As we all begin to prepare for the holidays and give thanks for the many blessings and opportunities that we share, it is also a time to remember those who live in great need. In the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Episcopalians across the country mobilized and responded in prayer, financial support and direct service to those in need in the Gulf Coast. According to the Diocese of Louisiana, thousands of Episcopalians have volunteered in relief, recovery, and rebuilding efforts To date, over 1.1 million American citizens have traveled to the region since 2005 feeding, clothing, and comforting those whose lives were literally blown apart. They have also done the exhausting work needed to return homes and neighborhoods to livable conditions—all out of a commitment to justice, dignity and reconciliation.

Sadly many needs in the Gulf Coast remain unmet. Even more tragic, those who were poor and vulnerable before the storms have continued to be neglected in the recovery process. "What more can we do? How can we continue to help?

Contact your Senators today and urge them to support S. 1668, the Gulf Coast Housing Recovery Act of 2007. This legislation, which passed the House as H. 1227 with strong bipartisan support, is an opportunity for concerned Episcopalians across the nation to give the Gulf Coast a tremendous boost with our voices. The Senate could soon consider S. 1668, which will help ensure that all residents –homeowners, renters, first-time homebuyers and public housing residents alike—have a way to come home. Episcopalians and people of faith are doing our part; we must encourage our Government to fulfill its commitment to Gulf Coast Rebuilding.

At its Fall 2007 meeting in New Orleans, the House of Bishops called upon Congress to fulfill its moral obligation "to create a new vision for recovery of the Gulf Coast." S. 1668 provides an important foundation for that vision.

CLICK HERE to contact your Senators and urge them to support S. 1668 when it is brought to the floor.