[ Katrina Rebuilding Kit ]

Hurricane Katrina, the worst natural disaster ever to hit the U.S. mainland, emptied New Orleans of its population while filling it with floodwater. When some families returned months after their evacuation, they found ruined houses and no jobs. More than two years later, the city is still struggling to recover — but residents are tackling the task with trademark New Orleans spirit.

Mercy Corps is working with local organizations, businesses and residents to launch innovative rebuilding programs that will ensure that ongoing needs are met and communities become the agents of their own change. Your purchase of a Katrina Rebuilding Kit helps fund innovative, locally generated rebuilding programs in the Gulf region that create jobs while protecting the environment and preserving the area's unique culture and heritage.

When you buy a Mercy Kit, we will deliver a beautiful, full-color card to your recipient by regular mail or email — you choose. This card describes in detail how your gift is supporting Mercy Corps' work around the world. A Mercy Kit is a caring, convenient way to share your commitment with a friend or loved one.

Why Your Help is Needed

Hurricane Katrina was the worst natural disaster to ever hit the U.S. mainland. Families across the devastated Gulf Coast lost their homes and belongings to the storm and floodwaters. Challenges still remain: a lack of jobs keeps many from returning, and social support is still flagging. However, New Orleans residents -- with trademark spirit -- are determined to rebuild.

Your Mercy Kits at Work

Mercy Corps works with local organizations, businesses and residents to ensure that community needs are met. We're helping them buy the supplies to restock their small businesses, reopen public libraries, and mobilize to clean and rebuild their neighborhoods. Mercy Corps' Gulf Coast programs have helped bring residents of Louisiana and Mississippi back home, and have put several New Orleans neighborhoods on the road to recovery. They have helped preserve the city's rich cultural heritage, and protect its fragile environment.

Purchase of a Mercy Kit is a symbolic gift that supports Mercy Corps' worldwide programs to help children and families in need. The Breastfeeding Kit, Climate Change Kit, Fuel-Efficient Stove Kit, Green Latrine Kit, HIV/AIDS Awareness Kit, Plant a Tree Kit, Play to Heal Kit and Uganda Farm Kit supports those specific project funds. Other Mercy Kit purchases will be used where most needed.