February 1, 2007
Contact: Robin Winchell (202) 225-4031

WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Rep. Charlie Melancon today announced that St. Bernard Parish will receive a $1,281,325.50 federal disaster aid grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The grant will reimburse the Parish for debris removal costs following Hurricane Katrina.

"Acres of hurricane debris dumped a heavy logistical burden on our communities, and this grant will help St. Bernard Parish bear the cost of the clean up," said Melancon.  "I had hoped the President's Sate of the Union speech would address the pressing recovery issues facing the people of south Louisiana and all along the Gulf Coast.  Unfortunately it did not. However, we have not forgotten the promises made to us by the President and Congress. I will continue to push our federal government for more hurricane recovery assistance and also urge them to fully support a comprehensive hurricane and flood protection system for south Louisiana.

High winds and flooding from Hurricane Katrina caused widespread damage resulting in substantial amounts of vegetative and construction and demolition debris throughout St. Bernard Parish. This grant will reimburse St. Bernard Parish for the cost of the removal, hauling, dumping and reduction of 1,233,979 cubic yards of storm debris.

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