Source: Catholic Charities USA
On September 2, 2005 Catholic Charities USA reported, "As the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina continues to take its toll along the Gulf Coast, Catholic Charities agencies from around the affected region and well beyond are actively responding to those in need. Catholic Charities agencies are working to meet the immediate needs of evacuees, as well as planning for the process of providing assistance for long-term recovery efforts. Catholic Charities agencies in the impacted area are also continuing to assess the extent of the damage and work with other relief organizations to respond. In addition to providing emergency services to evacuees, Catholic Charities agencies will provide assistance that will help hurricane victims and communities recover in the long-term. While Katrina's damage is still being evaluated, based on past disasters, the long-term services that Catholic Charities may provide include temporary and permanent housing, mental health counseling, direct assistance beyond food and water to get people back into their homes, job placement counseling, and medical and prescription drug assistance."