A message from Governor John Bel Edwards, August 19, 2016

[A message from Governor Edwards]

 Once again, we find ourselves coping with the devastating effects of a severe storm and record flooding.

I've spent the last week traveling to the hardest hit areas of our state -- offering assistance, gathering information and making sure that every Louisianan had the assistance they needed. Our work is nowhere near finished.

Now, we're moving into the recovery phase, and it is my commitment to every person in this state who has been impacted by this storm -- we will not forget you. At my request, 20 parishes in our state have received a federal disaster declaration, meaning much-needed assistance is on the way for families across South Louisiana.

Please keep in mind, this event is ongoing. But right now, there are ways you can help.

As this continues to develop we would like to provide the following information:

• First, there are people across South Louisiana that need assistance. If you're able, please consider making a donation to the Louisiana Flood Relief Fund by clicking here.
• If you or a loved one has evacuated and needs a place to go, we encourage you to click here and check this list of up-to-date shelter locations.
• Click here and visit FEMA's Louisiana disaster page to stay up-to-date with the latest information.
• Click here to find open shelters, contact and locate loved ones, and stay prepared with the Red Cross’ disaster recovery guide.
• If you've been impacted by this flooding, it is critical that you register with FEMA at www.disasterassistance.gov. This is the first step in getting you the assistance you need as quickly as possible.
• If you need any additional help, please feel free to contact the Governor’s office at (225) 342-7015
• You can follow the Governor’s office for continuously updated information on Facebook and Twitter.

Sam, Louisianans are resilient.

We know that in trying times like this, the best thing we can do is to come together and help our neighbors. I've seen this time and again as I've traveled the state in the wake of this flooding.

We will weather this storm together. We will do what Louisianians always do -- come together, look out for our families and our neighbors, and rebuild one day at a time.

Your safety is -- and will always be -- my number one priority. So please Sam, stay safe, stay updated and please continue to pray for our great state in the coming days and weeks.

Thank you and God bless,

Gov. John Bel Edwards