I was surprised to learn last week that one property we have had on our radar for several months is 100% wetlands. The initial survey reported the property was 30% wetland; however, the full survey reports it is entirely wetland. Therefore, we continue our search. Frustrating, yes, but the property we select is perhaps the most important piece of our 100 year plan for the southeast Louisiana region. The land we choose will last so much longer than what we build. Consequently, location, flood risk, percentage of wet lands, accessibility to the community, and future growth around the property are all important considerations.

We have met with the St. Tammany Parish Department of Development regarding zoning issues. They, like all the staff of St. Tammany Parish, have been extremely helpful.

Some have asked, “If I make a donation to the Home will it be used for Ruston or for the new Home in the New Orleans district.” The answer is this, “Donations are always used for the purpose a donor designates.” Any donation we receive is used according to the donor’s desire. You may direct your gift directly to Methodist Children’s Home of Greater New Orleans, by writing, “MCHGNO Campaign”, on the memo line of your donation check. You may also designate a donation online.

Finally, I will end with some exciting news!

I am pleased to report Methodist Children’s Home of Greater New Orleans is opening a 6-bed unit for boys who are 10 and younger. Methodist Children’s Home of Greater New Orleans will become the only program in Louisiana designed to care for these younger boys in an intensive residential treatment facility. Some of these boys have been placed in facilities in other states away from their families. The services we will provide will bring these boys Home.

Also, in early 2014, we will fund a new Family Plus therapist who will work with families in New Orleans. We simply cannot wait until our Home is complete before we begin launching home and community-based services in New Orleans.

So, in summary, our property search continues as we expand our efforts to minister to children and families in the New Orleans district.

Thank you for your continued prayers and your support!