here for those states as they need support to care for those individuals displaced from their homes on the Gulf Coast.
"We are hearing from folks all across the state who are very concerned and want to know what they can do to help the recovery efforts. I encourage all of my fellow Georgians to make a donation to the Red Cross or another reputable disaster relief organization. Even the smallest donation adds up to make a huge difference in the lives of those who have been left with nothing. If you are unable to give money, there are efforts underway to collect clothes and supplies.
"Georgians who want to donate money or supplies should contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-HELP NOW (435-7669) English or 1-800-257-7575 Spanish
http://www.redcross.org or FEMA at http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=18473
"Again, I cannot stress enough the dire need on the Gulf Coast and encourage all Georgians to continue to be mindful of the situation and pray for the quick recovery of this devastated region."
http://chambliss.senate.gov/News/singleNews.cfm?NewsID=370