Aquinas College :: Campus Ministry

Service-Learning Programs: Hurricane Relief

Online application available via CourseConnect*

>>Apply Now

Description of Program:

From March 7-14, 2009, a group from Aquinas will travel to Hammond, Louisiana to participate in Hurricane Relief work. Ginger Ford Habitat for Humanity is the southern Tangipahoa Parish affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry. Habitat seeks to eliminate poverty housing from Tangipahoa Parish and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. During Hurricane Katrina, many homes in the area suffered wind damage and rebuilding efforts are continuously needed.

Description of Services:

Participants should be in good physical health and prepared for a variety of work and service projects. Although it has been several months since the hurricanes hit, much of the damage caused by these large-scale disasters still remains. Potential projects might include roofing, tree and branch removal, rebuilding, housing clean-up, and staffing of food/supply distribution center. Some project tasks may seem monotonous. Relief work can be hard both physically and emotionally. Participants are encouraged to identify their special gifts/talents that might be used to help with local needs.

Living Arrangements:

The group will stay overnight at a local church and drive to work sites each day. Basic accommodations will be provided. Participants will need to bring a sleeping bag/blankets and pillow. Simple meals will be provided as well and participants may be asked to assist with meal preparation.

Financial Arrangements:

Cost for each student is $175. We encourage students to seek sponsorships to cover their fee. Program fee covers transportation to and from Louisiana as well as lodging and all meals on-site. Participants should bring money and or food to cover meals on the way to and from Louisiana.

Payment Process:

If your participation fee has not been waived, a NON-REFUNDABLE program fee of $175 will be charged to your student account. If you are not accepted, the charge will be cancelled. If you are accepted, you will be responsible to pay your program fee through your student account. Note: Even if you withdraw from the program, after being accepted, you are still responsible for the payment. Student Account policies apply to any unpaid balances.

Requirements:

Space is limited, and priority will be given to current full-time, traditional age Aquinas students, though graduate students and guests are welcome to apply. (Prices may differ for guests.)
Online application available via CourseConnect*
A Habitat Release and Waiver of Liability Form
Attend an orientation meeting.

*Search for "Service Learning" in CourseConnect or look under "Miscellaneous"

Photo Gallery