REBUILD
the BIG
EASY
New Orleans is a very special
place. I've been there several times, visiting friends or working. The city
was a vital shipping center for the US, as well as a convention center and
tourist attraction. I love its pulse, the people, their friendliness, wonderful
jazz music on the street, the waterfront, delicious food and how easy it
is to get around.
Everything has changed. So many
residents lost their homes and are scattered over the country or homeless.
I watched the hurricane and its aftermath on TV and cried. I attended meetings
where I heard individuals tell their stories about what really happened.
And I saw Spike LeeÕs video.
For the past year, I wanted to
do something to make a difference. Well, finally, the time has come: I'm
going to New Orleans over the holiday with a 501 (c) 3 non-profit group that
helps Katrina survivors!
Lean on Me guts and repairs homes,
also distributes furniture, appliances, clothing, bedding, clothing, pots
and pans, everything needed for people to get back on their feet again. Based
in CA, Lean on Me relies on volunteers like me, from all over. The group
will provide food for us, but
we are responsible for travel
(which is expensive, as it is peak travel time) and the cost of a hotel room
(an additional discounted $100 for the entire stay).
Contributions will be used to
defray shipping costs (i.e. $250 to send a pallet of goods to New Orleans).
When I can raise sufficient funds, my airfare and hotel costs will be reimbursed.
(I already received several small donations). This is way to be involved
in a very worthwhile project. If you know any individuals or
businesses who might make a
tax-deductible contribution to a very worthwhile cause, please give this
information to them.
Even small donations do add
up.
Please make your check payable
to: Lean On Me, Inc. and send
to:
Dorri Jacobs, 784 Columbus Ave., Apt. 1C, New York,
NY 10025