The Spirit of Hope Disaster Response Services program at Catholic Charities, re-activated nearly four years ago following the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, has been a lifeline to so many like Robert Green. With the start of hurricane season this month, Robert’s story is a reminder that together we can always rebuild while uplifting each other during some of the hardest times.

Although he’s endured a lot since Hurricane Ida, the reserved Robert often shifts the conversation back to others at Spirit of Hope who have helped him. His humility is a reflection of the spirit of community and recovery that Catholic Charities embodies. Cheryl Strickland was assigned to Robert’s case.

“Ms. Cheryl was my lifesaver. I ran out of options, and I was thinking of going back to Arizona. She’s been an absolute angel since day one. She practically saved my life. I’m humbled and very grateful to know her,” Robert said.

Residing in Ama, Louisiana, just across the Mississippi River from St. Rose in St. Charles Parish, Robert is a Louisiana transplant. He spent many years traveling the globe for his work in oilfields, including Brazil, Egypt, and India.

Robert hunkered down with a friend during Hurricane Ida, returning to find his home destroyed. Due to some restrictions regarding mobile homes, Robert’s options were limited with some organizations.

Spirit of Hope was a means of survival for Robert and many others in his neighborhood, which saw many mobile homes destroyed. Semi-retired due to a back injury, Robert lives on a fixed income, which made his recovery from Ida all that much more imperative.

Under the tenacious eye of Cheryl and Spirit of Hope, Robert eventually was able to purchase the temporary FEMA trailer provided for him. Spirit of Hope worked with the St. Charles Parish Long Term Recovery Group and The Salvation Army to provide funds for the purchase.

“I can’t rest easy until each client is made whole again,” Cheryl said.

“I’ve been in their shoes before, and I know how overwhelming the rebuilding process can be. I’m committed to doing everything in my power to ensure no one has to navigate their challenges alone. It’s the promise of Catholic Charities, the only way I know.”