FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (8/05)
Contact: Lynn Stewart, Centenary News Service, 318-869-5120

Church Relations Advisory About Needs of Hurricane Katrina Evacuees from Dillard University

The following is the text of an advisory sent by Mimi McDowell, Director of Church Relations at Centenary College, to Shreveport District churches on Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2005.

"Thank you for your overwhelming response and generous donations of pillows, blankets, clothing and toiletries for the Dillard students being housed at Centenary College. We have more than enough of these items to handle all of their needs. When the need was announced, the Body of Christ responded.

"Since it looks like they will not be able to return to Dillard anytime soon, the greatest need now is for monetary donations to help arrange travel home for many students from other areas. Centenary College has set up a special fund to assist Dillard with these arrangements. Donations can be dropped off at the Gold Dome Athletic Office (upstairs). Checks should be made out to Centenary College with a memo line indicating it is for Dillard students.

"We will also be identifying those students, faculty and staff that are from the New Orleans area or are otherwise unable to return home. Several are international students or faculty. We will be helping to coordinate more long-term temporary housing for them in this area.

"If you know of someone who is willing and able to house some evacuees for an extended period, please contact me. Please continue to remember these students, faculty and staff in your prayers. Many are unable to reach loved ones left behind or to find out any information about their homes. Understandably, this is a very emotional time for them."

Mimi McDowell
Director of Church Relations
Centenary College

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