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So Happy I Could Fry
Originally from Natchez, Mississippi, Willie Washington moved to Hancock County to be close to his family.
When Hurricane Katrina threatened, he chose to stay behind with family members who had weathered tough storms before.
It was a terrifying experience.
The apartments where he had been living were totally destroyed, and he lost all his possessions. |
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For nearly two years, Willie and his 17 year-old daughter lived together in a FEMA trailer. Now, they are renting a house from a friend.
Willie has a lung disorder that prevents him from doing prolonged work or heavy lifting. His income is derived from medical disability payments, supplemented with an occasional painting job.
He and his daughter are delighted to have the opportunity to work with SEI volunteers to build their house. “God bless you and thank-you!” he exclaims enthusiastically.
“I wish I could go catch a bunch of bream for you and have a big fish fry before you leave!” (Willie loves to fish; actually, most folks down here love to fish.)
(Willie and his daughter moved into their new Habitat house in December, 2008. Yes, he did treat the volunteers to a fish fry. And it was good!) |
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