The National Trust for Historic Preservation has announced plans to provide grant funding and technical assistance to help historic and cultural sites recover from the wrath of Hurricane Katrina:

“In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, our immediate thoughts and efforts must be directed toward those whose lives are still at risk. But it is not too early to begin planning the massive effort that will be required to restore the hard-hit communities of the Gulf Coast. This effort will necessarily involve billions of private and public dollars, both from the United States and abroad,” said Richard Moe, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

“It is already apparent that New Orleans has suffered the most devastating natural disaster to befall a historic American city since Galveston was leveled by a hurricane in 1900 and San Francisco was ravaged by earthquake and fire in 1906. Because New Orleans is a unique city, with a rich mix of history, traditions and architecture found nowhere else, because it is a cultural treasure of international significance, the stabilization and restoration of its world-famed historic landmarks and neighborhoods should be a matter of global concern.”

When the region is reopened for damage assessment and planning, the Trust plans to provide assessment teams with expertise in repairing damage to historic structures and community revitalization. Expertise is key to helping rebuild, and not causing further damage to important historic structures.

The public is invited to make donations to this program. The funds collected will be specifically directed toward preservation work in the Gulf States. Volunteers with appropriate knowledge and experience will be selected for National Trust and FEMA Heritage Assessment teams. If you would like to apply, click on the link above right.

If you would like to make a donation or learn more about this program, visit the National Trust's website. So much has been lost -- can you spare some money to help rebuild? (Links above right)