Former Seattle resident Barney Huggins, who now resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, called in to the Z-Twins’ (1420 KRIZ & 1620 KYIZ) very popular “Community Potpourri Show” Tuesday morning with another update on the flood in Baton Rouge. Huggins requested more prayers for all the victims as they slowly recover from the disastrous flood. In addition, he stated that many had lost everything, but clothing is one of their greatest needs.
As a result of this request for clothing, the greater Seattle-Tacoma churches, Chris Bennett Enterprises Charities (CBEC) along with The Seattle Medium Newspaper Group and Z-Twins radio stations are gearing up to assist victims in Baton Rouge. Many individuals in the Seattle area are heart broken by this disaster, as many of them have family and extended families that leave in the flooded region.
According to Chris H. Bennett, Chairman of The Seattle Medium Newspaper Group and Kris Bennett Broadcasting, tentative plans are to have local churches, organizations, businesses and individuals fill at least five 53-foot trailers with clothing and transport them Baton Rouge. Once these transports arrive in Baton Rouge, local ministries and community leaders will distribute the items directly to victims and their families. Despite the fact that FEMA and other state relief organizations are providing help, it has been our community’s tradition to always be of service to people in need.
According to reports, many national relief resources cannot meet the demand for assistance. The Red Cross stated it had raised $7.8 million for the flood victims, however, it need $30 million. President Obama met with surviving victims on Tuesday, touring a Baton Rouge neighborhood destroyed and filled with flood-damaged debris and rubble.
“Sometimes when these kinds of things happen, it can seem like too much to bear. But what I want the people of Louisiana to know is you’re not alone…,” said President Obama walking through destroyed homes while shaking hands with residents during a press conference Tuesday afternoon.
In addition to state and local aid, President Obama encouraged Americans to take the Red Cross up on their request for more pledges. Obama signed a federal disaster declaration over a week ago, freeing up $120 million in aid.
“With all this being said and done, locally, it is imperative that we reach out to these Baton Rouge flood victims until the real relief kicks in,” said Bennett. “Many organizations and individuals are motivated to lend their support.”
As of press time, the Kent Black Action Commission (KABC), Pastor Pat Wright, Sister Elma Horton, Nate Miles, Rev. Ruth and Deacon John Saunders and others had already pledged their support for the victims in Baton Rouge. One caller on Community Potpourri pledged $1,000.00 and urged local ministries to match his gift.
To donate, help, volunteer or for more information on the relief effort, contact Chris H. Bennett at (206) 323-3070 ext. 109
