Wednesday, August 31, 2005

A Flood of Refugees

I have no stamina to write about the tragedy that has struck so near to home. Plaquemine has over 170 people staying on the hard floor of the local high school's gym. We may have as many as 400 more before the day's end.

These are people, like you and I, who have lost everything they own. Some have literally been plucked off of rooftops by rescuers. The ones who got out early left with a few changes of clothes and overnight bags, thinking to return home after a couple of days.

Now, their home is in Lake Ponchatrain. If you have any shred of human decency, much less a Christian character, you will give immediately to the Red Cross, or to the Southern Baptist Convention's North American Mission Board. They have people here, now, in my hometown. They are working to provide clothing, baby formula, shampoo, feminine products, blankets, etc. They are supplying the basic necessities. But it takes money to do these things.

You can afford $10. I am serious, if you are reading this and you turn the other way and do not help, you are a hypocrite. Walk on the other side of the road and ignore the man who's half-dead. If you do give, then you can be like the good Samaritan. For links on places to give, go to Centurion's website. He has links to all sorts of charitable, reputable organizations that are making a difference. $10, people. That will buy soap, shampoo, and a pillow for a cold, hard floor. It's the least you can do.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Well, the Red Cross is not the best place...unless they have changed in recent years. They have been known to charge for what they "give"...but the church, now that is another matter....would hope that 100% of what is given will go to help.

You must still be ok...above water...this is a horrific thing, but hopefully you and others nearby can also do some "reaping" of souls...after all, this is one way to bring good from tragedy!
Prayers and blessings...Elizabeth