Sunday Summary 7/29/07

GNODRP Partnership
I established Islamic Relief as a member of GNODRP (Greater New Orleans Disaster Recovery Partnership) in the early days of recovery after Katrina and Rita. When attending the initial meetings I explained our capacity and projects (primarily food distribution) to the other organizations of this partnership which includes the big dogs like United Way, Salvation Army, Red Cross, Catholic Charities as well as smaller churches and community organizations. So every once in while when the partnership needs assistance with the transportation of supplies and in-kind donations they call us and we do our best to contribute. Our recent delivery for GNODRP has been to deliver 12 pallets of paint from Houma to Kenner LA. Because of the nature of the partnership thus far the new chair member who happened to be affiliated with Catholic Charities has voiced her concern to improve on the reciprocity of the partnership. “Ruben - That sounds great! I was wondering if you and I could possibly meet one day soon to discuss how GNODRP can assist your programs. I am not familiar enough with what your org does to comment on the services you provide but want to recognize your org at our membership meeting. I feel that relationships should give and take from both ways, so I want to assist you when you need as well.
With Gratitude,”
Sara Galliano
Katrina Aid Today - Catholic Charities
1000 Howard Ave Rm 231
New Orleans, La. 70113
(504) 310-6878 or (504)236-1759

InshALLAH I want to maximize opportunities like this in the near future but need to commit to a specific project

New Muslim Sister Still In the Shelter
My wife visited the new Muslim revert to Islam in her mid Fifties who is currently homeless. She is living in a shelter that is for both men and women. When she attempts to cover she is laughed at by her homeless shelter mates. The Ansar committee has assisted this women in the past by paying for a week stay in a motel. From what I have gathered they are unable to right now because of time and social issues this women. They need a paid staff who can deal with all people including Americans who have embraced Islam. We are currently trying to get the sister married.