Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) is actively involved in responding to Hurricane Katrina. John Robinson, National Associate for PDA, and members of the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Team (PDAT) have been in contact with middle governing bodies in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, and where Katrina has already hit, and will continue to be in contact to assess the situation and offer any needed assistance.

Eight PDAT members are currently working in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana; eight additional PDAT members are on standby ready to go to any area where they are needed; and at least six PDAT members are committed to long‑term recovery response.

This storm is extremely dangerous, and is causing widespread damage. We have already been alerted that several Presbyterian churches have sustained damage. Therefore, PDA has activated designated giving accounts to help pastors who are struggling to help members of their congregations while also struggling with personal loss, and an account to help with church repair and/or rebuilding.