September 9, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today encouraged Michigan citizens and religious organizations to observe the National Day of Prayer on Friday, September 16, to honor the victims of Hurricane Katrina.  The President declared the National Day of Prayer in a proclamation yesterday.  

“For more than a week, we in Michigan have joined together to open our hearts, our wallets, and our communities to support our brothers and sisters in the Gulf region,” Granholm said.  “Next Friday, we will offer prayers for the victims of Hurricane Katrina and for the thousands of relief workers who are coming to their aid.”

Michigan has been a leader in the nation’s relief effort, offering to provide temporary or transitional housing for up to 10,000 evacuees from the Gulf states.  Granholm partnered with the Michigan Association of Broadcasters to sponsor a statewide Michigan Cares, Michigan Gives fundraiser on radio and television stations for the American Red Cross.  Granholm also established the Michigan Hurricane Helpline to coordinate the influx of donations from across the state.