Mississippi Presbytery Continues Katrina Recovery Two Years Later

by Russell Olderman

Where we are today and where we are striving to be could not have been accomplished without the dedicated services of George and Linda Bates. They and a handful of Gods people came down shortly after Katrina to assist in the recovery of this nation’s largest disaster to ever hit our American shores. Thank you all for leading the recovery charge!

Mr. Russell Olderman, who worked under Dr. Bates as site manager supervisor, is now guiding this Christian organization towards new goals which include new home building projects.

With the support of our terrific site managers the American Red Cross, Long Term Recovery Coalition, Salvation Army, International Relief and Development Corporation, volunteers (including Amish and Mennonite communities) and many small and large church groups, we are now in the process of constructing homes for victims. Up to this date we have four such homes built and will be in the process of more such projects starting this fall. For those concerned, we will still be reaching out to those who have smaller repair needs.

To continue to make progress in rebuilding Mississippi communities, the Presbytery is looking for churches to help adopt families. Prior churches have adopted families by offering labor or by purchasing furniture for certain rooms in the house. Part of the issue here is that we build the houses but have no furniture to furnish the home. We still need trades professionals and general labor to help with construction in home repair and building.

We still need help on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. You might consider volunteering with us in the warm and friendly communities of Mississippi. To contact us please call 228-604-2424 E-mail presbyrecovery@bellsouth.net and ask for Virginia, she will be happy to assist you with any answers to questions raised.