Pearlington Update

Heres another update from Angela at the Pearlington Project. I was not aware that FEMA was cutting off trailer occupancy 18 months after the event - in February 2007. I'm sure that's an issue we will hear more about in the future. Watch out for the Pearlington Update on CNN on August 29th and thanks to Soledad O'Brien for her committment to following the progress in Pearlington.

Dear Friends,

For the past year, so many of you have journeyed with me to the tiny, rural hamlet of Pearlington, Mississippi. Together, we have witnessed the abject suffering of our own people forgotten by those with the power to change their plight. And, so, together we have done what we could do. While many of you could not travel to Pearlington with me, you made certain that when I made the trip, I was fully supplied with food, clothing, and gift cards. There are not words strong enough to convey the deep gratitude of the people of Pearlington for the tangible evidence of your caring. And, there are not words strong enough to convey my deep gratitude for your thoughts and prayers. I am returning to be with the people of Pearlington on the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. And, thankfully, once again CNN is returning with me. While the media attention has brought relief workers to the area, in the absence of a plan, there are gaping holes relative to who-gets-what. Some have houses now; but, most still do not. There are those whose ruined houses have yet to be demolished, let alone removed. And, at the end of February 2007, a mere 6 months from now, FEMA will come to reclaim the only shelter these people have. For, according to their rules, one can only occupy a FEMA trailer for 18 months , a time period that begins not on the day you actually take-up occupancy in the trailer, but on the day of the disaster. So, even though the vast majority of citizens in Pearlington slept on the ground in soggy tents for some 6 months after Hurricane Katrina, according to the rules of FEMA, occupancy started on August 29, 2006. The names and faces you have come to know over this past year, Mamma Sams; Toby, Yvette, Brittany, and Michael; Denise, Lisa, Destin, Darrien, and Carrie; Mr. Ike a 2-war veteran; and so many others are facing yet another devastating loss if we do not act. And, that is why I have made the decision to take the work of The Pearlington Project to the next level. I have been invited to join Soledad O'Brien during her live coverage of the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina on August 29th. On her show, American Morning and following the airing of the next Pearlington segment, I will announce the next steps for The Pearlington Project and the new ways in which any citizen can be involved. While American Morning normally airs from 6:00 to 10:00 AM EST, there may be an extended edition on the 29th. Of course, the show's programming is dependent upon news events; but, as of now, the next Pearlington segment followed by a live interview is planned. When I know a timeframe for the segment, I will send another email. (If anyone would like to be removed from this email list, please let me know and I will do so.) I hope you will watch CNN on the morning of the 29th. While so much of this past year has been a journey of justice for the forgotten people of Pearlington, it has also been one of hope, a hope that I can not let go until, together, we have truly done all we can to restore dignity and community to those who deserve no less. Continuing in Peace and Justice, Angela J. Cole, MPH, RN