Public Information Office 210 S. McDonald Street Suite 626 McKinney, Texas 75069 www.collincountytx.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 5, 2005

Fifteen shelters opened in Collin County over Labor Day weekend, efforts of volunteers commended

(McKinney, TX) – Fifteen shelters were opened in Collin County since Friday to assist evacuees from flooding in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The outpouring of volunteerism and community involvement has been overwhelming.

“Churches and cities countywide are to be commended for their tireless efforts,” says Collin County Judge Ron Harris, who visited with both shelter volunteers and evacuees. “Without our community partners and faith-based organizations, such an endeavor could have never been pulled together so quickly.”

“Across Collin County, we have witness a spirit of giving that is second to none,” says Collin County Commissioner Joe Jaynes, who also visited area shelters.

For example, the city of Wylie helped place 40 evacuees into full-time jobs. And, the city of McKinney created a temporary home by remodeling a closed Wal-Mart. The shelter will house more than 250 people.

“I commend President Bush for ordering American Flags to be flown at half-staff,” says Judge Harris. “This is our way of honoring those who died and the families who lost their homes. Our hope is that those who have made their way to North Texas find new, meaningful lives in the aftermath of tragedy.”

Collin County government opened one shelter at Lake Lavon over the weekend. The county has also assisted cities and churches in their endeavors to open shelters.

The Collin County Commissioners Court will meet in a special called session on Friday, September 9th. A future news release will provide additional details.

For a comprehensive list of initiatives and hurricane-related information, please visit the Collin County website, www.collincountytx.gov.

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