Responding to the need for help, Acadiana residents have opened their hearts in a variety of ways. Over 3000 people in the area immediately donated blood when the appeal was heard. Small groups of determined Cajuns, including some off-duty policemen and firefighters, made long journeys in their own vehicles to join with other hard-working volunteers in the relief efforts.
From the tiny community of Meaux (Moe), a trained cadaver dog named In-See and his human partner participated in the dangerous and frustrating search for WTC victims. The canine hero recently returned home to Acadiana with cuts on his paws and no toenails, but his courage inspired cheers from concerned onlookers at Ground Zero.
Remarkably, there were some members of local families who actually survived the WTC and Pentagon attacks. Their eyewitness accounts of horror and destruction have aroused deep sympathy for those whose loved ones were not so fortunate and are still listed as missing.
Cajuns are by nature a generous and caring people. Nearly everyone in south Louisiana is trying to do something, each in his or her own way. At least one "gumbo crew" traveled to New York City with the intent to feed at least 1000 Cajun-style home-cooked meals to workers at the disaster site.
Astounding amounts of money have been collected in a very short time to benefit relief organizations. A local TV station held a quickly-organized telethon which raised over $100,000 for the Red Cross in less than 24 hours. Other people have gathered cash donations in fireman boots; schoolchildren have sacrificed their allowances and snack money; band students gave the proceeds of their previously-scheduled carwash fundraiser to the cause; and the outpouring of generosity continues from even the poorest among the Cajun and Creole population.
As in other parts of the nation, local stores have reported record sales of American flags and clothing in patriotic colors. Large and small versions of the US flag stream from the antennae of many cars and trucks. Red, white, and blue symbols are now proudly displayed on homes, in yards, and at business locations throughout Acadiana. Young and old citizens are wearing small ribbons as visible memorials and symbols of solidarity.
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