Committed to Success

An update on the current progress of the recovery effort

When Hurricanes Katrina and Rita slammed into the U.S. Gulf Coast, they set a new precedent for devastation and destruction. In their wake they left behind untold human misery and suffering that continues still in communities all along the Gulf Coast.

Such unprecedented devastation required an unprecedented response from Habitat for Humanity. Habitat immediately launched Operation Home Delivery to help coastal residents who lost everything to rebuild their homes and lives.

And while Habitat cannot be the answer to all low-income housing needs created by the storms, we do expect to assist thousands of families and, just as importantly, to work together in real partnerships with others to serve as a catalyst in the rebuilding process.

Despite the difficult circumstances, hope has begun to emerge in the affected areas. Habitat’s Operation Home Delivery plans to have 1,000 houses completed or under construction across the Gulf Coast by mid summer of 2007.

Now, about seven months after the storms, 194 houses are under construction or have been completed in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas. And building in earnest has only just begun.

In New Orleans, three Habitat homes are under construction and building has begun on the Musicians’ Village and Baptist Crossroads projects.

Along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, land acquisition continues to be a challenge. Habitat is working hard to find land and then purchase the best lots for a fair price. We have also been fortunate to have received several land donations. Construction is under way in coastal Mississippi, too. Houses are being built in Gulfport and a new neighborhood in the Bay St. Louis area will begin construction soon.

Habitat for Humanity has committed to working in the area and building as many houses as its resources allow. Long after the media spotlight has faded, Habitat for Humanity will remain hard at work in affected communities, building long-term housing solutions. Our donors, corporate partners and volunteers have made our progress possible and will be critical to our continued efforts.

Thank you for your generosity and for helping Habitat rebuild homes and hope in the communities affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. It is our intent to inform you of our progress and share with you our successes as we work to rebuild the Gulf Coast.

—Ken Meinert, Senior Vice President, Operation Home Delivery