People's hearts are going out to the victims of Hurricane Katrina and nearly everyone wants to know how they can help. While large organizations such as the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army are providing the most support, local organizations and schools are mounting efforts to provide support, as are the Georgia Department of Human Resources and its Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS).

Among the local efforts, the Optimist Club of Peachtree City is looking into donating some of the food that it collects throughout the year. The Fayette County High School football team is one of several organizations within the school that is beginning to raise money and ask about specific needs for the people in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School held a school-wide Mass yesterday for those who have died and those whose lives have been affected, as well as for relief efforts. There will also be a prayer service next Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. The school is also responding by having dress-down days, bake sales, candy sales and more to raise funds for relief services through Catholic Charities. Father Paul Burke, the school's chaplain, has also stated that the school is encouraging students to sacrifice something to show solidarity with the suffering.

"As time goes on, more will be done," Burke said. "Like everyone, we are waiting to see how best we can serve."

State Superintendent of Schools Kathy Cox has also pledged help from the state's Department of Education.

"Children who have been evacuated from their homes and are being sheltered in Georgia are our responsibility. Should it become necessary, their education can and will continue in Georgia's schools," said Cox. "We will work with local systems to make sure these students are enrolled and begin attending classes as quickly as possible. Also, we will work with our neighboring states to make sure the transition is as smooth as it can be."

The Peachtree City Civil Air Patrol Falcon Field Composite Squadron, Civil Air Patrol, U. S. Air Force Auxiliary has had seven of their 30 senior members volunteer their assistance in relief efforts, should they be needed. Three of the members have medical skills, including one doctor, one registered nurse and one physical therapist. One member has volunteered to serve as a ground search team member and three members are part of an air crew team that can take digital pictures of an area and link them