JEFFERSON, LA – Jefferson Parish is still rendering aid and assistance to our region through our Emergency Operations Center. We currently have approximately 60 first responders deployed throughout the areas most devastated. Those responders are using 12 JP boats to accomplish their mission. To date, since the initial response to the call for help, these first responders have been credited with rescuing and evacuating over 3500 evacuees. Today they will assist in the house to house searches in an attempt to locate stranded survivors or any fatalities. Our animal shelter has been credited with rescuing 75 animals of all sizes including horses, cows, and dogs. Our shelter workers have now been requested to report to Livingston Parish and aid in rescue and recovery efforts there.
The Jefferson Parish Public Works Department is working with neighboring parishes to assist with equipment for relief efforts as well as accessing the water levels for this historic flooding.
Several outside agencies have reached out to the Parish to offer assistance. Southwest Airlines has offered to fly in food and supplies if needed. CRC We Care! We Share! has transported supplies to flood-affected areas.
Parish President Michael Yenni said “I am extremely proud of Jefferson Parish and the personnel that have assisted in these difficult times. Your dedication and professionalism have meant so much to those affected by the flooding and you are truly shining examples of what the Jefferson Parish community is. To all the residents and organizations that have donated toiletries, clothing, and funds, your generosity has helped thousands and I thank each and every one of you for thinking of others who desperately need the assistance. The Parish will continue to provide resources and assistance wherever the help is needed.”
There are several websites to get information regarding weather, flood claims, and updated river level.
NWS New Orleans Website: www.weather.gov/neworleans
NWS New Orleans DSS Website: https://www.weather.gov/lix/embrief
River Gauges and Forecasts: http://water.weather.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=lix
NWS New Orleans Facebook: www.facebook.com/NWSNewOrleans
NWS New Orleans Twitter: https://twitter.com/NWSNewOrleans
Online Weather Reporting: https://www.spc.noaa.gov
Federal Disaster Assistance: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
LA Dept of Transportation and Development: http://wwwsp.dotd.la.gov
For those who want to help with donations, below is a list of sites where you can give the rest of this week.
Patrons of Lafreniere Park: Thursday, August 18, 2016, from 2 pm - 8 pm,
Items accepted: Clothing - in bags
Cleaning Supplies - unopened
Toiletries - unopened
Non-Perishable Food Items
Please bring your donations to the parking lot near Shelter #6 at Lafreniere Park, 3000 Downs Boulevard, Metairie, Louisiana 70003.
City of Kenner: Monday – Friday (8/15 – 8/19) from 10 am - 6 pm
Items accepted: New, unused toiletry donations for flood victims
Items can be dropped off at the Recreation Office, 1905 24th Street, near the brake tag station.
New Orleans Zephyrs: August 20-28, 2016 starting at 6 pm
From each ticket sold during the nine-game homestand, $1 will be donated to the American Red Cross “Louisiana Floods” relief fund.
The Zephyrs face the Oklahoma City Dodgers and Round Rock Express for nine games beginning on Saturday, August 20 at 6 p.m.
For more information, contact the Zephyrs at (504) 734-5155
