Boys Town Louisiana

Boys Town Louisiana employees and youth planned well make a stop on their way to Camp Bisteneau as they evacuate from Hurricane Gustav. Nearly 30 youth and staff spent five days at the camp before they could return to their homes and shelter, which received very minimal damage.

Boys Town Louisiana's Preparation Helps During Hurricane Gustav

When Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans in 2005, Boys Town Louisiana youth and staff had no idea how long they would be forced out of their homes and shelters while the damage was assessed. Three years later with Hurricane Gustav bearing down on the Gulf Coast, Boys Town Louisiana used this experience to prepare their youth and staff months in advance.

“We began preparing our staff in June in case we would need to evacuate again,” said Rashain Carriere, Boys Town Louisiana Program Operations Manager. “We have experience with hurricanes and when Gustav hit, our staff knew exactly what had to be done to keep our kids positive and alleviate their fears.”

Nearly 30 youth and staff members, including Dr. Dennis Dillon, Boys Town Louisiana Executive Director, evacuated to Camp Bisteneau in North Louisiana. Though the youth were anxious because of past hurricane experiences, they settled down quickly and continued on with their programs. After spending five days in the secluded camp, staff and youth returned once power was restored to their homes and shelter, which only received minimal damage.

“It is an awesome moment when you see Boys Town staff exemplify professionalism and dedication to our children in light of the fact they weren’t sure of their own families’ safety,” said Dillon. “That’s a kind of commitment that demonstrates a heart for children.”