Katy Veterans Group Accepting Donations to Help Lake Charles Hurricane Victims

KATY MAGAZINE NEWS

September 2, 2020

By Natalie Cook Clark

As Hurricane Laura ripped through Southern Louisiana last week, Katy’s American Legion Post quickly mobilized and organized a convoy of supplies and support for the area. Now, the group is seeking donations to provide additional aid to these Texas neighbors, just as they supported this area during Hurricane Harvey.

The American Legion Post 164 in Katy is accepting donations to support the Lake Charles communities recover after Hurricane Laura. Photo courtesy: The American Legion

Accepting Donations Now

The American Legion Post 164 in Katy is accepting supplies for Lake Charles and the surrounding communities until no longer needed. The 22nd District has a follow-up convoy trip planned for September 5. They are also supporting a blood drive to meet those growing needs.

This week, supplies can be dropped off at the American Legion Katy Post at 22125 Kingsland Boulevard, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“Our biggest needs are tarps, water, pet food, cleaning supplies, new underwear, diapers, non-perishable food and personal items,” says Harry Woodstrom.

Monetary donations and volunteers to staff the reception center are also welcome.

Returning The Support

“During Harvey, we were receiving truck loads from posts through the country as well as cash donations to purchase what was needed,” says Woodstrom.

“The American Legion is an organization of veterans helping veterans,” says Woodstrom. “It is also an organization that cares deeply about the community it interacts with.”

Byron K. Comeaux, State Commander of the Louisiana American Legion explains that the organization works on four pillars: veterans, national security, Americanism and youth programs.

“We rarely ask for help ourselves, and we thank the Texas contingent of the American Legion for being first on-scene to help the Lake Charles community of veterans and their families,” says Byron K. Comeaux.

Katy is Home to an Active Post

The American Legion Jonathan D. Rozier Post 164 in Katy is one of the most active posts in the Greater Houston Area and part of the 22nd District American Legion in Texas, comprised of 13 posts throughout the region.

Best, Fastest Way to Help

“The best, fastest way to get help to the people that need it is to support the American Legion Post in that community,” says Woodstrom. “They know where the problems are, they know what help will best serve their community.”

Register to Give Blood

A Katy community blood drive is scheduled for Tuesday, September 15 from 1- 7 p.m. at Katy Elks Lodge #2628. Due to the need to social distance, appointments must be made here. Use code: 2628.

All donors will receive COVID-19 Antibody testing and a free pair of socks for Children’s Cancer Awareness Month.

Learn more about Katy’s American Legion Post and how you can help at their website.