20 Years After Hurricane Katrina, Evacuees Reflect On How Chicago Showed Were All In This Together

Chicago marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, celebrating the city's support for evacuees who sought refuge after the disaster. Many displaced individuals recall the generosity and hospitality they received from local residents, which played a crucial role in their recovery. Heidi Breeding, who relocated to Chicago after the storm, described their experience as akin to winning unexpected prizes despite losing everything. Kamaria Gboro emphasized gratitude towards her family for their sacrifices during this tumultuous time. Hurricane Katrina, one of the most destructive natural disasters in U.

S. history, resulted in nearly 1,400 fatalities and the destruction of approximately 300,000 homes. Chicago welcomed over 6,000 displaced individuals shortly after the storm, providing temporary housing through local relief efforts. The Breedings, with pre-existing ties to Chicago, received immediate support from their community, illustrating the city's commitment to helping those in need. This anniversary serves as a poignant reminder of resilience, shared humanity, and the importance of community action in times of crisis.