I am so reluctant to tell you this. For sure, I've imposed on you all with my "war correspondent" view. Pass on by if you've heard enough from me. Actually, I've heard enough from me. Our DD2 is a Katrina victim. Katrina took her and her precious DH's clothes, food, job and left them with a home with 3 feet of Heaven only knows what sliming everything. Today, the insurance man said they would coat the ceiling with Kiltz and put some shingles on the roof. (Some kind of fine-print about rising water, rushing water, surges of water and county sewage system failures.) Of course, her daddy and I can and are grateful to be able to take care of anything they need. Well, except for the tears and frustration . . . they have their lives and health and are hard working. They will survive. Since I have the time, I thought to try to get her some help from that given to the victims. The Red Cross said to apply online, a ridiculous concept for folks that don't have a phone and whose computer is full of mud. But, I could - so I did. They gave her a case number. They sent an automated reply with a l-800 number. I called it, dying of old age and hearing loss from horrible loud music and from the relentless messages that my call was important. I held on, read the zip code directory, rotated the tires and defrosted the freezer while I waited for a human. Got a human finally. He told me he only represented medical assistance. To call another number. That the Red Cross was busy in Houston and would get to us when they could. That the homeless unemployed were given priority. He didn't mention that 4,000 of those were sexual predators from Louisiana. I just know that you have contributed to the Red Cross believing that your money would go to those who have lost so much. We will take good care of DD2 and her precious husband and naughty Yorkie. But (!) what about those who don't have family or friends or neighbors or churches to help them stand back up? The next phone number the Red Cross told her to call is busy, always busy. I don't even get a recording about how important my call is or "Would I like to make a donation ?". But . . . I too, am relentless. I will dial that @#$! phone number until. Well, you know. You have done all you could. I need to do something. I hope I won't embarass you all too badly. . . and know you'll understand. Polly
- posted
18 years ago