Washington D.C., Oct 27, 2005 / 22:00 pm
Nearly two months after Katrina hit the Gulf Coast, religious groups continue to feed, clothe and house survivors, and they are committed to providing aid for as long as necessary.
Shelley Borysiewicz of Catholic Charities USA told the Washington Times her group has raised a record $63 million to support the disaster relief work of its local agencies, $31 million more than what it raised after 9/11.
Its 70 local agencies have concentrated on getting refugees into housing that could become permanent, such as vacant apartments or in buildings owned by the group.
For example, it has resettled 130 refugees in St. Louis through its Adopt-a-Family housing program, which pays the first month's rent and utility costs for up to six months, and helps families find other necessities. The agency in St. Louis also organized a job fair. A similar resettlement program exists in Los Angeles and Lansing, Mich. It has provided medical care and prescription medicines.