New Orleans Title I

This blog was created to share information regarding the effects of Katrina on the Ryan White Title I: New Orleans EMA as we get it. If you have information regarding our clients or questions please post it. This is not much, but a start in rebuilding our lives and our EMA.

Wednesday, October 19, 2005

HIV services in LOUISIANA

HIV Services
---HAART/CDAP Program
For case management or medical services, medications and transportation assistance, along with toiletries bag, a wal-mart gift card in the amount of $25 (several if needed for additional family members) and fast-food coupons for quick immediate meals: (225) 927-1269 or a toll free number of (888) 647-1269;

For emergencies only : (225) 276-8661, (225) 266-1046 or (225) 266-1030

Additional numbers are:
Family Service (225) 927-9810
Volunteers of America (225) 922-3900
Metro Health Education (225) 338-9333

Statewide HIV hotline: 1-800-99AIDS9 (1-800-992-4379).
(1-800-992-4379).

Medication:
Avita is planning to open at their old location on Monday the 19th. For more information, call 800-299-0547.

General Services


Medicaid

Applications are available at Medicaid offices, on the Medicaid Web site, www.medicaid.dhh.louisiana.gov or by calling the Medicaid General Hotline, 1-888-342-6207.

Health Department Offers Tips for Home Mold Removal:
http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov/news.asp?ID=145&Detail=715



Housing:
---Operation Share Your Home (Help to match up people who need temporary housing with those who can offer the space.)
12232 Industriplex Blvd. Suite 1
Baton Rouge, LA 70809
Phone: 888-827-2525 or 225-765-4568
http://www.shareyourhome.org/

---Hurricane Housing: http://www.hurricanehousing.org/

---The Times Picayune online: http://www.nola.com/

Monday, September 19, 2005

Organizations that are accepting monetary donations

Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund
www.bushclintonkatrinafund.org
American Red Cross: 800-HELP NOW (435-7669)
Salvation Army: 800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769) or 800-253-1868
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/hurricane.asp
M.S. Society - Louisiana Chapter: 504-832-4013 or 800-346-7323
Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, Donate Online at
www.houstonjewish.org/index.asp
America's Second Harvest: 800-344-8070
Adventist Community Services: 800-381-7171
Catholic Charities, USA: 703-549-1390
Christian Disaster Response: 941-956-5183 or 941-551-9554
Christian Reformed World Relief Committee: 800-848-5818
Church World Service: 800-297-1516
Convoy of Hope: 417-823-8998
Lutheran Disaster Response: 800-638-3522
Nazarene Disaster Response: 888-256-5886
Operation Blessing: 800-436-6348
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance: 800-872-3283
Southern Baptist Convention Disaster Relief: 800-462-8657, ext. 6440
United Methodist Committee on Relief: 800-554-8583
· Coast Guard Asks For Donations For Rescuers
The U.S. Coast Guard in Houston is asking for donations to help about 50 workers in New Orleans on rescue efforts who are running out of basic supplies. Donations can be dropped off at the Coast Guard office at Ellington Field.
Items in need include:
T-shirts, underwear
Toilet paper, wipes
Soap
First Aid kits, bug spray, foot powder
Bottled water, sports drinks, coffee
Power bars, granola bars, cups of dry soup
Sleeping bags and pillows
D and AA batteries

Texas Resources by City

HOUSTON
Major Shelter Resources:
Astrodome/Reliant Stadium Complex
George R Brown Convention Center

Transportation for Katrina & Rita Evacuees to Anywhere in the U.S.

The State of Texas is providing one-way AIRLINE, BUS, or TRAIN TICKETS for Katrina or Rita evacuees who need transportation. These tickets are good for anywhere in the continental 48 states. Go to the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) At 6059 South Loop East – I-610 exit 34A I-610 and South Wayside

Ask for the TEXAS TRAVEL DESK

Transportation is not available at this time to Beaumont or Port Arthur, but we can put you on a waiting list.

If you have questions, call (713) 845-3711. We cannot book your ticket by phone.
You will need a photo ID and your FEMA number at time of booking.

ACT NOW IF YOU ARE INTERESTED



Secondary Shelter Locations:
Baytown Community Center, 2407 Market Street, Baytown
Fairmont Park Baptist Church, 10401 Belfast, La Porte
First Baptist Church, 1229 Avenue J, Huntsville
First Baptist Church, 906 Avenue A, Katy
First United Methodist Church, 4308 W. Dallas, Conroe
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, 18220 Upper Bay Road-Nassau Bay, Houston
Memorial Baptist Church, 600 W. Sterling, Baytown
Mont Belvieu Senior Center, 11607 Eagle Drive, Mont Belvieu
Moody Methodist Church, 2803 53rd Street, Galveston
New Life Central, 2104 Underwood, La Porte
Spring Tabernacle, 3034 F.M. 2920, Spring
St. Mary's Catholic Church, 701 Church St., Brenham
St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, 6005 N, Wayside Drive, Houston
The Houston Food Bank, 3811 Eastex Freeway, 713-223-3700, is in need of the following items to help Katrina victims. To volunteer at the Food Bank, call 713-547-8609 or 713-547-8657.
Houston Humane Society To Shelter Evacuees' Pets: 713-433-6421
Evacuees at the Astrodome can receive mail at this address: Evacuee's Name, General Delivery, Houston, TX 77230. Make sure to include the evacuee's name.
Displaced businesses seeking office space
http://www.houstondowntown.com/

Houston: Companies, Organizations Accepting Donated Items
Note: Many religious organizations are holding their own collection and/or donation drives. Please check with a church, synagogue or facility near you.
· Children Caring For Children Drive: Donate new school supplies, backpacks, tennis shoes and T-shirts to any local fire station to be given to evacuees attending school.
· Toys R Us, Kirby at OST
· First Methodist Church, (832) 668-1800: Downtown Campus (1320 Main Street at Clay); Westchase Campus (Westpark at Sam Houston Tollway)
· Houston Intown Chamber of Commerce, 3015 Richmond Ave., 77098, 713-524-8000
· Holiday Inn Select, 2712 Southwest Freeway, 77098, 713-523-8448
· Four Points By Sheraton, 2828 Southwest Freeway, 77098, 713-942-2111
· Society of St. Vincent de Paul, 2403 Holcombe Blvd., 713-741-8234
· Baytown Junior High, 7707 Bayway Drive, 281-420-4560
· Sugar Creek Baptist Church, 13213 Southwest Freeway, Sugar Land, 281-242-2858
· Park at Voss Apartments, 2424 S. Voss Road (at Westheimer), 713-268-3000
· Alvin Community College, 3110 Mustang Road, Alvin, 77511
· Houston Humane Society, 14700 Almeda Road, 713-433-6421
· Houston-Area Society For The Prevention Of Cruelty To Animals, 900 Portway Drive
· West University Baptist Church, 6218 Auden Street, 713-668-2319
· Crosspoint Church, 4601 Bellaire Blvd.
· Bumbera's Performance Associates, 630 Highway 6 South, 77079, 281-493-9300
· Wesley Gardens Apartments, 8700 Gustine Lane, 77031, 713-270-5555
· Julia C. Hester House, 2020 Solo, 77020, 713-672-2573
· Westlake Fire Department, 281-960-5014
· Church of Christ, 1704 Weber, 713-864-5667
· Lansdowne-Moody, 713-672-8366, is collecting food and clothing at the four locations below:
8445 East Freeway, 77029
11810 S. Sam Houston Parkway West, 77031
1600 FM 528, Webster, 77598
23738 Hempstead Highway, Cypress, 77429
· Houston-area YMCAs and KSBJ FM are collecting gift cards to help victims pay for gas, food and other items.
· Impact Houston Church of Christ, 1704 Weber, 832-641-5900
· Consignor's Club, 22704 Loop 494 Ste D, Humble, 77339, 281-359-9090

DALLAS
Dallas Reunion Arena: 777 Sprots St. Dallas, Texas 75207, 214-939-2770
City of Dallas Emergency Management: 214-670-4275
Food Stamps: 800-500-4266
Mental Health Hotline: 24-7 free counseling from United Health Care: 866-615-8700
Two of Parkland’s Homeless Outreach Medical Services vans are stationed at Reunion Arena from 8am-8pm daily through Sept. 9
Dallas Independent School District Hurricane hotline: 972-925-5555. Parents may enroll with or without documentation.
Social Security Office in Dallas: 9am-4pm: 800-772-1213
DART is providing local bus and rail passes to those staying at the Reunion Arena shelter. The passes are good for two weeks with a possible two-week extension. 214-979-1111
WWLTV’s “Search for Someone,” “I’m OK,” and other forums: www.wwltv.com/forums/
Dallas Hurricane Aid:
http://www.dallashurricaneaid.org/

SAN ANTONIO
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul will feed evacuees in their dining room located at 928 W. Commerce St. The days and times are as follows: Monday through Saturday, breakfast: 7 a.m., lunch: 12:30 p.m., dinner: 4:45 p.m. Sunday breakfast: 7:30 a.m., dinner: 4 p.m. The dining room will be open for one hour for each meal.
Local Shelters:
San Antonio Metropolitan Ministry (SAMM): 210-225-3582
318 W. Houston Street, Suite 200, San Antonio 78205-2420
samm@samm.org
www.samm.org

Summary of Services:
Emergency shelter: 910 West Commerce,210-224-5838
Transitional family shelter: 212 North Alamo Street, 210-226-3923
Transitional housing program for families: 212 North Alamo Street, 210-226-3923
San Antonio Rescue Mission
907 E. Quincy, San Antonio 78215, 210-222-9736
The San Antonio AIDS Foundation is offering its services to evacuees with HIV/AIDS. The foundation is at 818 E. Grayson, 210-225-4715
Red Cross: San Antonio Chapter: 3642 E. Houston St., San Antonio 78219.
210-224-5151
infosatx@usa.redcross.org
http://www.saredcross.org/

HUNTSVILLE
Local Shelters:
· Good Shepherd Mission (singles) 936-291-8156, 1005 Avenue F, Huntsville
http://www.walkercountyonline.com/org/mission/disaster/GSM
· First Baptist Church 936-291-3441, 1229 Avenue J, Huntsville
http://www.walkercountyonline.com/org/mission/disaster/FBC_FLC (150 people /capacity 400)
· SAAFE House in Huntsville (Alternate shelter for single women and women with children) 936-291-3369.
· Huntsville State Park (Park and camping fees waived for evacuees). Must have camping gear.

People and Organizations coordinating opening private homes to evacuees:
· Lee McCollam (Trinity/Riverside) 936-661-7867
· The University Hotel is housing 12 families who have evacuated from areas hit by Hurricane Katrina, and another six families are expected to arrive this evening. The hotel staff is preparing a detailed list of items that will be immediately useful for these individuals, and that list will be available later this afternoon. For now, they are asking for bottled water and snacks, which can be taken to the front desk of the hotel, or placed in the Bluebonnet Room adjacent to the hotel lobby. http://www.shsu.edu/~pin_www/
· Meals in Motels: The Ministerial Alliance is organizing meals for evacuees staying at motels: Ken Jack of the Ministerial Alliance: 936-295-2440 or Paula Anglemeyer at La Quinta Inn: 936-295-6454
· Volunteers for First Baptist Church call the volunteer coordinator before coming, Janet at 936-291-1165
http://www.fbchuntsville.org/
· Volunteers for Family Faith Church, either call ahead or show up at the church 2407 Sam Houston Avenue. 936-291-9458 (FAX 936-294-9203) http://www.familyfaith.ws/
· Huntsville and Walker County: HELP for Katrina evacuees http://www.walkercountyonline.com/org/mission/disaster/index.html
All donations are being directed to the Good Shepherd Mission for sorting and redistribution. Your generosity has been overwhelming, most storage areas are currently full.


AUSTIN
· Austin Convention Center, 500 E. Cesar Chavez St. The Austin Convention Center is the first point of contact for evacuees. Enter on East side of the Convention Center on Red River St. To volunteer, do not show up at the Shelters, instead go to: Red Cross office at 2218 Pershing Drive.
The Salvation Army is requesting personal hygiene items for men, women and children, backpacks and food items that do not require refrigeration, heating or a can opener. Also needed: baby items (such as formula and diapers), insect repellent, flashlights with batteries, work and/or plastic gloves, and new clothing. Items can be dropped off at the downtown facility at 510 E. Eighth St., which is open from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily or at the facility at 6510 S. Congress Ave. facility from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Used clothing should be taken to any of the Salvation Army family stores in Austin.
http://www.salvationarmyaustin.org/
· Goodwill Industries of Central Texas is working on a job fair for evacuees staying in Austin. Employers who would like to participate in this job fair can call 512-480-0772. The date of the fair will be announced.
· Catholic Charities of Central Texas, 512-836-1213. Assistance with food, clothes, gasoline, taxi vouchers, lodging.
· Bedding for apartments and rooms outside shelters: Rock Church, 5800 East MLK will distribute bedding to evacuees for use outside of shelters.
· Austin Convention Center evacuees with Pets, contact the Austin Humane Society: http://www.austinspca.com/
· City of Austin Jobs: http://www.cityofaustin.org/jobapp/cityjobs.cfm

How People with Disabilities are Helping
· Drop Off Items for Hurricane Victims at Dillman Agency, 1111 FM 1462 Alvin, TX, 281-331-7414

MORE RESOURCES

Disability Specific Resources
· FEMA, Disaster Help Line or Registration: Every single hurricane survivor with a disability MUST register to be able to receive the full range of federal assistance. Registrants MUST make clear that they have a disability or chronic health care need. 800-621-FEMA or 800-462-9029 or 800-462-7585 TDD/TYY
http://www.fema.gov/about/process/ (For on-line registration)
Basic Disability Information relating to Katrina
http://katrinadisability.info/
· Texas Information and Referral Network. Call 2-1-1 for access to information about health and human services in your community, including health, mental health and substance abuse services. The network is also providing 24/7 information regarding evacuation, sheltering and other general information during the disaster. The official Hurricane Evacuation number is 888-312-4567 (toll free).
· Agency serving individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing - Louisiana:
CSD of Oklahoma
866-845-7445 Voice/TTY (Toll Free)
918-835-7445 Voice/TTY
csdoklahoma@c-s-d.org
http://www.c-s-d.org/ (click on locations, then Oklahoma)
· Agency serving individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing - Florida, Alabama, or Mississippi:
Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Persons
703-352-9056 TTY
703-352-9055 Voice
info@nvrc.org
http://www.nvrc.org/
Texas Department of Aging & Disability Services (DADS) website for Hurricane Katrina:
http://www.dads.state.tx.us/Katrina/index.cfm
· Dialysis Assistance: End Stage Renal Disease Network #14 of Texas, 877-886-4435. Staff can assist in locating a dialysis facility and identifying other resources available for assistance (prescriptions, medical, financial).
· Database of dialysis facilities accepting transient dialysis patients:
http://www.esource.net/
Addressing Transplant Needs in Hurricane-Ravaged Area: http://www.optn.org/news/newsDetail.asp?id=482
· Emergency relief HIV medication assistance for those displaced by Hurricane Katrina: http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/dshstoday/Emergency_Assistance_Info_Release.doc Contact Dwayne R. Haught, M.S.N., R.N., Texas HIV Medication Program 800-255-1090 or 512-533-3000
The Louisiana Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities will handle requests regarding ICF/MRs, waiver supports and services, state funded services, etc. For more information about the OCDD call 866-783-5553 or visit the website at:
http://www.dhh.louisiana.gov/offices/?ID=77
· The San Antonio AIDS Foundation is offering its services to evacuees with HIV/AIDS. The foundation is at 818 E. Grayson. 210-225-4715
Walgreen’s Pharmacies are linked nationally. Evacuees or providers can either check online for the nearest store at
http://www.walgreens.com/
or call 1-800-WALGREENS to get refills for evacuees from Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama now residing in Texas.
· Crisis Counseling. Call the Department of Health and Human Services toll free hotline at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255).
· ILRU’s web page and message board to assist hurricane survivors with disabilities to post resources that you have to offer, i.e. accessible housing, medical supplies, disability equipment, etc., or search for consumers’ needs.
https://txhan.tdh.state.tx.us/Files/Katrina%20Medical%20Forms/www.ilru.org (at the top of the page)
· List of Nursing Home Facilities with Alzheimer’s Units http://www.dads.state.tx.us/Katrina/bulletin.cfm?id=9

National Resources
National Next of Kin Registry: Disaster Victim Registry http://nokr.org/nok/restricted/home.htm
Salvation Army: 800-SAL-ARMY
The Salvation Army's Team Emergency Radio Network has been activated.
http://www.satern.org/
Department of Homeland Security
www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/index.jsp
American Red Cross
http://www.redcross.org/
800-229-8191 or 866-438-4636
For more information call 866-GET-INFO or 713-313-5480
DHS National Emergency Resource Registry (Activated)
https://www.swern.gov/
· Social Security Services
800-772-1213
http://www.socialsecurity.gov/emergency/
· U.S. Postal Service establishes Temporary locations for Social Security Check Distribution for Hurricane Katrina Victims. In addition, efforts are underway to establish a postal presence at the Houston Astrodome for evacuated Louisiana residents.
http://www.socialsecurity.gov/emergency/usps.htm
· USPS Moves to Reconnect People with their Mail
http://www.usps.com/communications/news/press/2005/pr05_070.htm
800-ASK-USPS (800-275-8777)
· Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/katrina/
· First Gov: The Government’s Official web portal http://www.firstgov.gov/Citizen/Topics/PublicSafety/Hurricane_Katrina_Recovery.shtml


Food and Clothing
Texas United Way: Evacuees in need of food stamps should call 713-957-HELP or 800-500-4266
WIC benefits for evacuees: 713-794-9090 or 800-942-3678
Texas WIC Program at 800-942-3678 for local WIC clinic locations. There are some 700 local WIC clinics in Texas.
Grocers and vendors: Information on procedures for redeeming Louisiana WIC vouchers — 800-252-9629 and press "0" to speak to an operator.
The Texas Health & Human Services Commission is helping to identify individuals eligible to receive food stamps and those who need prescription drug support.
http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/HCF/vdp/vdpstart.html (Prescription Support)
Food Stamp benefits: electronic benefits cards from Louisiana can be used at many large retailers such as HEB, Kroger, and Wal-Mart.
· Huntsville: Meals in Motels: The Ministerial Alliance is organizing meals for evacuees staying at motels. Ken Jack of the Ministerial Alliance: 936-295-2440 or Paula Anglemeyer at La Quinta Inn: 936-295-6454

Education

· Five school districts in the Houston area are preparing for an estimated 6,000-8,000 school-aged children that will be at the Astrodome.
The Higher Education Coordinating Board is assisting students with getting enrolled in Texas Colleges and universities. College students displaced by Hurricane Katrina will be eligible for in-state rates at Texas colleges & universities.
Texas Tech University and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center: Evacuees currently enrolled in college in LA. 806-742-0000
http://www.katrina.ttu.edu/
information for Texas Tech University enrollment or dorms 806-742-1480 or 806-742-2542 and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Margret Duran at 806-743-2300).
· Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program - Title VII-B of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, as amended by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 Non-Regulatory Guidance, July 2004
http://www.ed.gov/programs/homeless/guidance.pdf
· U.S. Department of Education Regional offices
http://www.ed.gov/about/contacts/gen/regions.html
· National Association for Education of Homeless Children & Youth
http://www.naehcy.org/
· National Center for Homeless Education (U.S. Department of Education funded)
· http://www.serve.org/nche/
· National Association of State Directors of Special Education, “Homelessness and Students with Disabilities: Educational Rights and Challenges” (Jan. 2004)
http://www.nasdse.org/publications/homelessness_and_SWD.pdf
· State Coordinators for Homeless Education
http://www.serve.org/nche/states/state_resources.php
· The Federally Funded Parent Training and Information Centers and Community Parent Resource Centers are located in each state to provide training and information to parents of infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities and to professionals who work with children.
http://www.taalliance.org/Centers/index.htm#nat
· State Protection and Advocacy Agencies for Persons with Developmental Disabilities, Mental Illness and the Client Assistance Program. The Protection and Advocacy System and Client Assistance Program comprise the nationwide network of congressionally mandated, legally based disability rights agencies.
http://napas.org/aboutus/0507PA_CAP.htm
· Louisiana Dept. of Education
http://www.doe.state.la.us/lde/index.html
· Texas Homeless Education Office
http://www.utdanacenter.org/theo/

Health
Immunization Requirements Relaxed for Students Displaced by Hurricane Katrina: DSHS Immunization Branch, 800-252-9152
· The San Antonio Christian Dental Clinic, 112 Auditorium Circle, is offering its services to evacuees. 210-226-8041
· Centers for Disease Control on Hurricane Katrina:
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/
· Nurses who are available to volunteer should contact Claire Jordan with the Texas’ Nurses Association at 512-452-0645.
http://www.texasnurses.org/
· Physicians and medical personnel who are available to volunteer should contact Gayle Harris-Love at the Texas Medical Association at 512-370-1670 or by e-mail at
gayle.love@texmed.org
· Additional information about disaster relief efforts is available at DSHS’ website at
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/dshstoday/katrina.shtm
· HHS Office of Civil Rights (OCR) has issued a bulletin discussing the application of the HIPAA privacy rules in emergency situations.
http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa/KATRINAnHIPAA.pdf
· Texas Providers should use the following telephone numbers for Provider Relations in Louisiana to obtain a provider enrollment packet and/or to verify Medicaid eligibility -- 800-473-2783 or 225-237-3370. Additional eligibility verification numbers are 255-216-7387 or 800-776-6323. In order to ensure the health and safety to all care recipients, Texas licensed long-term care facilities and agencies (NF, ALF, ICF/MR, Home Health and Hospice) that choose to admit Louisiana residents will be required by DADS to provide care according to the requirements for Texas licensure and Medicaid certification.

Housing
All Housing requests: HUD establishes single toll-free number 888-297-8685 to help disaster victims with all housing concerns. Assistance available from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., CST, seven days a week
Housing Opportunities for Katrina Survivors
http://www.katrinahousing.org/
Make A Home: Houston Association Of Realtors, 713-748-GIVE (4483)
Houston Apartment Association, (281) 933-2224, will offer reduced rent to evacuees at certain properties, depending on availability.
Harris County Housing Authority, 8410 Lantern Point, 713-578-2150, has 500 units available for evacuees who received "HUD Section-8 Housing-Choice Vouchers."
Evacuees can search for free housing and residents can offer free housing.
http://www.hurricanehousing.org/
City Wide Club of Clubs Adopt-A-Family/Share-Your-Home Project, 713-752-CLUB (2582)
Governor Perry has issued an Executive Order suspending both the state and local hotel/motel taxes for the next 60 days for Louisiana evacuees.
http://www.governor.state.tx.us/divisions/press/exorders
The IRS has approved the waiver request submitted by Governor Perry that will allow an estimated 18,000 vacant income eligible housing units to be used by displaced hurricane evacuees.
The Texas Apartment Association is working to identify vacant apartments that can be used for long-term housing for evacuees.
The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief Act, As Amended, 42 U.S.C. 5121, et seq. (amended by Public Law 106-390, October 30, 2000) This act is an executive order which empowers the President to buy, lease and acquire temporary housing during times of disaster. Housing is defined as both stationary and mobile residences, and includes rental properties as well. This provision also includes text that dictates that these temporary homes may be ultimately purchased by new inhabitants at fair and reasonable prices set by the President
http://www.fema.gov/library/stafact.shtm

Employment
Global Strategic Sourcing Job Bank.
Evacuees who need work: 713-583-9867
Submit resumes at:
apply@globalstrategicsourcing.com
Employers wanting to hire: 713-583-9866 or e-mail at employers@globalstrategicsourcing.com
· http://www.katrinajobrelief.com/
· Unemployment Assistance
Louisiana: File for Unemployment Benefits asap at http://lavos.laworks.net/default.asp
Mississippi: File for unemployment benefits online at http://mdes.ms.gov/wps/portal/#null
Alabama: Unemployment Compensation information
File by phone: Call the toll-free Initial Claims line at 866-234-5382 http://dir.alabama.gov/uc/
The Texas Workforce Commission is going to assist with Unemployment Insurance Claims and with helping people who want to work.
http://www.twc.state.tx.us/
Employers who want to List Available Job Openings: 800-695-6879
Katrina FAQ for Barbers & Cosmetologists wanting to work in Texas http://www.license.state.tx.us/hurricane.htm
· Austin, Texas: Goodwill Industries of Central Texas is working on a job fair for evacuees staying in Austin. Employers who would like to participate in this job fair can call 480-0772. The date of the fair will be announced.
· City of Austin Jobs
http://www.cityofaustin.org/jobapp/cityjobs.cfm
Transportation
· TxDOT: Medical Transportation 877-633-8747

General Help
Governor Perry has activated the OneStar Foundation to act as a volunteer/donation clearinghouse for anyone in the country wishing to donate cash and non-cash items, food or volunteer. 800-707-6768
http://www.onestarfoundation.org/
http://www.texasresponds.org/
Louisiana State Police: 800-469-4828
Texas United Way: Evacuees in need of food stamps should call 713-957-HELP or 800-500-4266
WIC benefits for evacuees: 713-794-9090 or 800-942-3678
Find a School: 713-892-6699
Evacuees can get mail forwarded to their shelter by filling out a change-of-address form at 800-ASK-USPS
Evacuees at the Astrodome can receive mail at this address: Evacuee's Name, General Delivery, Houston, TX 77230. Make sure to include the evacuee's name.
SPCA Emergency Pet Hot Line: 713-802-0555
Displaced businesses seeking office space
http://www.houstondowntown.com/
Legal Assistance: The American Bar Association in cooperation with FEMA, has opened 24 hours toll-free numbers for victims of Hurricane Katrina who need legal assistance or advice: Louisiana: 800-310-7029; Mississippi: 866-255-4495; Alabama: 800-354-6154
Next of Kin: The Times-Picayune Breaking news web blog
http://www.nola.com/newslogs/breakingtp/
Craigslist Resources for Katrina Evacuees
http://neworleans.craigslist.org/about/help/katrina_cl.html

Helpful Information
Better Business Bureau: Check out charity before giving
Texas Attorney General's toll-free complaint line for price gouging: 800-252-8011
Texas Department of Insurance’s Consumer Protection Division:
http://www.tdi.state.tx.us/consumer/katrina.html
NOAA: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Satellite Images
Other state government insurance help lines are as follows: Alabama Department of Insurance, 800-433-3966, 334-241-4141 (outside Alabama); Louisiana Department of Insurance, 800-259-5300, 225-342-5900 (outside Louisiana); Mississippi Department of Insurance, 800-562-2957, 601-359-2453 (outside Mississippi)
Hurricane Katrina victims with questions about their insurance can call the Texas Department of Insurance's toll-free Consumer Help Line at 800-252-3439. For a list of insurance carriers and their disaster hot line numbers, visit the insurance department's Web site at
www.tdi.state.tx.us/commish/storms/index.html
"Emergency Evacuation Preparedness: Taking Responsibility For Your Safety- A Guide For People with Disabilities and Other Activity Limitations" http://www.cdihp.org/products.html
Disaster Resources for People with Disabilities and Emergency Managers http://www.jik.com/disaster.html
Emergency Preparedness Initiative: National Organization on Disability http://www.nod.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=Page.viewPage&pageID=11
The Department of Health and Human Services has established a website https://volunteer.hhs.gov/
and toll-free number (1-866-KAT MEDI) to help identify health care professionals and relief personnel to assist in Hurricane Katrina relief efforts.
Sarah Whitlock, Ms. Wheelchair Texas: volunteer assistance
sbw2911@aol.com

Saturday, September 10, 2005

Useful Administrative Specific Information:

*Katrina specific information on HRSA website: http://www.hrsa.gov/katrina/

*Grant deadline extended: http://www.hrsa.gov/grants/preview/#extension

*FEMA public assistance info: http://www.fema.gov/rrr/pa/overview.shtm

*Assistance with damage to facilities: http://www.fema.gov/rrr/pa/9521_1.shtm

*Centers for Medicaid & Medicare Services: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/katrina/

* Phone numbers for State Assistance Medical Offices: http://www.medicare.gov/Contacts/Include/DataSection/Results/Results.asp?version=default&browser=IE%7C6%7CWinXP&language=English&search_dest=Nav%7CHome%7CSearch%7CSearchCriteria&pagelist=Home&Org=P%7CState+Medical+Assistance+Office&State=Select+All+States&btnViewResults=View+Results&BeforeValidation=true&Type=ORGANIZATION&Top5=true&dest=NAVHomeSearchResultsSearchCriteria
* HIPPA Privacy and Disclosures in Emergency Situations:
http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa/KATRINAnHIPAA.pdf


* National Healthcare for Homeless (has many informational links): http://www.nhchc.org/aboutkatrina.html#hrsa

Tuesday, September 06, 2005

Services in MISSOURI

Case Mangement (case managers will help to access services):

St. Louis region: (314) 989-5702
Kansas City region: (816) 513-6214
Southwest region: (800) 743-5767
Southeast region: (573) 840-9736
Northwest region: (800) 945-4601
North Central: (800) 785-2437

More info for TEXAS

HURRICANE KATRINA SPECIAL NOTICES:
-Emergency HIV Medication Assistance for Those Displaced by Katrina-Pharmacy Board Extends Emergency Refill Limit for Katrina Refugees-
Louisiana Medicaid Prescription Information
-Immunization Requirements Relaxed for Students Displaced by Katrina

EMERGENCY HIV MEDICATION ASSISTANCE FOR THOSE DISPLACED BY KATRINA
The Texas HIV Medication Program (THMP), the AIDS Drug Assistance Program(ADAP) for the State of Texas, has been working to develop a special programto provide emergency assistance to the ADAP clients in Louisiana,Mississippi and Alabama that have been displaced by Hurricane Katrina andseeking refuge in Texas. Because it is so critical to maintain continuityof care for persons living with HIV/AIDS on antiretroviral therapy, the THMPhas taken the unprecedented step in expanding program access to non-Texas residents in their time of need.Clients who were normally receiving access to HIV medications through theLouisiana, Mississippi or Alabama ADAPs will need to complete a single-pageform, titled the Emergency Relief ADAP Application, along with proof ofidentity (such as a copy of their photo ID), a copy of their state ADAP IDcard if available, and a completed Medical Certification Form if they arenow being seen by a physician in Texas or receiving health care at a Texaslocation. Completed paperwork should be faxed to the THMP at 512-371-4670 forprocessing. Once approved, the client will be able to obtain a 30-daysupply of their approved medications at a designated participating pharmacy.The emergency assistance will be available for eight weeks from their dateof approval; a new client application will be required for continuedassistance if needed at that time.Copies of the Emergency Relief ADAP Application can be obtained by callingthe THMP at 800-255-1090 or 512-533-3000, or via their website atwww.tdh.state.tx.us/hivstd/meds.

PHARMACY BOARD EXTENDS EMERGENCY REFILL LIMIT FOR KATRINA REFUGEESThe Texas State Board of Pharmacy (TSBP) is allowing pharmacists to supplyup to a 30-day supply of medication for patients relocated to Texas becauseof Hurricane Katrina.Normally, Texas pharmacists may not dispense more than a 72-hour supply ofmedication without the authorization of the prescribing practitioner.However, because of the emergency situation caused by Hurricane Katrina,TSBP will not enforce the 72-hour supply limit. Pharmacists may useprofessional judgment to provide up to a 30-day supply of medication (otherthan a Schedule II controlled substance) for patients displaced to Texas bythe hurricane.The laws and rules governing the practice of pharmacy in Texas allowpharmacists to provide emergency refills when the prescribing practitionercannot be reached. Specifically, in an emergency, a pharmacist may usehis/her professional judgment in refilling a prescription drug order (otherthan a Schedule II controlled substance) if failure to refill theprescription might result in an interruption of a therapeutic regimen orcreate patient suffering.For more information, please visit www.tsbp.state.tx.us/hurricaneinfo.htm.

LOUISIANA MEDICAID PRESCRIPTION INFORMATIONTexas pharmacists filling prescriptions for Louisiana Medicaid recipientsmust fax enrollment forms to 225-216-6392 or 225-216-6335. Forms areavailable at www.hhsc.state.tx.us/hcf/vdp/vdpstart.html. Please disregardinstructions that prohibit faxed applications. To verify patienteligibility, call 800-473-2783.

IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS RELAXED FOR STUDENTS DISPLACED BY KATRINAIn an effort to assist families displaced by Hurricane Katrina, the TexasDepartment of State Health Services (DSHS) has waived normal immunizationrequirements for attending schools and child-care facilities in Texas. Children from Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama are to be granted a 30-dayprovisional enrollment that is already provided to students who transferfrom one Texas school to another. A form for public and private schools and child-care facilities to use totrack these children is available on the DSHS Immunization Branch Web siteat www.ImmunizeTexas.com.

Sunday, September 04, 2005

General Information

---Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
Provide assistance in disaster areas. For assistance, contact FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or apply online at https://disasteraid.fema.gov/IAC/displayPage.do?forward=home&

---The Body (more HIV/AIDS specific resources) : http://www.thebody.com/aahivm/katrina_patients.html

---For missing persons:
American Red Cross 1-866-GET-INFO
American Red Cross Elderly/Disabled 713-313-1628
Salvation Army http://www.satern.org/or 1-800-725-2769
Louisiana State Police 1-800-469-4828
National Next of Kin Registry http://nokr.org/nok/restricted/home.htm
MSNBC http://msnbc.msn.com/id/9146348/

---Hurricane Employment: (866) 4USA-DOL

---Numbers to get a copy of birth certificates, marriage license, etc.
* For evacuees from Louisiana: 816-310-7617
* For evacuees from other states: 225-743-5748

---View of the New Orleans:
CNN: http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2005/hurricanes/interactive/fullpage.nola.flood/katrina.html
GlobeXplorer:
http://www.globexplorer.com/disasterimages/index.shtml

New Orleans flood map: http://mapper.cctechnol.com/floodmap.php

Local information/resources:
--- New Orleans Channel 4 link: http://www.wwltv.com/

---The Times Picayune online: http://www.nola.com/

HIV services in MISSISSIPPI

Still to come....

HIV services in FLORIDA

Message from Righttrack:
Rightrack is a program for the HIV/AIDS community in south Florida. In an effort to assits our brothers and sisters in the Katrina/Rita situation we have prepared 4 homes with 4 bedrooms each to house 32 patients. We provide housing meals and medical as well as mental services. We are also provide FREE transpportation from the affected areas. Our number is 713-429-9706.

Saturday, September 03, 2005

HIV services in TEXAS

---Texas ADAP by calling 1-800-255-1090 ext. 3006 (Becky). They are setting up a one page application (over the phone) to assist LA residents over the next month or month and a half.

---HIV services in the Houstone EMA (resource booklet all providers): http://www.rwpc.org/Blue_Book/04-05/Blue%20Book%20in%20English/English.htm

---For HIV primary care and other services: Montrose Clinic (713) 730-3000 or other agencies http://www.rwpc.org/Blue_Book/04-05/Blue%20Book%20in%20English/Categories/Hospitals.htm

---For Case Management: http://www.rwpc.org/Blue_Book/04-05/Blue%20Book%20in%20English/Categories/Case%20Management.htm

---Bering Omega Community Centers: (713) 529-6071 or http://www.beringomega.org/news/20050831-Katrina.htm

Other Services

Housing

Some housing resources available to you:

* The Houston Association of REALTORS inconjunction with Channel 2 and other community groups to establish a helpline of housing for those in need. Hurricane Katrina reference guide of key emergency numbers.
*General resources for evacuees in the Houston area (1 page):
http://katrina.uwtgc.org/pdfs/HChron_UWTGC_Katrina_Ad.pdf

General
---List of resources for victims (food stamps, free meals, medical services, shelters..etc.) and people who would like to help (how/what to donate or where to volunteer) (19 pages):
http://katrina.uwtgc.org/pdfs/Disaster_Relief_Guide.pdf

---Red Cross shelters: 1-(866) GET-INFO; for houston area (713) 313-5480 or the following website http://www.houstonredcross.org/cgi-bin/NewsList.cgi?section=&cat=General&rec=161

---Houston Salvation Army: 713-752-0677 or http://www.salvationarmyhouston.org/

Places where I got my information:
Houston Chronicle: http://www.chron.com/content/chronicle/special/05/katrina/index.html
United Way of Texas Gulf Coast: http://katrina.uwtgc.org/

Friday, September 02, 2005

HIV services in GEORGIA

* Search engine of key contacts that covers Metro Atlanta & other areas in Georgia (including non-Title I providers):

http://www.seatec.emory.edu/keycontacts/

* HIV infected individuals may also access medical care and medications in Atlanta through the Atlanta EMA Ryan White Title I system. Records of the individuals served, the service provided, the date, and as much documentation of eligibility will be collected. The following are Atlanta EMA Ryan White Title I agencies:

AID Atlanta, Inc.
1605 Peachtree Street, NE
Atlanta, GA 30309-2433
404-870-7710 phone 404-870-7719 fax

AID Gwinnett, Inc.
725 Scenic Hwy.
Lawrenceville, GA 30045-6364
770-962-8396 phone 770-962-1291 fax

AIDS Survival Project
139 Ralph McGill Blvd., Suite 201
Atlanta, GA 30308
404-874-7926 phone 404-524-2462 fax

AIDS Treatment Initiatives
139 Ralph McGill Blvd., Suite 305
Atlanta, GA 30309
404-659-2437 phone 404-659-2438 fax

ANIZ, Inc.
233 Mitchell Street, Suite 200
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
404-521-2410 phone 404-521-2499

Atlanta Interfaith AIDS Network
139 Ralph McGill Blvd
Atlanta, GA 30308
404-502-7587 phone 404-524-2462 fax

Atlanta Legal Aid Society, Inc.
151 Spring Street, NW
Atlanta, GA 30303-2097
404-614-3990 phone 404-524-5710 fax

Cobb County Board of Health
1650 County Services Parkway
Marietta, GA 30060
770-514-2369 phone 770-514-2498 fax

DeKalb County Board of Health
440 Winn Way
Decatur, GA 30030
404-508-7898 phone 404-508-7868 fax

Fulton County Health Department
99 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive, SE
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-730-1412 phone

Grady Health Systems (IDP) - Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority
341 Ponce de Leon Ave
Atlanta, GA 30308
404-616-4252 phone 404-659-2268 fax 404-616-9700 alternate fax

National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities (NAESM)
2140 M.L. King Jr. Drive, SW
Atlanta, GA 30310
404-753-2900 phone 404-752-9610 fax

Our Common Welfare
3423 Covington Drive, Suite B
Decatur, GA 30032
404-284-6061 phone 404-284-9810 fax

Positive Impact
139 Ralph McGill Blvd, Suite 301
Atlanta, GA 30308
404-589-9040 phone 404-589-1615 fax

Project Open Hand
176 Ottley Drive, NE
Atlanta, GA 30324
404-872-8089 phone 404-872-9301 fax
Saint Joseph’s Mercy Care Services, Inc.
424 Decatur Street
Atlanta, GA 30312
(404) 880-3550

Visiting Nurse Health System
100 Edgewood
Suite 915
Atlanta, GA 30303404-869-3088 phone 404-869-3099 fax

Other Non-Title I:
* HEAVENLY HOME, INC. (assist HIV infected individuals with getting SSI, medications, counseling and transition to permanent housing )
P.O.Box 1163
THOMASVILLE,GEORGIA 31799
229-228-9373