March of Dimes Helps Hurricane Ike Victims

(News release from March of Dimes) 

BEAUMONT, TEXAS December 1, 2008- In the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, March of Dimes set out to assist families in the Beaumont area in need.  March of Dimes allocated over $30,000 to support families with young children who had been displaced by the storm.  Thousands of diapers, wipes, and baby formula were purchased and then dispersed at shelters, Points of Distribution, and Disaster Recovery Sites. 

March of Dimes identified over 40 families who lost their homes and belongings during the hurricane and provided them with a new crib, crib mattress, bedding, clothing, and other baby items.  Thirty of these families were from the Bridge City, Beaumont, and Orange areas.  This work was made possible by the dedication and commitment of many volunteers from the Beaumont area including volunteers from Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital and Lamar University. 

Laura Perry, March of Dimes Program Services Committee Member and Christus St. Elizabeth employee stated:  "The devastation caused by Hurricane Ike in Region 5 has particularly affected Orange County. It has been a privilege to work with the March of Dimes to bring a caring face and assistance to families with infants and toddlers who have been displaced by the storm. The families have expressed immense appreciation for the March of Dimes overwhelming efforts." 

March of Dimes Texas Chapter was grateful to have the opportunity to be a Champion for babies in Texas, during their time of need and recovery after Hurricane Ike.  We are currently working to have families who lost their homes adopted for Christmas.  If you are interested in assisting a family at Christmas time, or for more information on March of Dimes in the Beaumont area and how you can become involved, call Jessica Lundgren at 713-964-5408 or Debbie Luquette at 409-835-7606.