Katrina Story Update
September 5, 2006
Lori Wilson, Director of Rescue Ranch, has made many cyber friends who should be recognized in their efforts to get supplies donated and shipped. Connie, Lauren, and Pam, were Lori’s “Three Amigos”. Their emails were the only means of briefing, de-briefing and de-compressing for Lori. You have no idea how your support was a beacon of light during a tumultuous time in Lori’s life. Thank you.
Lori and her family’s home were destroyed in the path of Katrina. They found this out when returning with a SART (State Animal Response Team) pass. Upon realizing this they determined not to give up on their community. Lori’s pastor, Jim Woodward, with the Crossroads Ministry came walking down the street asking “How bad is it?”
Lori told him, “I can’t invite you in for a cup of coffee. The place is a wreck.”
They both chuckled. Her five year old daughter reflected that they had a sky light. Pastor Jim offered Lori and her family refuge in the church after finding out that they’d spent the night in the truck.
Realizing the Plaquemines Parish needed knowledgeable livestock assistance, Lori went to the Parish President, Bennie Rouselle, and the Sheriff Jiff Hingle, to assist in the livestock recovery. Lori was given a letter to stay by the Parish President and a special commission for livestock recovery with the Sheriff’s Office.
Rescue Ranch then started to network with other agencies and groups to bring in supplies. Pastor Jim also assisted in housing and feeding of the wranglers. We are very grateful for his hospitality.
Three weeks later Associate Director, Angela Gallagher, was finally able to make contact with Lori. When Angela realized the plight of Lori and her family being homeless. She insisted Lori move into her empty home and make use of the barn for the injured horses.
Finally a few days before Christmas they received their FEMA trailer/camper making it feasible to move back to their home site. On Christmas Eve, Lori received a phone call from Kay with United Animal Nations (photo of the team) to go shopping for a 250 truck, four horse trailer and tractor. Lori’s response was “that would be nice but we don’t have the money.”
Kay’s response was, “Are you sitting down?”
Lori said, “I can if I need to.”
Kay then told her that United Animal Nations was awarding Rescue Ranch a grant for the purchase of the equipment so greatly needed. These purchases replaced two trucks and an “over-worked” trailer. Thanks, again, United Animal Nations for your gracious gift.
We also wish to thank ASPCA, Best Friends, Humane Society of Louisiana, National Guard Volunteers, Noah’s Wish, Vet Students from Ontario, Canada and numerous un-named volunteers. Lori was honored to recieved a "Hurricane Hero Award" from the Human Society of Louisiana.
Rescue Ranch is reinstating programs reaching the youth of the community. The youth have had many experiences since Katrina. We, here at Rescue Ranch want to help them to learn respect for all creatures...even pigs.
It has been a long and exhausting year for Rescue Ranch. Rebuilding and facilitating for the victims of such devastation and being victims ourselves has been a trial and test of character for all of Louisiana. It has been a tremendous struggle but not a burden. Rescue Ranch intends to be in full support of the children and animal of the community.
Thanks again for your continued support.