Helping people with disabilities live and work in the community.

SAFE HAVEN Funding Secured
Bids for Construction to go out Soon

The Louisiana State Bond Commission approved final funding for SAFE HAVEN at their July 30th meeting.  Now that all funds for construction are secured, OPTIONS will be able to advertise for bids as soon as authorized to do so by the State Office of Facility and Planning.   A bid opening date has not yet been set.  A ground-breaking ceremony is planned with details to be announced in September or October. 

OPTIONS CEO Sylvia Bush praised the action of the legislators, the governor, and the Bond Commission in honoring their commitment to provide funds for a safe and secure hurricane shelter for men and women with disabilities.  “I know this has been a tough year for the state financially, but Governor Bobby Jindal, Chief of Administration Angele Davis, and the entire North Shore legislative delegation recognized the importance of SAFE HAVEN and stood behind it,”  Bush said.  “All of us are very grateful.  I would especially like to thank the many members of the community who sent letters and e-mails about SAFE HAVEN.  It took a united effort to achieve this goal.”  Senator Ben Nevers led the effort to secure funding for SAFE HAVEN.

SAFE HAVEN FAQ

What will SAFE HAVEN include?

• 7,000 square foot building designed to withstand Category 5 hurricane force winds

• handicapped accessible bathrooms and dressing areas, including showers for those who use wheelchairs
• storage areas for cots, food, water, air mattresses, health-care products, and other hurricane supplies
• dual gas generators designed to provide power for air conditioning (which is necessary for individuals with medical issues) and for kitchen and laundry facilities to maintain health and sanitation

• gas kitchen for heating food that is healthy and meets the dietary needs of those individuals who cannot tolerate salt, sugar, and/or preservatives

Why not evacuate?

OPTIONS staff and volunteer Board of Directors believe strongly that SAFE HAVEN can meet the needs of individuals with disabilities, especially those with multiple disabilities and/or medical issues, in a safe and secure shelter in a familiar area.

What has been the regional impact on OPTIONS since Hurricane Katrina?

Due to the close proximity to Orleans and St. Bernard parishes, many families are choosing to relocate to Tangipahoa Parish.  The population of Tangipahoa Parish has grown about 26% since Hurricane Katrina.  In addition, plans to close the Metropolitan Developmental Center in Belle Chase will result in an additional need for services in this area. 

SAFE HAVEN will provide services for individuals with disabilities who were displaced by Hurricane Katrina as well as providing a shelter that is handicapped accessible for individuals with multiple disabilities.

What will the building be for when not being used as a shelter?

SAFE HAVEN is a most cost-effective project because it will also be used on a daily basis as a vocational training facility to help people acquire the skills they need to be productive citizens.  The expanded Vocational Training Center will meet the needs of the increased population of those with developmental disabilities in this area.

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19362 West Shelton Road, Hammond, LA 70401

       Phone: (985) 345-6269  Fax: (985) 345-0297