Vitter Wants Disaster Declaration For Acadia Parish

(Photo of Rayne High School courtesy of katc.com)

(Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Sen. David Vitter today sent a letter to President Obama asking him to make a presidential disaster declaration for Acadia Parish as a result of the tornado on March 5, 2011. Vitter’s letter is in support of Gov. Bobby Jindal’s request for presidential disaster declaration.

“Acadia Parish and Rayne suffered considerable damage earlier this month and I’ve asked the President to grant Louisiana’s disaster declaration request and expedite the needed assistance to the region,” Vitter said.

The text of Sen. Vitter’s letter is below.

March 21, 2011

The Honorable Barack Obama

President of the United States

The White House

Washington, DC 20500

Dear President Obama,

On March, 5, 2011, Louisiana suffered a tornado that caused considerable damage. In particular, the City of Rayne in Acadia Parish was severely impacted by the strong winds. Governor Bobby Jindal has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas and has asked for a major disaster declaration for the State of Louisiana. I would like to express my support for the state’s request and ask that you expedite the needed assistance to Louisiana.

Over 100 homes and businesses experienced major damage, with half of the homes categorized as destroyed or damaged. Over 500 citizens were forced to evacuate and a dozen individuals were injured, with one fatality. These are just a few examples of the severe damage caused by these tornadoes.

Specifically, I ask that you support the state’s request to provide individual assistance, including the Individual Housing Program, Disaster Unemployment Assistance, Crisis Counseling and Small Business Administration Disaster Loans, and Public Assistance for Acadia Parish, Louisiana (City of Rayne).

I am happy to work with you in any way possible to help the residents of the affected area in their time of great need, and I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

David Vitter

United States Senator

CC: Hon. Craig Fugate, Administrator, Federal Emergency Management Agency