Disaster Relief Report Hurricane Ida / District 8N

The Lions District 8N, which covers southeast Louisiana was severely impacted by hurricane Ida. Hurricane Ida lashed Louisiana on Sunday, August 29, making landfall near Port Fourchon as an “extremely dangerous” Category 4 storm with sustained winds of 150 mph. A storm becomes a Category 5 at 157 mph. Ida then churned inland, bringing catastrophic winds, heavy rainfall, and tornadoes, along with flash and urban flooding plus life-threatening storm surge along the coasts of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. Death tolls continue to climb in several states — Louisiana officials reported at least 28 deaths.

Networking with Governor Scott Dudley, it became very clear that his District was hurting and the communities his clubs serve were in desperate need. After contacting several Lions within the Cabinet we started an effort to provide supplies to assist in recovering from the immediate impact of the storm.

Several clubs stepped forward with donations as well as the District Disaster fund. I want to thank the following clubs for their donations;

Beaumont Breakfast – tools and supplies
Beaumont Founders – $500.00
Livingston Lions – $250.00
Winnie Stowell – $500.00
District 2S1 Disaster Fund – $2,500.00

I also want to thank the Southeast Texas Civilian task Force for donating supplies that valued at over $18,000.

We ordered and shipped shovels, rakes, and saws directly to the Governor so they could be distributed as quickly as possible. On September 19^th we drove the supplies to the Manville, LA. Lion’s Den.

Following up with the Governor he has shared that the supplies have been completely distributed and the clubs are very appreciative of our support.

But the need is not done!

I would like to ask the Lions Clubs of the District to join Zone 7 in our planning for a holiday support effort.  We all know just because the media has forgotten about the storm’s impact does not mean life is back to normal. There are some areas still without some of their utilities, let alone housing and business repairs.  We could help in bringing a happier holiday to them by providing a warm meal, some need supplies, toys for the children, and warmth of know that they are not forgotten. Our current plan is to collect toys or money for toys and plan a cookout in one or two of their communities in the time period between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

We are looking for your support by contributing the following

• Toys and or money – this need will be determined by working with their lions clubs as we move forward.
• Helping us plan, supply, and cook a barbeque lunch in one or two of their communities
• Maybe adopt a club and cater our support to their unique needs
• Assist in the delivery of items
• Join us in bring some Southeast Texas hospitality and friendship to their troubled communities. A smile and hug cane go a long way when you are having hard times.

I ask the District to support this effort in any way possible.  Clubs and Zones can contact me to let us know of your interest and ways you can assist.  The holidays will be here soon and this could make your holiday truly a special one for you and your family.

Lion Ed Field
Disaster Relief Project Chair