Federation issues statement on Tropical Storm Issac

In a release sent out on Sunday night Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans executive director Michael Weil announced plans to prepare for the expected landfall of what is expected to be Hurricane Issac on Wednesday morning. Weil reminded members of the Jewish community that a mandatory evacuation has not been issued yet by city officials. He urged residents to continue to make plans for evacuation, if necessary, should city officials make that call and to note updated contraflow instructions and shelters. Weil reiterated that the Federation is not responsible for the personal evacuations of individuals and cautioned that Camp Henry S. Jacobs (last used as a refuge of last resort during Hurricane Gustav in 2008) may not be available, depending on the path of the storm.

Should a mandatory evacuation be issued by New Orleans and Jefferson Parish officials, the Federation will close down its offices immediately. Current plans are for the offices to close on Tuesday and Wednesday along with the New Orleans Jewish Day School and the JCC. A toll free number to receive information from Federation is available by dialing 1-800-510-8133. This number will not be able to receive messages.  Weil urged residents who desire to contact Federation to utilize their web site for updates and the “Contact Us” link or to send emails directly to either jfgno1@gmail.com or emergency@jewishnola.com.

He also advised that a notification would be sent out should Federation be required to relocate its offices.