What looks like a pile of rubble now is where Maryse Dejean's family used to live. She says, "Now they have some make shift tents and they are able to take shifts and sleep in the driveway. Initially, they were sleeping in the Jeep." For days, she heard no news of her 81 year old mother, 80 year old uncle and 73 year old aunt.
Dejean says, "Communication did not begin until one day ago when my mother learned to text. Then she called in the middle of the night last night and the conversation we had was -- it was comforting just to hear her voice." It is comforting also to see people trying to make a difference. Sally Webster is an Americorps Volunteer who came to New Orleans to rebuild homes, but spent the day sorting supplies she hopes will help the people of Haiti rebuild their lives. Webster adds, "It has been really inspiring that people in New Orleans are reaching out, even though they are in the process of recovering from their own natural disaster."
Rice, beans, clothes, medical supplies and other items will be packed on a small plane along with eleven doctors headed to Haiti this weekend. They'll help in the short run. Long term, Maryse Dejean believes, "A plan needs to be worked up so that the city is evacuated and that as many people as possible are moved to the provinces and the outlying areas that are not as damaged as the capital." Because like New Orleanians know on a gut level.. rebuilding takes time.
Imani Temple at 2411 Treasure is collecting donated items. For more local relief efforts click WWOZ.org
