Edwards Continues Poverty Tour

Today, John Edwards is out in New Orleans as part of his “Road to One America” tour, drawing attention to the 37 million Americans who are living in poverty.  After participating in a Good Morning America Town Hall this morning, John made his way to Kingsley House.  

You can keep up with the “Road to One America” by texting “TOUR” to 30644.

Since 2005, Kingsley House has stepped up as a saving grace to thousands of families who were victim to the destruction of Hurricane Katrina.   Kingsley House serves as an essential resettlement and recovery center for thousands in Southeastern Louisiana.  Kingsley House’s commitment was demonstrated by the staff of Kingsley House, including, Dr. Keith Liederman, their executive director who led John and Elizabeth on a tour through the facilities.  

John Davis, the senator’s traveling body man, writes in from the road:

“Over and over we have heard stories of folks getting caught up in red tape. Much of the city looks exactly as it did immediately following Katrina. The level of frustration among the residents is incredible but the commitment to the community is amazing.”

Following their visit to Kingsley House, John and Elizabeth stopped at Café Reconcile where they met with dozens of young people who are part of their training program for at-risk youth.   Since their founding, Café Reconcile has trained hundreds of young people between the ages of 16 and 25 to learn basic life, interpersonal and work skills to prepare them to enter the work force.  After Hurricane Katrina made landfall their mission shifted to include the challenges of the rebuilding and recovery.  They are determined to continue on their mission in the wake of Katrina.

Here are some links from the Tour:

• Behind the Scenes: The GMA Town Hall
• Video: The Lower 9th Ward
• Walking in the Lower Ninth Ward
• Rebuilding New Orleans Starts in New Orleans

-Team Edwards