Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA) works closely with recovery committees and the affected Presbyteries to ascertain the needs and response in the local communities.

Following the devastation of Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma along the U.S. Gulf Coast, PDA established six Presbyterian Volunteer Villages in Mississippi and Louisiana. Pearlington Village can accommodate 74 volunteers.

Trinity Presbytery

Hurricane Katrina Recovery Week

September 28 - October 5, 2008

Pearlington, Mississippi

Cost: $160 (includes housing, meals on site, and transportation)

Contact: Tommy Stallings

(803) 331-8062; tommystallings@hotmail.com

Pearlington, MS is an unincorporated community which has been overlooked by government help and funds in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Pearlington was dubbed "ground zero" because the eye of Katrina passed right through the town. Population prior to the storm was 1,600. Today population is estimated at 800.

Volunteers will experience a unique sense of community in Pearlington. Hot lunches are provided daily at the First Missionary Baptist Church, and homeowners often join the volunteers for dinner and fellowship at the Volunteer Village.

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