Travelers Aid Working Hard to Reunite Families Separated by Hurricane Katrina

On a national scale, Travelers Aid International is working with members of Congress and other government agencies to promote the abilities of its member agencies from all over the country, who are able to handle the important issue of reunification, a term used in the social service industry to mean the provision of travel to reunite families in crisis.  Funding for this service is normally provided to national Travelers Aid Members on a more local basis depending on their individual needs and local resources.  As a result of Hurricane Katrina, demand is up around the country while shrinking resources cannot possibly keep pace with the need.

“Making families whole again is an important part of the overall healing process for these people who have suffered so much trauma in their lives,” says Edward Powers, Executive Director Travelers Aid of Metropolitan Atlanta.  “This is a great way for someone to support our work, knowing that 100% of their donation will go to bringing families a sense of peace in their otherwise uncertain lives.”

Even amongst the thought of having lost all of their worldly possessions, there is no fear greater than not knowing the location and well being of a family member.  Travelers Aid of Metropolitan Atlanta has been providing reunification services in the Atlanta area for over 100 years and will continue to do so as long as funding is available to the agency.  The average cost of ground transportation to reunite families is around $175 per person while the average cost of air travel is between $225 and $250 per person depending on the destination. In many cases, Travelers Aid is able to work with transportation companies to waive fees that elevate last minute ticket purchases, allowing quicker family reunions at a more efficient price.

If you have been looking for a unique and meaningful way to assist evacuees from the Gulf Coast Region, please consider supporting the Travelers Aid of Metropolitan Atlanta Reunification Program.  To donate, please visit our website at www.travelersaidatlanta.org or you may send your contribution directly to Travelers Aid, 60 Walton Street, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30303.  Please write Reunification on your check so that we can properly apply your donation to this relief effort.

Media Contact:

Michael Schoppenhorst

Director of Marketing & Development

60 Walton Street, Suite 200

Atlanta, GA 30303

Main Line: 404-817-7070

Direct Line: 404-419-8042

Fax: 404-817-9922

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