As of this morning, more than 200 guests from the hurricane and flood ravaged Gulf Coast continue to call the D.C. Armory home. Those using the Armory as their local base of operations have received access to medical and dental care, employment services, information regarding temporary and permanent housing, and emergency cash assistance.

On Friday, September 2, 2005, the District of Columbia sent 10 buses filled with food, water, and medical supplies to the Gulf Coast expecting to ferry as many as 400 people back to Washington. A volunteer staff of doctors, mental health professionals, social workers, and law enforcement officers performed extraordinary work and distributed materials at evacuation centers throughout the devastated region.

While on this mission, almost 300 affected residents were brought to the District via airplanes that took off while the buses were en route.

"Whether they came by bus, boat, plane or train, I'm just happy our guests have a dry place to rest and contemplate what's next, " D.C. Councilmember David Catania said of the newcomers.

Various government and non-government agencies set up the D.C. Armory to offer "one-stop shopping" for health care, employment services, and government benefits.

Councilmember Catania praised employees and volunteers for, "coupling competence with compassion" and asked for patience, "as we meet the immediate needs of our guests while wading through generous offers of assistance."

Yesterday, Councilmember Catania oversaw the distribution of 241 wallets to those housed at the D.C. Armory and many others who have found somewhere else to stay. In each of the wallets, guests found a $100 Metro card and $50 cash, funded by the District government and private donations.

Concerned residents may contact the District with further offers of assistance through its website (www.dc.gov) or by calling 202-727-1000. The American Red Cross may be reached by calling 1-800-HELP-NOW (1-800-435-7669).