In Louisiana, we know the importance of helping one another in times of disaster.
It is IMPORTANT that you do not self deploy!
Seeing images of disaster may compel you to head to the impacted area. Don’t underestimate the complexity of working in a disaster area. Until a need has been identified and the local community impacted has requested support, volunteers should not enter.
- Be sure to connect with a volunteer organization before coming to the disaster area.
- Wait until it is safe to travel to volunteer sites and opportunities have been identified.
- Once assigned a position, make sure you have been given an assignment and are wearing proper safety gear for the task.
Be patient.
Recovery lasts a lot longer than the media attention. There will be volunteer needs for many months, often years, after the disaster. Your help will especially be needed when the community enters the long-term recovery period.