LULING — As Louisiana begins to brace itself for hurricane season, United Way of St. Charles partnered with Capital One and American

Red Cross to provide hurricane

preparedness bags to senior citizens throughout the River Parishes

during the Capital One Week of Caring.

The Week of Caring was held from May 16 to 20. Employees from Capital One, American Red Cross and United Way of St. Charles visited senior centers in Norco, New Sarpy, Luling and Hahnville to distribute “Emergency Go Kits” to elderly residents throughout St. Charles Parish.

“Go Kits” were also distributed at local Capital One branches in St. Charles and St. John parishes. In total, 1,500 “Go Kits” were distributed in the River Parishes.

Capital One volunteers also provided valuable information and spoke with senior citizens regarding the importance of being prepared for an emergency. The “Go Kits” are lightweight, draw string bags that can store the important items needed for a quick evacuation. These bags can be carried by person or on walkers and wheelchairs.

“It is really gratifying to be able to instruct the elderly on the importance of being prepared. We hope they use the tools we provided so that they can not only survive but thrive during an emergency situation,” said Ray Tyree, Capital One Vice President and River Region Market Manager.