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Oak. Pastors Call On Community To Help

Saturday, September 10, 2005

Sept. 10 (KGO) -- Several Oakland pastors called on the community to raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims. On Saturday, a lot of good people answered that call.

The need remains great among Hurricane Katrina's victims; a need that many African-American people who live in Oakland and Richmond understand first-hand from their roots in the south.

Dr. J. Alfred smith, Allen Temple Baptist Church: "In our church, I have one woman who has lost 25 people. Twenty-five of her relatives are dead."

Alive is the only word to describe Saturday's community prayer and benefit.

David Kitely, Shiloh Christian Fellowship: "For our brothers and sisters 2,500 miles from here who are looking to the church, looking to God's people to rise up and be one."

Although attendance fell considerably short of the 18,000-seat capacity, people wrote their checks.

Ygnacio de la Fuente, Oakland city council member: "It is our responsibility as human beings and brothers and sisters. Is no choice. This is what we're suppose to do."

Mayor Jerry Brown donated $5,000. But in a city where many residents are struggling too, being generous takes many forms.

Pastor Brondon Reems, Center of Hope Community Church: "A lot of people are sharing what they do have. Everyone is not giving financial gifts. Some are shopping, buying extra things."

Shantonda Yarbrough, hurricane victim: "Thank you, thank you, thank you. Thank you very much. God is good."

Shantonda Yarbrough spent six days surrounded by floodwaters until rescuers found her family. Now she's living in Richmond with relatives.

Shantonda Yarbrough, hurricane victim: "Words can't even explain how I feel. I know there are generous people out here that are going to help us out."

Some remain angry about the government's response to hurricane victims.

Larry Reid, Oakland city council member: "As I turn on the TV this morning, the bodies that I see that were dead look like you and me."

Others say this is not a time to point fingers, but to extend a hand and praise the human heart - like one small, but courageous survivor.

Child, name withheld: "Grandma, her children and I try to take good care of my grandma, 'cause I love her."

In the South Bay, relief efforts focused on baking and buying. The Parents Club of Menlo Park and Palo Alto organized a bake sale in the parking lot of Trader Joes. When organizers last did this for tsunami relief they raised $9,000. They doubled that figure Saturday, raising over $18,000.

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