Pass Christian, Mississippi
After spending 5 weeks in this area close to the Gulf, and many conversations with local people we decided to return to the Gulfport and Pass Christian areas.
Approaching the area of the missing bridge, (see Bay Saint Louis blog below) from the East through Pass Christian on highway 90 we found even more devastating sights than we saw from the Bay Saint Louis side.
Approaching the area of the missing bridge, (see Bay Saint Louis blog below) from the East through Pass Christian on highway 90 we found even more devastating sights than we saw from the Bay Saint Louis side.
For about four to five blocks in from the coast everything is either missing or unrecognizable and still piled with assorted items.
Following highway 90 West we noticed a large red and white tent, small white portable buildings assorted vehicles and many people moving about.
Jannich investigated this tent and at last we have connected with the people on the ground who have their finger on what and who are needed and how any individual can help. Many people have told us that the cleanup and rebuilding could take 2 to 3 years or more. Any and all help is needed.
However, skilled labour such as drywall installers, carpenters and electricians are in demand. All volunteers need to bring would be items for their personal use, a sleeping bag and the tools of their trade. The small white garden shed-like buildings are being made by Mennonite groups in Pennsylvania. These SLEEPING UNITS will accommodate 6 people. If prior arrangements are made there will be a place for volunteers to sleep. Meals are provided in the large tent with the atmosphere being one of cheerfulness, hope and let's get this done. Each evening a church meeting is conducted in the tent and Bibles are freely given to anyone who wants one. The observation could be made that within 1 mile of this tent ministry two very large casinos and adjoining hotels were completely destroyed.
Today was a school holiday here in the US and we talked with a female teacher who had driven from Baton Rouge (2 hours) in order to help the hurting people of Mississippi. She does this once a month realizing that every little bit helps.
Jannich investigated this tent and at last we have connected with the people on the ground who have their finger on what and who are needed and how any individual can help. Many people have told us that the cleanup and rebuilding could take 2 to 3 years or more. Any and all help is needed.
Today was a school holiday here in the US and we talked with a female teacher who had driven from Baton Rouge (2 hours) in order to help the hurting people of Mississippi. She does this once a month realizing that every little bit helps.