Requests for special events must be coordinated

The outpouring of generosity from the local community to the evacuees of Hurricane Katrina has been overwhelming at times. Individuals, groups and agencies have expressed their concern and kindness by providing necessities as well as toys and entertainment.

The Incident Management Team would like to express their appreciation for all the generous support and special events that have been provided to the evacuee’s at all four centers.

"However, the magnitude of offers is causing conflicts with scheduling and security," said Marc Mullenix, the Incident Commander of the Katrina Support effort. Mullenix reiterated that the mission of the Team is to provide the five main needs to the evacuees: food, shelter, medical needs, transportation, and security.

The Incident Management Team overseeing the operations of the evacuation centers is requiring that all new requests be made through Lon Oakley of the American Red Cross, the event and service coordinator to all centers. Lon can be reached at 210-582-1967.

Requests for special events should be sent to Lon at least 24-48 hours before the event might occur.

• Events will be allowed in the shelters from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., 7 days a week.
• Events involving food (BBQ, fried chicken, sno-cones, etc) will not be allowed.
• Events must be self-sufficient, including trash removal and security.
• Event sponsors must do their own promotion (posters and media, if desired)
• Events occurring outside the shelters should occur at a venue open to evacuees and local residents and advertised as such.
• Children will not be allowed off-site for extracurricular activities unless accompanied by a parent or guardian or to attend school.
• Special Services which will need table space will also need to go through Lon Oakley.

Oakley will coordinate all activities with the IMT to make sure that events won’t conflict with other important activities that are occurring like financial assistance, transportation, and job fairs that will help the evacuees re-establish a normal life.