By Cyndi Sellers

In the aftermath of Hurricane Ida’s devastation of southeastern Louisiana, Cameron Parish people who know that pain all too well have stepped up to help their neighbors to the east.

Cameron resident Brian DeBarge started a one-man operation delivering gasoline to affected areas that has grown with local support. He and his family have been filling large tanks with gas and driving to towns like Dulac and Grand Caillou. With the help of generous community donations 200 plate lunches and close to 1000 gallons of gas were distributed in Grand Caillou this week. Each recipient gets 10 gallons for their generators at no charge. DeBarge says he knows what it was like to live on a generator and how hard it is to get fuel. He plans to keep going as long as donations allow.

Several individuals and groups are sending hot meals to various affected parishes. The Cameron Lions Club will be assisting with a meal for the Houma area this weekend, as well as other efforts in the future. A donation drive is planned to benefit several coastal parishes, whose economy and culture are similar to Cameron’s.

Sheriff Ron Jonson has sent deputies to Livingston Parish and raised money for assistance for deputies in other parishes. Chainsaws were sent to Terrebonne Parish, Roofing nails and hammers to Lafourche Parish, and tire plugs kits and extra plugs to both parishes. Donations are still being accepted for the “Deputy to Deputy” assistance program.