Hurricane Evacuee Stories : Acadiana Outreach

Hardwell Ward was displaced from his home by Hurricane Katrina, but like so many, he sought refuge at the Outreach Center, where he accessed resources and was hired by the Center, along with 40 other evacuees, to serve those in need.

Hardell Ward, 22, was a first year student at Tulane Law School when Hurricane Katrina forced he and his sister, Karachie, to evacuate to Lafayette. Like most evacuees they didn't know where to turn, but thankfully, they ended up at the Outreach Center, where, through the Transitional Recovery Action Center for Katrina/Rita (TRAC) program, they received guidance and access to resources to help rebuild their lives. Hardell was hired as Warehouse Manager where he helped to distribute 700,000 pounds of supplies to evacuees in the three months following the storm.

Through the TRAC program, the Outreach Center gave Hardell and his sister the hope and stability they needed during their time of uncertainty.

Click here to see why Hardell thinks everyone has the same struggle

Click here to see how Hardell is paying it forward

Click here to see what the Outreach Center spirit is all about

"The most amazing aspect of this organization is its commitment to affecting men and women through a change in the way they view themselves... I have witnessed first hand the change in many men's lives through their association with the Outreach Center."

Tommy Kreamer
Episcopal Church of the Ascension

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