In response to the Hurricane Katrina disaster in August 2005, IRD both immediately responded to emergency needs and began implementation of community development programs targeting the most vulnerable populations along the Gulf Coast. The long-term goal in working with these devastated communities is to “build back better” – to improve conditions for residents beyond the level that existed before the hurricane.

Delivering Relief Supplies
IRD worked with partner organizations to arrange the delivery and distribution of relief supplies to affected communities, delivering more than $850,000 worth of relief supplies to Mississippi and Louisiana specifically to those most in need. A full response team was on the scene within three days, and emergency deliveries started within five days, getting help to those who needed it quickly.

Planning for the Future
IRD also worked with city officials and local community agencies to develop strategies to best assist the poorest and most marginalized populations displaced by the hurricane, collaborating with the Gulf Coast Interfaith Disaster Task Force, Gulf Coast Women’s Center for Nonviolence, Inc., Mental Health Association, Catholic Social Services of the Biloxi Diocese, Open Doors Coalition, MS Lutheran Disaster Response, UMCOR, and the Gulf Coast Community Action Agency, among others. IRD gained the experience in developing strategy for both immediate relief and implementing long-term economic development programs in response to the December 2004 tsunami that struck Southeast Asia.

Long-Term Community Development
On Nov. 21, 2005 IRD opened the Gulf Coast Community Services Center located in Gulfport, MS. The Center helps address the human needs of the survivors in Gulfport through ongoing case management and community mobilization efforts by providing free legal assistance, financial management advice, and counseling; a full-time staff, together with volunteer professionals from the community, provide these services.

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