Hello my name is Gina Jackson. I am married and have three beautiful boys (ages 9, 9, 6). I am a lifelong native of New Orleans. I have spent my entire professional career supporting others and connecting them with services. It’s so odd, being on the receiving end of the process of support. In 2005 our family experienced the horrific devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Our home was one that suffered complete loss. Though we survived and rebuilt our home, we once again find ourselves in a similar situation. On February 7, 2017 several massive tornadoes blew through East New Orleans. One of those tornadoes took our home. This time it is a total loss as we are left with a pile of rubble. The storm took everything we have and it’s going to be a very long road back to normal. My family was left with the clothes we have on our back, the only thing we have left of our family home are the memories we shared. Thankfully, my family is safe and we have extended family in the area where we have been staying. This is very difficult to share, but we need help. It took us so long to recover after Hurricane Katrina. Though we are extremely thankful for all that we have, the road to recovery was a very long and often challenging situation. Yet we made it though and somehow we will get there again. My family and I are extremely thankful for all the calls, text and messages of support to me and my family during this difficult time. Many people have offered to help clean up, but it is hard to explain to someone that it is mostly rubble. My dad and uncle shared with me that I ought to clean out the refrigerator and put the trash outside. All I could think of is we are already outside, there are no walls or roof. 

We are reaching out to the community to help us get back on our feet until the insurance monies become available. We need clothes, basic necessities, furniture and a place to live. Your contributions are greatly appreciated. Our first goal is to get clothing for our family and then we will look for a temporary place to live, until we can rebuild or purchase a new home. My family and I would like to thank the NHE, Inc. family for you concern and support for me and my family.