GU HERE Hurricane Relief

Alternative Spring Break 2008: March 1-March 8

Who?

20 Georgetown student volunteers in conjunction with faculty volunteers.

What?

GU HERE is returning to the Gulf region this spring break to continue hurricane relief efforts.  Over two years have passed since Hurricane Katrina devastated the area, but people are still living in FEMA trailers.  Volunteers will work closely with relief agencies in the area to repair houses and do other basic construction work.  In addition, volunteers will have chances during the evening to experience the culture of the region and learn about the surrounding areas.  Last year, GU HERE volunteers had the opportunity to visit a drag race and enjoy a dinner at a local town restaurant with the families whom we helped.  To a large extent, the break will be similar to last year's relief trip to Pass Christian, Mississippi.

We will be working one week with Catholic Social Services Disaster Recovery Office in Gulfport, MS, which is located in the Gulf Coast.  Gulfport is in an area that experienced great destruction from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita but has not received the attention that more widely known areas have. Volunteers will work during the day, helping the community members clean out debris, rebuild homes and various other tasks in support of the Catholic Social Services Disaster Recovery Office. Evenings will include opportunities to meet the Gulfport community members and engage in the region's culture.

Where?

We will be working in the Gulfport, MS region.  Housing will be provided by Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos Parish in Biloxi, MS, near Gulfport.

When?

We will leave Georgetown University on Saturday morning, March 1st, stay overnight in a Tennessee motel, and arrive in Pass Christian, MS by Sunday evening.  Volunteers will leave the Gulfport, MS area on Friday, March 7th, stay overnight at a motel, and arrive at Georgetown University on Saturday, March 8th.

How?

We will be traveling in rental vans. All student participants will be expected to contribute $180.00 towards the cost of the trip. This fee covers all food, lodging and transportation for the week.

Thank you for your interest in this trip. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Greg Baltz, JR Fujimoto, or Suzanne O'Hara.