This strays a bit from the original topic of this particular thread, but on the charity subject ... about 1,000 or more "refugees" as they are now being called are being housed in local barracks at an airport here near Nashville. More come everyday.
I work in a medical clinic here and we've already seen, and treated, several people from the New Orleans area who have lost everything. Just saw several families today in fact, it's very sobering and humbling to meet them personally and hear their hardships first hand. Many of them commented today, in tears, how grateful they are to everyone around here for being so generous and kind.
Anyway, back to the charity aspect ... the people at the airport are in desperate need of supplies, so pretty much everyone I know and have talked to has already begun to clear out their homes of anything they no longer use or can spare. It's so amazingly touching to see how, in these unthinkable times of crisis, people really do come together to try and bring some good out of a tragic situation. I, myself, have already gotten together 2 boxes of clothing and some other random items that might be of use. I urge anyone to do the same if you can, donating money is wonderful but sometimes other more tangible items help just as much, if not more. I think it's a wonderful idea to send books to the Astrodome! If you're close enough to any spot the victims may have relocated to, clothing, food, books, toiletries (sp?), and other items may be more useful in the immediate future than just cash. That's just the word we're getting here in Middle TN, and it seems that is the general word all around now. They are *begging* us for supplies, not money.
I can't imagine being in the position these folks are in, but it's comforting to know that if I ever am in their situation, there are people out there who will do whatever they can to help. The worst really can bring out the best in all of us, and while I know people all over the world have truly extended themselves to the victims of Katrina (and for that we are all eternally grateful), I honestly can't remember a time I've been more proud to be an American other than 9/11. I plan to do whatever I can to help, and I know that so many of you feel the same.
Sorry for straying a bit off topic, now back to your originally scheduled programming!