Hurricane Katrina School District Recovery Program

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dnH3agnpdA8

Thank you to everyone for all your help making our back-to-school program such a success! After only two months of planning, we were able to help 22 schools and over 4,500 students. Here is what was accomplished:

• We handed out 4,500 backpacks filled with supplies to students pre-k through high school.
• Provided teachers at all schools with supplies and art supplies.
• Gave 15 schools a computer and printer.
• Gave 4 schools overhead projectors.
• Donated large standing copiers to 2 schools.
• Gave PE equipment to 14 schools.
• Donated 150 boxes of library books.

We also provided food, a computer and printer, and miscellaneous supplies to Common Ground, a charity located in the lower ninth ward, helping residents clean and rebuild their homes. They provide food, water, clothes, tools and other items; they work solely on donations.

While in New Orleans, we met residents from the ninth ward and other areas. In talking with residents they expressed that the rebuilding process was extremely slow, and any support and help they received was coming from small groups and charity organizations like Friends & Helpers. Due to the success of what we accomplished, we will continue working with the school representatives and Common Ground to bring more support, supplies and volunteer to help rebuild New Orleans.

During the holidays, we provided Christmas stockings and Wal*Mart gift cards to needy students. Wal*Mart is the one of the main stores open currently for residents and provides everything from groceries to home-repair items to clothing, accessories and toys. They even have a nail salon. We are in need of donations for our holiday programs. You can donate a gift certificate, make a pay pal donation and more. Email us to find out more.

Thank you again for all your support. We have sent out a special thank you to all who donated. If for any reason you did not receive a thank you, please email us at info@friendsandhelpers.org.

Friends & Helpers would like to thank the following companies and organizations for their support in the Louisiana Recovery School District Project:

• KROQ
• MusicForRelief.org
• The Society for Childrens Books Writers and Illustrators
• Linkin Park
• Fort Minor
• DC Shoe Company
• Bic Graphic USA
• AEG and the Kings Foundation
• Galpin Motors
• Nestle USA
• Band Merch
• BioWorld
• DHL – donating freight services!