For Immediate Release  
Sept. 5, 2005

Contact:  Dana Wolverton 517/333-5032
EMD NR-08

LANSING – Days of preparation are paying off as Michigan welcomes the first contingent of hurricane evacuees from the ravaged gulf area. Governor Jennifer Granholm announced Saturday that she offered - on behalf of the State of Michigan - to temporarily house up to 10,000 hurricane victims. The hurricane victims will be temporarily housed at Fort Custer in Augusta and Camp Grayling in Grayling. We have welcomed approximately 280 in two planes, today at approximately 5:00 p.m., including men, women, children and pets.

"Our goal is to give these people a safe, comfortable place to rebuild their lives until they can go home to a rebuilt gulf coast. We had everything in place ready to accept our brothers and sisters from the south," Granholm stated. "State and local agencies, businesses, non-profit organizations, health and human service organizations, and volunteer citizens have worked tirelessly to provide a comfortable setting for these citizens, and if necessary, transition them into transitional housing in our state."

Granholm continues to urge Michigan citizens to call the Michigan Hurricane Helpline at 1-888-535-6136 to pledge donations of goods and services. Citizens can also visit the state’s website at www.michigan.gov for up-to-date information on how to donate goods, services and money to aid the relief effort. Granholm urged that using the hotline for donations is more important than ever in the transition phase because it allows coordination and swift distribution of supplies and support.

Michigan has deployed 500 soldiers from the Michigan National Guard, 100 law enforcement officers representing 22 different agencies, and 50 certified DNR law enforcement officers. National Guard, DNR and law enforcement resources from Michigan were requested by the affected states through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).

"I am so proud of Michigan’s citizens for the kindness and generosity they have shown in assisting in this endeavor," Granholm stated. "It is truly heartwarming to see the compassion shown for those in need."