Houses Of Worship Are The Frontline Of Disaster Relief

As in any major disaster, houses of worship are stepping up as the frontline in the Katrina disaster relief effort. Many organizations such as the Salvation Army and Feed The Children are well known for being the fastest to put boots on the ground when disaster strikes.

Other notable disaster responders include Catholic Charities USA, Samaritan's Purse, the organization run by Billy Graham's son, Franklin. Lutheran World Relief, United Jewish Communities, Nation Of Islam and other religious organizations. Lakewood Church, the single largest church in America are major partners with Feed The Children, and will raise significant food at upcoming events and from members.

The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-Day Saints has reported to be in process of providing relief to some of the hardest hit victims of the disaster. And a number of Baptist organizations can be counted on to provide relief efforts. Pat Robertson's Operation Blessing can be counted on for assistance to storm victims as well.

The Jehovah's Wittnesses find an unique way of providing disaster relief. From the 2004 hurricane that hit part of Florida, Jehovah's Witness volunteers pledged to rebuild 1,700 homes, and 700 have been completed so far. Many Jehovah's Witnesses are skilled at construction skills and are known to build their own houses of worship. Often they can assemble a major church building over two weekends.

There are many other Christian, Jewish and Islamic organizations that are also involved in disaster aid. New Orleans is 67% Black, and 28% live in poverty. Many are complete refugees who have no savings in the bank or ability to help themselves. Bodies are found floating in the streets of New Orleans. Some elderly persons died at the refugee center. One elderly woman in a wheelchair died, and her wheelchair was simply rolled towards a wall, and a sheet placed over her head. One reporter noted this poor woman was probably someone's mother or grandmother. The need is great, and houses of worship are responding.