Kids can enjoy Sweet Dreams this Hurricane Season

They'll be Masters of Disaster and Prepared with Pillowcases 

The Brees Dream Foundation and United Way of Southeast Louisiana have huddled for one more big play. The two teamed up for the Be The Next One fundraising campaign to help in the long-term recovery for those impacted by Hurricane Isaac in August 2012.

Today Brittany and Drew Brees matched a gift from the Brees Dream Foundation to a $75,000 donation from Chairman and CEO of LATTER & BLUM Companies, Robert W. Merrick, on behalf of United Way-reaching the goal of $1million set for Be The Next One. 

United Way of Southeast Louisiana President/CEO Michael Williamson said "This final $150,000 donation will be used to fund two American Red Cross disaster preparedness programs for 2400 kindergarten through 8th grade students in St. John the Baptist Parish Public Schools. St. John was one of the parishes hardest hit by Hurricane Isaac."

Whether children have personally experienced trauma or have seen the event on television or heard it discussed by adults, they struggle to make sense of what they are seeing and hearing.

"I've been a lifelong supporter of United Way and the Red Cross", said Merrick. "I am so excited to present this check to Drew Brees and his Brees Dream Foundation. We all care about kids and our community. Our collective investment will help children better understand and prepare for hurricanes and other disasters."

Through The Pillowcase Project, students learn about the science of hazards, emergency preparedness, coping skills and the importance of sharing their knowledge with friends and family. American Red Cross Southeast Louisiana Chapter CEO Kay Wilkins created the program. She said "It teaches children how to create their own emergency supply kits by packing essential items in a pillowcase. Pillowcases are easy to transport during an emergency and can be decorated and personalized."

Merrick, Williamson and United Way's Board of Trustees Chair Joseph Exnicios, President of Whitney Bank along with Red Cross local chapter Board Chair Gary Lorio, Whitney Bank regional president for the New Orleans area, gave Brees pillowcases embroidered with the names of his children.

"Brittany and I believe in giving back," said Drew Brees. "I'm proud the Brees Dream Foundation is part of this collaborative effort. As a father of four young kids, I know disasters such as hurricanes can leave them feeling confused and scared. These pillowcases will help my children and hundreds others."

Masters of Disaster contains lessons, activities, and demonstrations that can further reduce children's anxiety about unknown aspects of disasters and tragic events. Lessons are enjoyable and interactive, ensuring that everyone is having fun while learning important life skills through building capabilities in Mathematics, Language Arts, Social Studies, and Science.

 "Children will also gain confidence to deal successfully with life's unexpected turns through this program," added Exnicios. 

 "The education on essential preparedness skills they receive will carry them through life," echoed Lorio.

The Louisiana Governor's Office of Homeland Security reported nearly 60,000 homes were damaged by Hurricane Isaac and thousands of people were impacted. Long-term recovery and rebuilding will take many years, millions of dollars and more than just brick and mortar. United Way and the Brees Dream Foundation through the Be The Next One campaign has provided funding for food, clothing, counseling and other services to make people whole.