[StBernard] Update From State Representative Nita Rusich Hutter

[Westley Annis]

Update From State Representative Nita Rusich Hutter

February 7, 2006


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This is information is forwarded to you by request of the Department of
Social Services. 

Due to the end of the FEMA-funded sheltering for citizens declared
ineligible for FEMA assistance, the State of Louisiana is opening emergency
shelters. The state has also established a toll-free number, 1 (866)
310-7617, to assist hurricane victims who will be evicted by FEMA from
motels and hotels. FEMA estimates nearly 900 displaced families face
eviction from their FEMA-financed motel/hotel rooms today. On Monday, Feb.
13th, another 2200 families who are FEMA-ineligible will find themselves in
the same situation. 

Steps taken thus far are as follows: 

1. Two general population shelters have been identified to provide temporary
sheltering: one in north Louisiana and one in the south. This is intended to
be a short-term solution of up to 30 days while on-site, case management
assistance is delivered to assist families with longer-term plans.

2. Citizens in need of this emergency shelter must call the toll-free
hotline. As citizens call this number they will be screened and offered
available options, including the two shelters. The call center number is 1
(866) 310-7617 and will be staffed from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

3. LaSpirit Crisis counselors will be stationed at the call center; are
available to assist citizens as they are transported to shelters; and
located at the emergency shelter sites o The Department of Transportation
and Development will provide transportation services from motels/hotels to
transfer points in three areas (Alexandria, Lafayette and New Orleans). From
these locations, citizens will be transported to the shelters.

4. Several organizations, including DSS, the Louisiana Family Recovery
Corps, LaSpirit and United Methodist Committee on Relief, will meet the
citizens at the shelters. They will register these families, and will assess
their housing and human services needs.