Late last August we were all shocked by the conditions in New Orleans and along the Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina. We watched as New Orleans, a landmark cultural icon in its own right, became deluged after a break in its protective levees. We watched as hundreds of New Orleans residents waited on the roofs of their homes for rescue. We watched as thousands of people from New Orleans to Biloxi to Mobile lost their homes and businesses. Two weeks later, Hurricane Rita struck western Louisiana and eastern Texas, causing more damage to an already hard-hit region.
 
Now, as the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina is upon us, the IBEW and NECA remain committed to helping New Orleans and the Gulf Coast rebuild. These workers and contractors are not simply restoring power; they are helping survivors gain security and normalcy. 
 
Almost immediately after Katrina, IBEW leaders and members as well as NECA members and leadership began offering support to the region, reaching out to IBEW and NECA members affected by the storm and joining relief efforts. The IBEW started a relief fund that distributed more than $2 million to about 4,000 active and retired IBEW members who lost homes and jobs due to Katrina. NECA also started a relief fund immediately following the storm; by November of 2005, NECA had distributed over $245,000 to members affected by the storm. NECA also set up an online bulletin board to match contractors in need of supplies to other contractors willing to donate excess materials. 
 
When rebuilding began, the IBEW and NECA assisted in the effort. IBEW workers helped wire FEMA trailers. Some of these same workers were also living in FEMA trailers, having lost homes as well. Electrical contractors in the Gulf region faced similar difficulties as they dealt with personal losses while responding to the emergencies of other storm victims. Despite these challenges, IBEW and NECA workmanship has helped restore electrical power throughout the region. Help is still needed and the IBEW and NECA will continue to help New Orleans and the Gulf Coast overcome the disaster wrought by Hurricane Katrina.
 
To learn more about IBEW work in Katrina-affected areas, please visit IBEW Hour Power at www.ibewhourpower.com to view video footage featuring IBEW rebuilding projects.