Action Item

As we mark the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the worst natural disaster in American history, we remember the thousands of people who lost loved ones, whose homes were destroyed, and who were separated from their families. Children were the most vulnerable victims.

For days and weeks children in the United States didn't get food, safe shelter, critically needed pediatric medical care or trauma counseling. For weeks or months, children were out of school, putting their education on hold. Our children deserve better than that.

Without a comprehensive strategy in place to serve the unique needs of children facing catastrophic events, we risk repeating the mistakes we saw in the wake of Katrina. We must urge Congress to take action now to protect children before the next disaster strikes.

By adopting the recommendations of the National Commission on Children and Disasters, Congress can provide solutions for:

Providing and coordinating appropriate pediatric care, medical supplies and counseling.
Creating and protecting safe shelter for displaced children and their families.
Coordinating services among child welfare agencies.
Meeting the nutritional and educational needs of displaced children.

Now that there is a plan in place, it's critical that Congress act now to put it in action. Please join Habitat for Humanity by signing the petition to ask Congress to take action today.

Habitat for Humanity is a leading nonprofit organization founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a decent, safe and affordable place to live. The chaos and uncertainty that follows a major disaster requires a comprehensive national system to protect survivors at risk -- especially children. We have to act now before the next disaster hits -- sign the petition today.