The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) International continues to respond to the needs of survivors of Hurricane Katrina, pledging US$1 million in relief aid to be implemented through its local partners.

Adventist Community Services (ACS), one of ADRA’s primary implementing partners, is currently distributing blankets, clothing, and personal kits to thousands of people left homeless by Katrina. It has also opened warehouses in Mississippi. Louisiana, Tennessee, and Alabama, benefiting more than 125,000 people. ACS has also mobilized three feeding programs in Mississippi and Louisiana that provide more than 30,000 meals a day.

ADRA is also providing US$100,000 worth of debit cards that will be distributed to entities and organizations involved in disaster management in the affected areas. “The cards will only be distributed to those that have been displaced. They can be used for food, hygiene items, emergency expenses, etc. They can also be used to facilitate shelter for the affected people,” commented Mario Ochoa, executive vice president of ADRA International.

On September 12, ADRA also sent two trucks to Mississippi and Louisiana stocked with emergency supplies for the hurricane survivors.

“100 percent of the donations that we receive specifically for Hurricane Katrina relief is being used to provide aid to the thousands whose lives have been devastated by Katrina,” stated Ochoa.

“ADRA continues to be an active participant in the relief efforts in the Gulf Coast through our partners, and is working to assist people as they begin to rebuild their lives,” said Charles Sandefur, president of ADRA International.

To expedite assistance to victims of Hurricane Katrina, ADRA is only accepting monetary donations. Additional information about ADRA and the online donation system can be found at www.adra.org

ADRA is present in 125 countries, providing community development and disaster relief without regard to political or religious association, age, or ethnicity.