NPR's Wade Goodwyn reports on the impact of New Orleans refugees on Houston, and what may be coming next. Scary topic; good report.
Up to now, the vast majority of the Katrina evacuees in Houston have been supported by money from the federal government. In addition to rent money, the government has extended Medicaid coverage. For many evacuees, it's the first time they've ever had health insurance. But the clock is ticking on these benefits.Posted by Alan at August 30, 2006 12:20 PMBeginning Aug. 31, the first 5,000 households of Katrina evacuees in Houston are scheduled to lose their FEMA assistance. An additional 20,000 families are scheduled to lose their checks Oct. 31. All evacuees lose their FEMA benefits by February, one way or the other.
Houston's political, business and religious leaders are worried about what is going to happen afterward.
The first chapter of the Katrina evacuees' story in Houston is a tale of generosity, brilliant organizing and inspired local government. But the city is about to turn the page. The second chapter of the Louisiana diaspora and the great Texas city is likely to be a much darker drama.