After completion and dedication of a new house for Bessie Cates’ in Moss Point, MS, our church has been raising money for a second house to benefit those who are still in need because of Hurricane Katrina. The United Methodist Katrina relief agency has identified the candidate for the second house as Ms. Trina Fritz, a 42-year old single mother with a 15-year old daughter.

Ms. Fritz, who works at a cabinet shop to support her family, had been living in their home for 25 years with her mother and father at the time of the storm. They evacuated prior to the storm to ensure the safety of the mother who is 72 and blind. The house, located near the Pascagoula River, suffered severe damage from the 9-10 feet of water during the hurricane along with major wind damage; the family could not return after the storm and ultimately the city deemed the house unsafe to live in.

The family is presently living with other relatives. Since the disaster Ms. Fritz’s father has died. Ms. Fritz has applied for governmental funds and has received some FEMA funds to help with the cost of living. The city has now condemned the house and the Methodist construction coordinator has agreed with that decision. A new house is the most economical way to provide permanent housing for Trina and her family. The Methodist Katrina Agency is recommending a new three-bedroom house with handicap access to be built.

With generosity from our church members and friends we will be able to provide this house for Trina. The cost is expected to be around $42,000 and we have already raised more than one-third. When men from our church go to Mississippi in November they will be doing the complete framing of that new house.

If you would like to help, please make checks payable to First UMC Crystal Lake and mark Mississippi House in the memo line.

If you have any questions please email Bob Riepl, or contact by phone at 815-455-4474.