Monday, September 26

Red Cross in Beauregard Parish

Ralph Wright executive director of the Southwest Louisiana Chapter of the American Red Cross, said more than 700 Calcasieu Parish evacuees are being sheltered in DeRidder schools.

On Monday, Wright said 400 are staying at DeRidder High School and 300 are at DeRidder Junior High. At one time there were more than 600 at DeRidder High. Wright said some medically needy evacuees have been transported by bus to other locations.

He said evacuess are being fed three meals a day and living conditions are adequate.
"The thing we need now more than anything is electricity,"' he said. "We've got food and a place to stay."

The Southern Baptist Convention arrived at the shelters Monday to help cook meals, Wright said. More than 70 Red Cross volunteers from across the United States are assisting. Also, the Oregon National Guard is providing security at the shelters.
Wright said he is staying in close contact with Calcasieu Parish officials and will inform the evaucees when they can return home.

"We don't know how long it will be but these people will go back to Lake Charles as soon as they get the all clear to go back," he said.

Elona Weston
American Press

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