U.S. - New Orleans

Almost four years after Hurricane Katrina, Elwood, his daughter, and his grandson were still living in two FEMA trailers outside of their home in New Orleans. Their home was almost completely destroyed by the storm.

Many have forgotten about the needs that still remain all along the U.S. Gulf Coast. But this past spring, Lutheran volunteers—along with their sisters and brothers from nine other Christian denominations—converged on New Orleans for a first-of-its-kind opportunity of service. Over the course of four weeks, more than 500 volunteers took part in the "Neighborhood: New Orleans" blitz-build project, helping to reconstruct 13 homes in one neighborhood. Volunteers from all walks of life gave up their vacation time to help homeowners like Elwood see the first major signs of improvement since the storm took away their homes.

We cannot predict when disaster might strike, but we can predict that when it does, Lutherans will be ready and willing to serve where they are needed. Lutherans are in it for the long haul, ensuring that homeowners know they have not been forgotten and bringing help and hope to those with ongoing needs.

Your gifts to ELCA World Hunger help support the Belvidere/Boone County Food Pantry and many other ministries like it through the ELCA Domestic Hunger Grants Program.