The devastating floods in Louisiana, the effects of which are being compared to Superstorm Sandy and Hurricane Katrina, have left in their wake an estimated 40,000 damaged homes over an area covering 20 parishes. While the flood waters have receded in many areas and many of those affected have been able to return home, agencies are reporting that as of Thursday there were still approximately 4,000 being housed in area shelters. An immediate challenge for victims will be locating new or temporary housing, and replacing lost items as they work to rebuild and restore their lives.

RNRN/NNU staff have been closely monitoring the developing situation and have identified the following resources where RNRN and NNU members can best assist the victims of the floods:

• Second Harvest Food Bank is distributing food, water and supplies: https://give.no-hunger.org/checkout/donation
• Save the Children has deployed an emergency response team and is accepting donations here: https://secure.savethechildren.org

Those interested in assisting with direct, on-site relief can sign up with Volunteer Louisiana here: http://volunteerlouisiana.gov/. Specific opportunities listed include sorting donations, packing food boxes, cleaning out flooded homes, etc. All opportunities are posted on the Volunteer Louisiana blog here: http://volunteerlouisiana.gov/volunteering/blog/

Even as the flood waters recede in the immediately affected areas, concerns remain for those in downstream areas that may continue to see flooding from cresting waters in the coming days. RNRN/NNU will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide support and solidarity where it is needed for the victims. The clean up and rebuilding process is a long and difficult one, and our thoughts are with all who are mourning the loss of loved ones, homes and treasured possessions.