Time, money pouring into Little Rock Diocese to aid evacuees

Published: 2005-09-15

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (CNS) -- The Diocese of Little Rock and its parishes are continuing their efforts to aid those affected by Hurricane Katrina. According to figures available Sept. 12, the second collection held Sept. 3-4 in parishes across the diocese raised more than $251,000. All the money will support the work of Catholic Charities of Arkansas and Catholic Charities USA. The diocese's Hurricane Relief Office, headed by Sister Joan Pytlik, a Daughter of Charity, will focus on case management, family reunification and resettlement. Parish hurricane relief coordinators are being appointed in parishes, and the diocese will provide training to coordinators and their volunteers. As of Sept. 12, the Catholic Schools Office reported 197 students are now registered in 26 schools in Arkansas. Mount St. Mary Academy and Our Lady of the Holy Souls School in Little Rock and St. Michael School in West Memphis have the highest number of new students with 19, 18 and 16, respectively. In almost every corner of the statewide diocese, story after story can be told of storm victims finding a haven of help and hope.

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