Statement by Rep. Michael C. Burgess on North Texans Generosity to Hurricane Katrina Evacuees

Statement by Rep. Michael C. Burgess on North Texans Generosity to Hurricane Katrina Evacuees

Fort Worth, TX, Aug 29 -

"I have always believed that the people of North Texas are kind and giving to all. During natural disasters and difficult times in the past, citizens of North Texas have always dedicated their time and resources to helping one another.

"When Hurricane Katrina swept through the Gulf Coast, an unprecedented number of families were displaced. Many of these individuals were left with nothing except the water and wind torn clothes on their back. In some instances, family members were split apart and many needed immediate medical care.

"As the days rolled on, thousands of Gulf Coast residents, primarily from New Orleans, made their way to North Texas. Our Fort Worth District Office at the Resource Connection became an emergency response center set-up by the Red Cross. I was there as bus loads of evacuees were brought in for food, water and care.

"Volunteers throughout the community were on hand and dedicating resources of all kinds including clothes, blankets, money, and toys. In addition to our facility, hotels and churches throughout North Texas opened their doors to accommodate the massive influx of people.

"The Dallas Convention Center because a sea of individuals. I am equally proud of the medical community of North Texas which responded quickly to the call for help. A fax went out through the medical societies for volunteers over the Labor Day weekend to help evacuees. Hundreds of doctors arrived, on their own time, and volunteered their expertise.

"But perhaps most telling of all was the story of one of my staff members who helped to reunite a mother with her child. On this one year anniversary, they have expressed their gratitude to our office for helping them find their way back to each other.

"These stories of care and kindheartedness were not unique during the Hurricane Katrina, but I am particularly honored to represent North Texas and all her volunteer heroes.

"I admit that there have been significant obstacles in the government's efforts to rebuild. Congress has appropriated a considerable amount of funds to this purpose, but we must do more. The federal funding not withstanding, it is imperative that we step-up our congressional oversight responsibility to insure that these funds are utilized effectively and wisely for both the American taxpayers and the citizens of the Gulf Coast.

"For my work, I have committed to working through the roadblocks, problems and bureaucratic red-tape that hindered and unduly prolonged the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina. I have supported legislation aimed at streamlining emergency response efforts at the federal level as well as bills to bring monetary relief and support to those who lost everything.

"Although we are not able to control natural disasters, we are able to control our response to them. We are a resolute country, and I know that we must constantly strive to mitigate the pain and suffering from disasters. We have learned from Katrina, but we must continue to improve our efforts and adapt accordingly. Everyone one of us has a responsibility to look after ourselves and a duty to help our fellow man. On this one year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, I am proud to say that North Texans showed their true grit, determination and generosity. Thank you again."

http://burgess.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=49203