Dear Friends & Supporters,
To all volunteers and sponsors who have offered their time and support in the wake of Hurricane Gustav, Thank You! We are fortunate in that damage from the storm, while significant, was not catastrophic. Recovery from Hurricane Gustav will be a coast wide effort, demanding collaboration from the entire region and
volunteers from across the U.S. We, along with our sister affiliates across the coast, are preparing to face the challenges of rebuilding.

Immediately following the storm, HFHMGC began to assess the damage to all existing homes and properties that are currently under construction.

 A preliminary assessment indicates:
• No HFHMGC properties appear to have received major damage
• Some homes received minor exterior damage, such as damage to siding
• 2008 Carter Project homes received no water/wind damage. It appears that water came one to two feet up on some foundations. However, due to elevation, the structures themselves remained dry.
• In Gulfport, homes rehabbed during the Carter Project appear to be without damage, but further assessment is needed. We are currently working with homeowners to gain access to the properties for closer observation.

We recognize that full recovery depends on your help. However, it is first necessary to ensure the safe return of all staff and homeowners to the area. We are currently working to gain a clear understanding of the damage that was incurred. Once we conduct a thorough assessment, we will allocate volunteers to the areas of highest need. Until then, we encourage all volunteers to pray for those affected and offer whatever assistance you can. We look forward to seeing you on the coast again very soon.

For information on volunteering with HFHMGC, please visit http://hfhmgc.cmiregistration.com/ or call our Volunteer Services department at (228) 374.4946 x. 310. For latest updates or to donate, visit www.hfhmgc.org.

For photos of Hurricane Gustav, as well as more information about how the MS Gulf Coast was affected by the storm please visit:
www.habitat.org
www.sunherald.com
www.wlox.com
http://www.biloxi.ms.us/
http://www.ci.gulfport.ms.us/
http://www.co.jackson.ms.us/