If you had the time, strength and basic handyman skills,

[Lancer]

would it be worth it to try and go help out on the Gulf Coast? Or would you just be in the way?

[Solly Mack]

1. The Red Cross can connect people with those skills with groups

going in to help.


Try calling them.

[ultraist]

5. Good tip.

The Red Cross and other orgs will most certainly need volunteers.

After the horrible floods in Eastern NC, I went over because I was already doing social work volunteer work in the area. Even with my SW background, it was difficult. The stench, the destruction, & the pain & grief of the locals was a lot to take in. It's one thing to see the images in photos, it's something else to be in the midst of it and talk with locals who have been affected.

If you have never been in an area, just hit with a natural disaster, prepare yourself first.

[DarkmoonIkonoklast]

2. They could, doubtless, use all the help they can get...

There will be organized relief efforts, and they will include reconstruction efforts... and any willing hands will be welcomed!

[Clintmax]

3. I'm sure they have a GREAT need for those with handyman skills...

If I did, I'd go and offer my services. No chance in hells I'd just be "in the way". :hi:

[cap]

4. try the carpenter's union

eom

[Lancer]

6. It's just a thought.

Sending a check seems so impersonal, although it's probably the best thing to do.

I feel so helpless watching TV. Even though I am capable and handy, I'm not licensed. I just feel like going there just to be compassionate and perhaps resourceful. I don't have much money, nor a lot of material possessions, but these people have lost everything.

[Deja Q]

7. If society wasn't based on money,

I'd go in a heartbeat.

I still need my job right now to pay off my previous life. :(

[Locrian]

8. wanna bet

Last time a hurricane hit FL Jeb called in construction firms from TX to manage EVERYTHING. A freelance could NOT work w/o fear of arrest.

Bet the same thing happens in NO?

[_ed_]

9. Habitat for Humanity

I've volunteered several times for HFH, and I'm almost completely incompetent with tools. Even if you're like me, they'll still have you carry stuff around, or help a skilled carpenter hold stuff.

You'll definitely help.