Our Nation

Katrina Relief

Hurricane Katrina was responsible for over 1800 deaths and has cost America over $81 billion so far. Many states were affected by this hurricane, with New Orleans, LA receiving quite a bit of press over the damaged levees, but the eye of the storm hit the little town of Waveland, MS and caused more damage there than in any other gulf town. Local residents are still reeling from the disaster. Roger DeRuiter has gone to Waveland as Grace’s first missionary to help the community of Waveland for a year.

The wind, waves, rain and other elements crushed Waveland in such a destructive manner that the town almost ceased to exist. Roger arrived on his first volunteer visit about four months after Katrina first hit,. Waveland is one of the poorest towns in the country, but it was known for it’s lush landscapes and dense forests. However, when Roger arrived there was no greenery, no birds; just the aftermath of one of the most powerful destructive forces in nature. The destruction of the town and the desperate needs of the people began to move Roger's heart.

Roger made two more trips to Waveland, MS, volunteering to help where he could, often assisting in the relief coordinating. There is a lot of construction that needs to be done and the community needs help to rebuild itself. Roger initially went because he had the time and the opportunity to go. He has continued to help because "the desire to go has been heavy.", but on the last trip something changed in his heart. "I saw the need and the deep appreciation of the people there, I worked with some of the elderly there who were grateful for the work we were doing and were weeping just because we helped them knock down a couple of walls."

As a result, Roger is volunteering his efforts with Christian Living Center (AKA Camp Katrina) as an Assistant Construction Coordinator, and he hopes his Occupational Therapy skills will also be put to use in and around Waveland. Construction is a major need; of the 264 applications the CLC has received to repair homes in Waveland, only 54 have been restored. Part of the challenge is that the destruction that Katrina has inflicted on Waveland has become a forgotten cause.

The town has recovered in some ways, Roger says he's seen the greenery return, as well as the birds and flowers. There's an underlying strength there, but it's fragile. Stores are reopening and there are even a lucky few who have returned to lives as they were before the tragedy. However, there are still thousands of people in need. Roger will be in Waveland for a year to help where he can, pursuing Christ's heart for people and setting an awesome example in the process.

If you wish to financially partner with Roger or with the CLC, you can mail checks, payable to CLC-MS, to 1807 Waveland Ave, Waveland, MS 39576. If you desire to support Roger, please note that on your check. Roger will also be updating a blog to share his story and his time there, check out www.rogerderuiter.blogspot.com. His e-mail is raja_13@hotmail.com.