By CANDACE MIERS

 

clm049@latech.edu

In support of those who have lost so much in the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, a group of people united in a relief campaign called The Katrina Foundation for Recovery.

Complemented by the slogan “Band Together for Katrina,” the foundation formed to help raise support by selling Katrina wrist bands. 

“All proceeds from the bands will be dispersed to licensed non-profit organizations in an effort to help all those affected by the hurricane,” Kathy Reeg, president of The Katrina Foundation for Recovery, said.

The recovery foundation was founded by North Louisiana citizens fueled by the desire to provide relief, both in monetary donations and emotional support.

“We, the board, are humbled by the response and awed by God’s provision for every detail of the Katrina Foundation for Recovery,” Reeg said.

The blue and white Katrina bands are sold for $5. These donations will go directly to supplying food, clothing, shelter, medicine, education and transportation into the communities assisting in relief, according to The Katrina Foundation for Recovery Web site.

The Web site, www.bandforkatrina.org, has detailed information about the recovery foundation, its goals and how-to’s on ordering the bracelets.

They can also be purchased at the following locations: Student Government Association Office in Tolliver Hall, Lincoln Parish Public Library, the Ruston-Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, Community Trust Bank main branch, Tech bookstore, The Ruston Daily Leader and at Tech home football games.

Goals for the foundation are found in the mission statement of the foundation, Reeg said.

“The Katrina Foundation for Recovery is a nationwide humanitarian organization developed in the unprecedented aftermath of Hurricane Katrina,” according to the statement. “The objectives, for the organization are restoring hope, rebuilding lives and providing relief to communities and individuals affected by Katrina.”

Justin Wade, a freshman agricultural business major, said he wants to help in providing relief to victims.

“I can’t even begin to imagine losing everything I’ve ever known -- the least I could do is to buy a couple of bands to support those who have suffered,” he said.

Jonathan Wheelis, a freshman chemical engineering major, said he agrees with Wade on the fact that people should support the Katrina recovery cause.

“Five dollars is just $5 to me. But, to Katrina victims, I imagine $5 is a matter of getting back up on their feet again,” Wheelis said. “The only thing I can’t figure out is why the bands look like a tidal wave. I would think citizens wouldn’t want to be reminded of too much water.”

The “Blue Band,” as the Katrina band is called, is a tangible reminder to the nation there are people dedicated to ensuring support for the reconstruction and restoration of New Orleans and the Gulf Coast region, according to the Web site.

Reeg said she was making a tremendous effort to get these hope symbols out all across America like the Web site proclaimed.

“These bands are going out all over Louisiana and all across the nation, from Governor Blanco’s office to President [George W.] Bush,” Reeg said.

There are other ways to help the recovery of the Gulf Coast even if these “blue bands” are not available.

Wade said, “Whether or not people can give a $5 donation, the gift of prayer is priceless.”