Missouri helps victims of Hurricane Katrina

Over the past week, we have all watched the tremendous devastation in the states hit by Hurricane Katrina.

The state of Missouri, civic and charitable groups and individuals are pitching in to help Katrina's victims.

What has been done so far, what is on going, and what still needs to be done?

Governor Blunt activated the Missouri National Guard and by last Sunday, more than 1000 soldiers and airmen were on the ground performing security missions in the affected areas while hundreds of Missouri organizations and companies have offered or delivered resources for disaster relief.

In the weeks to come, Missouri may deploy additional personnel to support medical and transport missions.

Governor Blunt dispatched members of the Missouri Department of Conservation and Missouri Water Patrol to Louisiana to assist with search and rescue efforts.

In the 125th District, virtually everyone is participating in some manner of relief effort. Butler, Mo., has mounted an impressive relief drive as has virtually every other community.

After brief conversations with Nevada, Mo., leadership, I contacted the Missouri Adjutant General's office regarding the use of Camp Clark, southeast of Nevada as temporary family housing for Katrina's victims.

That proposal is under consideration and I commend the leadership and the people of Vernon County and Nevada for their generosity and willingness to help.

School districts all over the state have been asked to absorb students from the south and some school districts in Southeast Missouri already have done just that. I have written the Missouri State High School Association, asking them to ease their restrictions on eligibility transfer so student-athletes may participate in Missouri interscholastic activities. I am awaiting their response.

Governor Blunt directed Missouri Adjutant General Sidwell to be Missouri's Hurricane Relief Coordinator. General Sidwell will direct and work closely with the State Emergency Management Agency so that a coordinated and effective effort may be carried out.

Any group or individuals who have offers of assistance are asked to contact the Adjutant General's Emergency Operations Center at (573) 638-9803, 9804 or 9805.

With a spirit of generosity, hard work and lots of prayer, our nation will survive the disaster.

Contact Rep. Barney Fisher's capitol office at (800) 382-4123 or (573) 751-5388 or write to Rep. Barney Fisher, State Capitol, Room 201B, Jefferson City, MO 65101.