Caring for the victims of Katrina

More than 300,000 evacuated from their homes. New Orleans students spread out over 20 states. College students forced to choose—study elsewhere or not at all. And AFT members wondering when, and if, schools in their district would reopen.

The devastation left behind by Hurricane Katrina has, in many respects, been of epic proportions. And now we’re witnessing an epic outpouring of concern and compassion from Americans, who have opened their wallets and homes to help the victims of Katrina. That kind of caring must be sustained, however, as those displaced by the storm seek to rebuild their homes—and their lives.

The AFT is teaming up with the AFL-CIO to support activities that will help our union colleagues and other working families affected by Hurricane Katrina. One way you can help is to contribute to the AFL-CIO’s Union Community Fund, labor’s charity for working families and communities in distress.

The Union Community Fund is a 501(c)(3) public charity, and all contributions are tax deductible to the extent permissible under the law. Visit www.aft.org/katrina to make a contribution. The union also is working with the AFL-CIO to help set up labor centers in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Evacuees can go to these centers to get information about obtaining housing and emergency benefits as well as emergency supplies for schools, etc.

In addition, the AFL-CIO hopes to identify more than a thousand volunteers from union households who will bolster the Red Cross efforts at various shelters in which displaced survivors of the hurricane are currently being housed. "Unions are meeting the enormous challenges posed by Katrina by preparing to play a unique and much-needed role in the relief effort," says AFL-CIO secretary-treasurer Richard Trumka.

Hurricane victims also can call toll-free 877/235-2469 (877/AFL-CIO9) to get
assistance from the labor movement.