OPSB.net - High Enrollment and Generosity in Ouachita Parish

The devastation of Hurricane Katrina dislocated many families. Ouachita Parish has registered over 800 children in our schools. Through the "Bridges of Ouachita" Homeless Education Program, students of displaced families have received immediate enrollment. And, while these numbers rise, so the tremendous generosity of the citizens of Ouachita Parish grows.

In collaboration with Ouachita Parish School System, all federal programs and an enormous outreach of volunteer resources have assisted students with school clothing/uniforms, free lunches, and school supplies. Additionally, school communities have collected and distributed countless amounts of food, toiletries, diapers, household items, toys, clothing, etc. Finally, monetary donations to Red Cross and directly to shelters and victims of Katrina have topped $10,000.

We thank you for your generosity and concern for Hurricane Katrina families. It is truly a blessing to live in such a giving community. As you journey throughout your day, please remember to treat others as you would love to be treated. Let us continue to strengthen one another as we reach out to assist those in need and welcome our new friends to Ouachita Parish.

Sunnie Ashbrook, Homeless Liaison, Bridges of Ouachita

Aline Smead, Communications Coordinator, Ouachita Parish Schools