Disney To Accommodate Hurricane Evacuees

[klwdisney]

I just got off the phone with a VERY helpful Disney Cast Member with whom I made some arrangements for our upcoming trip to WDW. During our conversation, she informed me that Disney Resorts will be accommodating victims of Hurricane Katrina.

At the moment they have not been told what hotels will be utilized or how long the victims will be staying but they were told it would be a LARGE number and would affect a wide range of resorts - not just value resorts.

I wanted to make sure everyone with an upcoming trip planned was aware of this influx of guests as it will surely affect such things as food court and pool crowds, along with the very slight possibility of affecting park crowds. So please plan accordingly. And since we're sheltering a number of victims all the way up here in Massachusetts (at Otis AFB and Camp Edwards), I'm glad to see that Disney is sheltering victims also - so much closer to their homes/families/friends, etc. :grouphug:

[minnie61650]

I just got off the phone with a VERY helpful Disney Cast Member with whom I made some arrangements for our upcoming trip to WDW. During our conversation, she informed me that Disney Resorts will be accommodating victims of Hurricane Katrina.

At the moment they have not been told what hotels will be utilized or how long the victims will be staying but they were told it would be a LARGE number and would affect a wide range of resorts - not just value resorts.

I wanted to make sure everyone with an upcoming trip planned was aware of this influx of guests as it will surely affect such things as food court and pool crowds, along with the very slight possibility of affecting park crowds. So please plan accordingly. And since we're sheltering a number of victims all the way up here in Massachusetts (at Otis AFB and Camp Edwards), I'm glad to see that Disney is sheltering victims also - so much closer to their homes/families/friends, etc. :grouphug:

That is wonderful news. I am glad Disney will be helping some of the victims from Hurricare Katrina. I appuld Disney for helping so many. Disney donated 2 1/2 million dollards and is also offering shelter for many who need it. :wizard:and :grouphug:
Linda ::MinnieMo

[WDWRC]

Yes, Disney is giving some families vouchers for a two week stay with dining vouchers in the Value Resorts.

Tracy

[spiceycat]

probably some of the DVC resorts - although technology those rooms belong to members - with the kitchens they would be nice.

I can see FW too - again because of the kitchens.

several places in Ala have shelters.

the army depost in Anniston that got closed a several years ago - is one of the places that is being reopened - 1,000 people (don't how many families) can stay there.

Ala state parks are also being used to help these people. the FEMA is surpose to be bringing in manufacture housing. they are also will be staying in the cabins and hotels that the state owns.

the school here have already taken in several of the kids. the colleges are doing it too.

the schools are also providing everything the kids need (except their old friends).

the red cross shelter will stay open but who wants to live out of a shelter.

I would want my OWN room, it not a kitchen.

many of them are saying they want to stay in Ala. they feel hurt and betrayed by the state and federal.

[StrwLady]

I just called CRO and asked about this. My family is going next week and was hoping to find a way to bring my cousin and his kids. He is now staying in the Dallas area because of the hurricane. And if we could swing it we would love to have them at Disney with us. I was transfered by to guest services and was told all they were offering to hurricane evacuees was discounted room based on availablity. I was told the All Star Music would be $59 a night.

[StrwLady]

Yes, Disney is giving some families vouchers for a two week stay with dining vouchers in the Value Resorts.

Tracy


Tracy where did you hear this. When I called I was told all they were offering was discounted rooms.

Thanks
Jamie

[seashoreCM]

Giving free resort rooms to evacuees for several months would be a huge injustice -- to the other evacuees in other cities who were only given gymnasium style accommodations.

Perhaps operating their normal gymnasium style shelters for a year or so(Disney is an official hurrican shelter for the region) would be a very generous contribution.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm

[daisy_77]

I think that is wonderful that Disney is doing what they can to help out the unfortunate souls who have nowhere to go.

[my3kids]

On our news tonight they started out saying Virginia was getting 1000 refugees and they were looking for private homes to host them. Then they said update...2000. A few minutes later they said just off the phone with the governor's office and 4000 guests were coming and they need private homes to host them.

Good for Disney to open up some rooms. In a time when a lot of landlords are price gouging, how nice to see someone stepping up to the plate to offer a meaningful donation.

[Skroops]

That would be cool if WDW opened some rooms to the hurricane victims. I'd like to see them do it for FREE and not for $59 a night. Although some of the insurance companies cover hotel expenses...
It would be cool to have a fund to help families get park passes and dinners out etc. once they are at WDW.
I can't fault WDW if they charge for their rooms, because they already gave generously.
Our news in the Twin Cities is that up to 5000 Katrina victims will be arriving by air this week and staying at Camp Ripley base for 45 days. Then they are looking for people throughout MN to help house the families. Just in time for winter. Man, they are really getting a raw deal. (Don't get me wrong, it's a really nice place to live...I live here, :flower:but it's cold!!!) :banana:

[Princess Mommy]

I called CRO about this aswell... the CM I spoke with didn't know of any such discount or free program for hurricane victims. :(

[Sinderelli]

I am currently in San Antonio, TX because of Hurricane Katrina damage in my hometown of Kenner, La (a suburb of New Orleans). Thankfully, we did not have a catastrophic loss like some people did, but for the time being our house is uninhabitable. I have a vacation planned Feb 25-Mar 2 at CBR and then a 3 night Wonder cruise Mar 2-5. Here is my dilemma: my husband has already started talking about cancelling our Disney trip. I cry when I even think about cancelling it after all of our planning! My DS6 and DD2 talk about the trip almost every day! How can I convince my DH that we really NEED this trip...mostly for our kids who have been absolutely wonderful in this time of uncertainty. They have adjusted amazingly well, as kids usually do. How long are room rates discounted for those impacted by the hurricane...wouldn't it be great if it extended to trips already reserved??!!

[ironz]

Sinderelli...
best wishes to you...I used to live in River Ridge, several years ago...was there for the big flood in 1995(?) and that was plenty scary. I can only imagine how tough it is for you all. Good luck with everything!

And a thought...since maybe right now you can't get back in your house, etc? Wonder if it would make any sense to do your Disney trip earlier (like soon) rather than later? Forgive me, if that sounds insensitive in light of the disaster...but maybe that would be making some lemonade out of the lemons if you are not in the position to return home or to work yet?

hugs....

[tkldisney]

Per national news Disney donated 2.5 million to relief for hurricane victims! I'd be surprised if they donated free rooms in WDW well. What about rooms in DL too?
Hopefully, lots of other businesses will contribute too. Noticed lots of actors are doing & donating as well. It's great to see them helping out!

It's been a confusing start, but we live in a great country! :flower:

[GalDisney]

I think it would be great for Disney to give free hotel room, food vouchers and park admission to evacuees. However, I highly doubt Disney would offer their hotels as places for the evacuees to live for a month or longer. WDW is a vacation destination expensive and not a place to live indefinately. WDW hotels are not a place house evacuees for an idefinate amount of time. Dont flame me. I feel for these people too. I could very easily be in their place. I would offer up my home to a family of evacuees if i had more than a 1 bedroom apt.

[GalDisney]

I think it is great the WDW is offering 2.5 million to the relief efforts. But i am wondering why the arent offering more?? Wal Mart offered 15 million. Disney is a classier operation than Wal Mart and I am sure they could donate more.

[Jpgirl]

Sinderelli
My heart and prayers are with you and everyone. I'm thinking your family sounds like mine. In times of crisis my dh always tries to reduce and conserve-especially financially as he gets stressed out over money because he's the provider. Meanwhile I'm like you and try to concentrate on anything positive( a trip to WDW would do it for me) to get me through. I'd say to hold off on cancelling or making any decisions about ANYTHING until you all have time to process. I know I've made some quick decisions and then regretted it. I'll bet things will look up in 2 months or so and y'all will be able to cope better. By the way-Welcome to Texas-although we'd rather welcome you under better circumstances. Good luck and God Speed :grouphug:

[DiscussDisney]

I think it is great the WDW is offering 2.5 million to the relief efforts. But i am wondering why the arent offering more?? Wal Mart offered 15 million. Disney is a classier operation than Wal Mart and I am sure they could donate more.

I think Walmart's earnings are just under 3 billion dollars while Disney's earnings are around 800 million. That is probably one of the reasons why Walmart is able to give much more.

[Snurk71]

I think it is great the WDW is offering 2.5 million to the relief efforts. But i am wondering why the arent offering more?? Wal Mart offered 15 million. Disney is a classier operation than Wal Mart and I am sure they could donate more.

You might want to do a little reseach on the size of the two companies and Wal Mart's philanthropical supports before making that statement. For example, do you know how much Wal Mart donates to the Children's Miracle Network every year?

[stenogoddess]

Sinderelli: Hang in there! I think maybe your DH is doing the, times are hard, got to conserve thing. I do that too. I think a disney trip would be just what you need to help you take some time for the family where you don't have to think about the hard things 24/7 but can spend some fun bonding time together. I hope you convine him. Good luck to you and your family! :wizard:

[peter11435]

You might want to do a little reseach on the size of the two companies and Wal Mart's philanthropical supports before making that statement. For example, do you know how much Wal Mart donates to the Children's Miracle Network every year?
While Walmart is the bigger company. Disney is just as big when it comes to their philanthropical supports, if you do some research you will see what I mean.

Also to the person who mentioned the two companies earnings. In 2004 Disney's earnings were about 4.5 billion. While Walmarts 2004 earnings were about 9 billion.

[ToyStory]

This is from the Disney Insider that I just recevied a few minutes ago via email:

"In response to this unprecedented crisis, on Thursday, August 31, The Walt Disney Company announced that it would donate $2.5 million to aid relief and recovery efforts in the wake of Katrina. Of that money, $1 million will go to the American Red Cross for immediate relief efforts, another $1 million will go to rebuilding efforts targeted at children's charities, and the remaining $500,000 will be directed to volunteer centers providing services to the affected communities."

[henrylovespooh]

Sinderelli,

You might try telling your husband that the trip is for the kids and that they need to have something to look forward to at this time. I'm sure your husband is thinking about the financial strains caused by your home being damaged. I agree with the other poster who suggested going earlier, like in the next month or so, to lighten your children's hearts and souls.

[Sinderelli]

Thanks, everyone, for your kind words. I jokingly asked my DH if we could evacuate to Disney when we first left but he did not take it seriously! Everything is up in the air right now...tomorrow I will find out the status of my job as a 1st grade teacher in a Catholic school. Then I will have to figure out what to do with my DS's schooling. What a mess! There are so many people who lost so much...we are extremely fortunate. My husband's aunt lives in San Antonio and her friend is out of the country for 3 months. She has generously given us the use of her apartment while she is gone. People are amazing in tough times, aren't they? My MIL is with us and the first thing she told me was that I HAD to cancel our Disney vacation. As you can imagine, I immediately became defensive and am not even talking about the vacation right now to give everyone time to calm down. My DD2 keeps telling me she wants to go on the "Mickey boat" and I am going to make sure she gets to! This tragedy has reinforced for me the importance of all of us being together and being safe. Our family vacations are always amazing times...I am sure my DH will come around. He is definitely the conservative one where as I am the more impulsive one. It's a pretty good balance!

[SugarMomma]

Sinderelli,
First of all my heart goes out to all of the victims of the Hurricane. I wish you and your family the best of luck and I hope you see a rainbow in your life soon. I think you should give your husband a little time to digest all that has happend. Maybe when he can see the light at the end of the tunnel he will change his mind. I cant think of a better thing for your family to do. Good luck to you and your family and friends. :cheer2:

[Forever a Princess]

Sinderelli,

My heart goes out to you. I wish you the best. Sending lots of Pixie Dust your way.

My take would be not to cancel your trip.

By keeping your plans for your trip you take HOPE that everything is going to be ok. That the money will come from somewhere. God always provides. It gives you something to look forward to while you put together the pieces of your life.
It gives you dedicated time to be a family without the hustle and bustle of daily life, a time to shut out the outside world and leave the problems behind.

Whichever you and your DH decide, take the trip as planned or reschedule to a time that is right for you.

But please do take the trip to Disney. Take time for the important thing-quality time together.

Renee

[PIRATEGIRL007]

If you are shocked at the amount disney gave in comparision to Wal-Mart, you would absoloutly croak and what some others have (or more less didn't) give. I personally know of 1 Fortune 500 company that is higher than 40 that only gave 10% of what Disney did. I personally will try to limit mu business with companies that don't have the heart to provide to people in this great time of need.

[Acklander]

I think it is great the WDW is offering 2.5 million to the relief efforts. But i am wondering why the arent offering more?? Wal Mart offered 15 million. Disney is a classier operation than Wal Mart and I am sure they could donate more.

The 2.5 million that they donated is in addition to all the other generous donations that Disney makes. If they donated more to the hurricane, it might mean less going to make a wish or one of the other charities.

[GalDisney]

Actually one of my friends mentioned that no corporations or any donations for anyome should be necessary from this catastrophe.. The US Govt, being the richest nation in the worlds, should have the resources to take care of its people without help from others. And I have to agree with that statement.

[Danthesand]

probably some of the DVC resorts - although technology (SIC) those rooms belong to members - with the kitchens they would be nice.


Don't bet on that - because of the Food and Wine fesitival, fall is the one the highest booking periods for the DVC resorts, and starting 9/30 most will be packed with members and will stay that way until the festival ends in mid November. Disney isn't going even think about trying to "kick" those members -- their most profitable clientele -- out of real estate they own.

And on that track, Carnival Cruise line annnounced yesterday that it has cancelled plans to offer three of its older ships (which are currently off the coast of Texas) as evacuee housing. The primary reason? Evacuees in Houston were refusing to move to them. As one I saw interviewed on TV put it, "the last thing I want to see out of a window now is water."

Actually one of my friends mentioned that no corporations or any donations for anyome should be necessary from this catastrophe.. The US Govt, being the richest nation in the worlds, should have the resources to take care of its people without help from others. And I have to agree with that statement.

And I have to politely but strongly disagree. There is nothing in the Constitution that guarantees citizens housing, food and health after weather disasters, and thank heaven private industry and citizens are stepping in to help. :grouphug:

[Danthesand]

If you are shocked at the amount disney gave in comparision to Wal-Mart, you would absoloutly croak and what some others have (or more less didn't) give. I personally know of 1 Fortune 500 company that is higher than 40 that only gave 10% of what Disney did. I personally will try to limit mu business with companies that don't have the heart to provide to people in this great time of need.

O.K., if we're (unfortunately) getting into the bragging rights thing here, the Fortune 100 company I work for (which in terms of assets is approximately 1/12 the size of Disney) has already given almost $2 million to the Red Cross. So on a % basis, we're making Disney look cheap.

[Snurk71]

While Walmart is the bigger company. Disney is just as big when it comes to their philanthropical supports, if you do some research you will see what I mean.

Also to the person who mentioned the two companies earnings. In 2004 Disney's earnings were about 4.5 billion. While Walmarts 2004 earnings were about 9 billion.

I wasn't discounting Disney's charitable contributions. I was responding to the poster kind of taking a shot at Walmart (Disney is better than Walmart). I have no affiliation with Walmart, but you can't take a swipe at their chartiable efforts - they're a very charitable organization (I think the answer to their CMN contribution is at least $40M every year).

For those interested in numbers...

Last 12 months Sales
WMT - 298.5B
DIS - 31.8B

Last 12 months earnings
WMT - 10.7B
DIS - 2.8B

Market Capitalization
WMT - 190B
DIS - 50B

Employees
WMT - 2M
DIS - 129K

So by most marks, Walmart is at least 5-10 times larger of an organization than Disney.

[*Fantasia*]

Why is this thread sounds like turning into a debate? Let's just be thankful that these wonderful big companies have donated a huge amount of money. Who cares how much these companies have made. It's not so much about how much they have donated... it's their caring thoughts and they want to help. "They have more money than this company... and why are they not giving as much... and...this one is richer and..." FORGET IT! Let's just hope and pray that everything will be back to normal and that they will find their lost loved ones.

[Acklander]

Actually one of my friends mentioned that no corporations or any donations for anyome should be necessary from this catastrophe.. The US Govt, being the richest nation in the worlds, should have the resources to take care of its people without help from others. And I have to agree with that statement.


I'd have to disagree with this - The US goverment is currently financing two wars, and is pretty well tapped out. America has been running a deficit for quite a while now, so any donations from citizens and corporations will reduce the amount needed in tax raises.

[peter11435]

I wasn't discounting Disney's charitable contributions. I was responding to the poster kind of taking a shot at Walmart (Disney is better than Walmart). I have no affiliation with Walmart, but you can't take a swipe at their chartiable efforts - they're a very charitable organization (I think the answer to their CMN contribution is at least $40M every year).

For those interested in numbers...

Last 12 months Sales
WMT - 298.5B
DIS - 31.8B

Last 12 months earnings
WMT - 10.7B
DIS - 2.8B

Market Capitalization
WMT - 190B
DIS - 50B

Employees
WMT - 2M
DIS - 129K

So by most marks, Walmart is at least 5-10 times larger of an organization than Disney.
I don't know where you are getting those numbers. My numbers came directly from the companies Annual Reports.

[peter11435]

O.K., if we're (unfortunately) getting into the bragging rights thing here, the Fortune 100 company I work for (which in terms of assets is approximately 1/12 the size of Disney) has already given almost $2 million to the Red Cross. So on a % basis, we're making Disney look cheap.
Yeah, but how much has your company done outside of this hurricane. Disney donates to tons of charities. They operate the Disney Hand organization offering volunteers and others needs. They donate millions to many charities, and donate tons of goods and services including over 2 Billion gallons of water a year, and millions of books, video, toys and games to childrens hospitals around the world. Disney is also the largest corporate donor to the Ronal McDonald House, yes even bigger than McDonalds itself. I could go on but it would take all day.

[tigerlilly]

Quote by Fantasia:

Why is this thread sounds like turning into a debate? Let's just be thankful that these wonderful big companies have donated a huge amount of money. Who cares how much these companies have made. It's not so much about how much they have donated... it's their caring thoughts and they want to help. "They have more money than this company... and why are they not giving as much... and...this one is richer and..." FORGET IT! Let's just hope and pray that everything will be back to normal and that they will find their lost loved ones.

****AMEN! It is amazing to me that so much out of this disaster has turned into a debate and pointing fingers and on and on (I am talking on a national scale not this thread in particular :)). For goodness sakes we have just gone thru possibly our nations worst natural disaster. People have died, lost loved ones, lost homes and everything they own. 500,000 people are displaced from everything they know and hold dear. We should be grateful we live in a place where not only the government can help but also private companies are able to help.

[LakeAriel]

And I have to politely but strongly disagree. There is nothing in the Constitution that guarantees citizens housing, food and health after weather disasters, and thank heaven private industry and citizens are stepping in to help.

Right, only if we attack and level your country then we will provide housing, food and health. What a thing to say! Almost as bad as what Barbara Bush said!

Give till it hurts Redcross, Salvation Army, SPCA, etc
GIVE BLOOD!!!!!!

[O2BNWDW]

Why is this thread sounds like turning into a debate? Let's just be thankful that these wonderful big companies have donated a huge amount of money. Who cares how much these companies have made. It's not so much about how much they have donated... it's their caring thoughts and they want to help. "They have more money than this company... and why are they not giving as much... and...this one is richer and..." FORGET IT! Let's just hope and pray that everything will be back to normal and that they will find their lost loved ones.

Thank you *Fantasia*!

[Jen D]

I'm not debating one way or the other but I want to point out it is appropriate and unsurprising that Wal-Mart would step up, as thousands of their employees were affected by this tragedy... I think at one point 40 stores were closed. And a huge amount of their customer base too. They are giving back to communities that have made them a lot of money over the years.

[Danthesand]

Yeah, but how much has your company done outside of this hurricane.

It didn't take a hurricane to wake up my employer to philanthropy.

Our foundation make grants to non profits. Amounts? Last year, over $36 million. Pray tell, how much did Disney give?

We have offices in every state in the country, with a national staff of over 11,000. Last year, per our matching gift tracking, that staff donated almost $16 million to various organizations. Pray tell, how much did Disney employees give?

That staff also gave their time as volunteers (in programs we run) at the local community level (to schools, hospitals, etc.) We don't know exactly how much time, but the division that runs that program says there are over 6,000 volunteers doing work for these organizations on a weekly basis. Pray tell, how much did time did Disney employees volunteer?

So we can go on here all day about Disney's philanthropy?

Pray tell, please do!!! :smooth:

[Snurk71]

I don't know where you are getting those numbers. My numbers came directly from the companies Annual Reports.

My numbers are last twelve months, which will not necessarily correspond to the last annual report (WMT is through 4/30, Dis through 7/2). The numbers shouldn't be that far off from the last annual report though (maybe the income number because of misc accounting needs).

Check MSM Money, Ameritrade, Smith Barney, etc. They're all matching up with the numbers I quoted.

[Snurk71]

It didn't take a hurricane to wake up my employer to philanthropy.

Our foundation make grants to non profits. Amounts? Last year, over $36 million. Pray tell, how much did Disney give?

We have offices in every state in the country, with a national staff of over 11,000. Last year, per our matching gift tracking, that staff donated almost $16 million to various organizations. Pray tell, how much did Disney employees give?

That staff also gave their time as volunteers (in programs we run) at the local community level (to schools, hospitals, etc.) We don't know exactly how much time, but the division that runs that program says there are over 6,000 volunteers doing work for these organizations on a weekly basis. Pray tell, how much did time did Disney employees volunteer?

So we can go on here all day about Disney's philanthropy?

Pray tell, please do!!! :smooth:


According to Disney's annual report, DisneyHand (the outreach for Disney) contributed $116M and employees donated 461K hours last year. You can read more about their contributions to society at www.disneyhand.com.

By the way, I don't think the majority here want to get into a p***in contest over who's company does what. I just wanted to correct a perception that Walmart was somewhat of a second class organization when it comes to charity. I didn't think that was a fair statement.

[Danthesand]

According to Disney's annual report, DisneyHand (the outreach for Disney) contributed $116M and employees donated 461K hours last year.

Thank you - while the numbers sound large, based on dollars donated per each $1 million of assets, that's at best middle range for a Fortune 100 company. By no means cheap, but my employer (as well as Walmart and scores of others) have higher percentages.

Frankly, that's not surprising. Corporations with proprietary local "storefronts" (i.e., Walmart, McDonalds etc.) tend to be the biggest "givers," because they live and die based upon their local reputation on any given main street, and all those streets "add up." Or stated differently, they have to be a "good neighbor" in every town in the country.

Disney is different, while a worldwide brand they don't have locations everywhere (and please, no "what about the Disney Store?" responses, that failed attempt at retailing never even came close to what I'm describing). So their branding isn't tied into being compassionate to the concern du jour in every locality.

[MinnieSummer]

Danthesand you need to back down. I'm really glad you work in a place that you enjoy and are proud of but there's no need to get yourself so riled up. Same to everyone else. I personally don't care how much a company or individual contributes I only care that they do. It saddens me that everyone is judged by the what and how much they give. I believe the jewish faith has something wherein contributions are made anonymously (sp?). Wouldn't that be nice -- to not seek recognition but do it for the sake of doing it? Disney gave, WalMart gave, Danthesand's co. gave. Hopefully there will be enough to provide help to the evacuees (NOT REFUGEES) in getting their lives back.

[Danthesand]

Danthesand you need to back down......there's no need to get yourself so riled up.

:ssst: :ssst: :ssst: :ssst: :ssst:

? ? ?

::MinnieMo :sunny: = :crazy:

[*Fantasia*]

I wouldn't be surprise if this thread gets closed.

[Snurk71]

Danthesand - I think some might have read your post about how much your company contributes and how you were posting in bold the questions to Disney, as being a little riled up and defensive. They might miss the part where another poster "challenged" your company on what it has done outside of the hurricane that appeared to have gotten your feathers a little ruffled.

No biggie.

[kilee]

Aside from all the profit stats being thrown out here-- has anyone found substantial proof that Disney is in fact donating vacations and/or rooms?

I really can't see this happening as it was reported at the beginning of this thread. Honestly, being "housed" in Disney would probably be one of the most expensive ways to go. Just the thought of food, and things the kids would want to do.

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

The issue of Disney Insider that I got today simply outlined their monetary donation and explained how those funds were divided between the Red Cross and children's charities. There was nothing mentioned about housing anyone, for any price, for any length of time.

[klwdisney]

Aside from all the profit stats being thrown out here-- has anyone found substantial proof that Disney is in fact donating vacations and/or rooms?

I really can't see this happening as it was reported at the beginning of this thread. Honestly, being "housed" in Disney would probably be one of the most expensive ways to go. Just the thought of food, and things the kids would want to do.

I don't have any substantial proof except what the cast member told me on the phone. She said that they were VERY behind in releasing ADR times and November hours, etc. because they were all receiving info, training, etc. on receiving hurricane victims at the hotels. Although the plan to move a few thousand up here to Otis AFB and Camp Edwards in Massachusetts has been scrapped... maybe the plan to send them to Disney has also been scrapped. Guess we'll just have to wait and see... :confused3

[phorsenuf]

I didn't read the whole thread so I apologize in advance if I'm repeating things.
I kinda find it hard to believe Disney would house these people. It just doesn't seem logical to me. First how would they decide who comes and who doesn't? If they are not giving these people admission to the parks than that is just plain mean to the kids.
Here kids, come to stay at Disney but you can't come in. Makes no sense.
I would think it would put more of a hardship on the parents than anything. These kids are going to want things, they are going to want to do things that these parents can't afford.
Seems like a bad situation to me.
Plus with all this black/white/upperclass/lowerclass crap, deciding who comes and who doesn't could turn into a PR nightmare for Disney.

Just my thoughts.....

[MinnieSummer]

Phorsenuf I agree. I originally posted, here or on another site, that it would be great if WDW also offered to open up some hotel rooms for these people and in theory it still sounds like a great idea. BUT logistically it would be a nightmare of epic proportions. If they can figure a way around the race/social status mess, and a way to provide some time in the parks for the kids, it might work but honestly, can you imagine the outcry of the people not selected? Also, I've heard that a lot of the people are refusing to go anywhere because they just don't trust that they will be able to find the rest of the family, or the pets, or anything if they leave. Some are even holding out hope of being able to get back to their homes to find valued possessions. It's a very scary situation to find oneself in and I can only pray that they have the strength to get through this.

[minnie61650]

Danthesand you need to back down. I'm really glad you work in a place that you enjoy and are proud of but there's no need to get yourself so riled up. Same to everyone else. I personally don't care how much a company or individual contributes I only care that they do. It saddens me that everyone is judged by the what and how much they give. I believe the jewish faith has something wherein contributions are made anonymously (sp?). Wouldn't that be nice -- to not seek recognition but do it for the sake of doing it? Disney gave, WalMart gave, Danthesand's co. gave. Hopefully there will be enough to provide help to the evacuees (NOT REFUGEES) in getting their lives back.

ITA
I am glad corporations are giving and so that many places of business are collecting for this disaster. My daughter works at Walgreens in Michigan and the company donated a lot of money. The store she works donated a lot of money and is sending one their management people to help with the rebuilding efforts when it is time. The store also is accepting donations from their customers. I don't care if it is Walgreens, Walmart, Fortune 500 or a mom and pop party store. Many people and business large and small are collecting and donating and that's what makes our country so wonderful.
We care about others and are very generous when giving to charities and in times of Disaster. As *Fantasia* said this is not and should not be a debate. So stop debating and let us all donate what we feel we are able to.
Linda ::MinnieMo

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

I see a couple of holes in the theory that Disney is offering to house evacuees.

Think about the way the Disney property is laid out. Even if a family has a car it would be pretty inconvenient from the standpoint of JUST being a place to stay. The rooms in the Values are small and basic because they are designed for tourists. There are plenty of offsite hotels that would have larger rooms and more amenities for the same amount of money. The price break being mentioned isn't THAT much of a break, either.

I agree that it would be hard to stay at a Disney resort with kids IF the kids are old enough to understand where they are and what lies just beyond the resort. I imagine there are plenty of kids who would just not grasp that MK is right around the corner. If they haven't ever been exposed to Disney and what there is to do there then they wouldn't give it a second thought. I just don't think it's a practical plan to put folks at Disney if their main focus is getting down to the business of rebuilding their lives. :confused3

[robsmom]

Can't judge companies by one event or by the numbers you see on TV. Without knowing the details we really don't know what businesses are doing. Many times a fortune 500 donation is X$ plus supplies. Disney really has no supplies to donate (unless they reallty are doing this room thing. A walmart type of business probably shipped cases of water out of warehouses to the red cross. In addition, some businesses were hit hard themselves. Disney has little to no direct loss from this. Some fortune 500 businesses have plants shutdown. My company losses millions each day. Finally, the same businesses that have lost operations are the ones that have many employees impacted. Much of their "charity" starts at home by continuing pay, providing cash, food and housing for their employees etc.

[mamaprincess]

Praise the Lord. I hope it's true. Disney and many other resorts certainly have resources that private citizens don't. I was wondering if I could ever be lighthearted enough to go back to my most favorite place on earth. I would gladly continue to support and visit my second home knowing that they too are doing what they are able to do.

It is a dream of mine to sponsor trips to disney for under privileged youth in our area, now I can have a little peace knowing children like my little over privileged children may be walking along side them. I couldn't imagine a life without WDW and neither could my "brats". :love:

Of course there are the usual concerns but like I said Disney is more equipped to handle them than most as they deal with crowd control and every element everyday.

God bless my Disney.

[peter11435]

Can't judge companies by one event or by the numbers you see on TV. Without knowing the details we really don't know what businesses are doing. Many times a fortune 500 donation is X$ plus supplies. Disney really has no supplies to donate (unless they reallty are doing this room thing. A walmart type of business probably shipped cases of water out of warehouses to the red cross. In addition, some businesses were hit hard themselves. Disney has little to no direct loss from this. Some fortune 500 businesses have plants shutdown. My company losses millions each day. Finally, the same businesses that have lost operations are the ones that have many employees impacted. Much of their "charity" starts at home by continuing pay, providing cash, food and housing for their employees etc.
Disney has sent some supplies. They sent a bunch of boats to use to aid in the rescue effort.

It is also important to point out that Disney does donate tons of supplies when they are needed. Last year alone Disney donated over 2 billion (yes that is billion) gallons of water.

[Rex Rules]

I am so glad to hear this! I know it is probably little consolation after losing your home and all your worldly possessions, but it would provide a little distraction - and I'm sure the kids would LOVE it!

[ducklite]

I see big holes with the housing people at WDW plan. Kids need to go to school, and there is no school bus service to WDW. There are no cooking facilities in most WDW rooms, and eating out is going to be prohibitive. None of the stores at WDW are going to take food stamps or WIC vouchers.

And for $59 a night, evacuees can rent a really nice 2BR apartment on a busline in this area, and have the money for utilities and payment on furniture/household goods to a leasing company, credit card, or store credit. Lots of aparments do a $99 move in special, no last months rent, and you can break up the security deposit over the next 2-3 months. And there are a ton of jobs, Disney, construction, retail, all hiring like mad.

While if it is in fact something WDW is offering, I just don't see it being beneficial.

Anne

[Danthesand]

I see big holes with the housing people at WDW plan.

Anne, you made excellent points. Thinking a Disney resort is a pratical place the house hurricance refugees is like thinking the best way to rush a car accident victim to the hospital is in a stretch limo. :rolleyes:

[klwdisney]

Wow... didn't think passing on some what i thought was helpful info from a castmember for trip planning would cause a vicious thread full of flaming...

:sad2:

[ducklite]

Wow... didn't think passing on some what i thought was helpful info from a castmember for trip planning would cause a vicious thread full of flaming...

:sad2:

I wasn't trying to flame you, just looking at the big picture and how I just don't see it being cost effective or logical. Sorry if you thought my post was a flame.

Anne

[klwdisney]

Not you specifically ducklite... but this is 5 pages of flaming for a simple statement a castmember told me. flaming me, flaming others... this is ridiculous!

it was a simple "heads up". if they come to disney then plan for more crowds. if the idea is scrapped then oh well. there's no reason to discuss financial comparisons between disney and other major companies, etc.

just take the post for what it was... a heads up. i just don't understand the people on these boards sometimes. they jump down each other's throats and twist innocent posts around to start huge arguments. anyway... before i go off on another rant i'll close my mouth...
:blush:

Have a nice day everyone... :goodvibes

[Planogirl]

I don't understand how a discussion about Disney possibly offering rooms to Katrina victims turned into a debate about how much companies are donating.

I imagine that Disney will offer discounted rates to those affected by Katrina and that will be the extent of the rooms thing. I can't imagine it working any other way.

[Disney-Kim]

It doesn't seem fair to all the people who are stuck in shelters on cots for some to be put up free in a hotel room in WDW of all places.
I agree that these people need a more stable enviroment where their kids can go to school, such as an apartment.
It just doesn't make a whole lot of sense in a long term view.

[Andrew2005]

I've just come across this article from the Orlando Sentinel, which is related to the discussion:-

article link (http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-canehotel0805sep08,0,1753432.story?coll=orl-business-headlines)

[swilphil]

I imagine this is what the cast member is talking about:

Walt Disney World spokesman Bill Warren said the company is offering its Florida resident rate to people from storm-affected areas and is also working with the Red Cross, but hasn't seen a heavy demand for the service so far.

"We haven't had any huge number of people coming forward presenting these [IDs from storm-affected states]," Warren said.

(from the Orlando Sentinel article)

I can't see people living at a Disney resort indefinitely. For one thing, who wants to go to Florida in September when they have just lived through a hurricane. Now if I were stuck at my Aunt Mrytle's house in Nebraska while I'm waiting to return home, I think that would be a perfect time for a little vacation to Disney World.

[jjarman]

I just don’t see a lot of the refugees taking advantage of an offer for a discounted vacation to WDW. First off, they have no way to get to Orlando. That is why most of them are refugees to begin with. If they had had a car most would have evacuated before the storm. Second of all, the kids are in school now and at least in our area the kids are still out of school due to the storm damage to the schools. There will most likely be no Christmas Break, Thanksgiving Break or Spring Break for these kids. They have to make up the almost 2 weeks so far they have missed. Third, these people have much more important things to worry about than a vacation to WDW. Or at least I would think they would. They need a house or apartment to live in. They need jobs. They need clothes. Disney is not upper most in their minds right now. I know they need a break from all they have been through but get real.

[peachgirl]

That is why most of them are refugees to begin with. If they had had a car most would have evacuated before the storm.

I think the offer is for anyone who was in the affected areas, not just evacuees living in shelters. I'm sure there are many hurricane victims who have vehicles and aren't poor.

Hopefully Disney will extend the offer for a long period of time so that at least some of them can make use of the offer.

[jjarman]

I think the offer is for anyone who was in the affected areas, not just evacuees living in shelters. I'm sure there are many hurricane victims who have vehicles and aren't poor.

Hopefully Disney will extend the offer for a long period of time so that at least some of them can make use of the offer.

That would be good, extending the offer for several months. I could not take advantage of it for some time and very few people I know could. We are too busy for the next few months getting repairs done and many getting houses rebuilt to even think of a vacation for a long time.

[CarolA]

I can see Disney doing a few things...

Remember during the fire season a few years ago Disney gave some very good deals to firefighters.... Can't you see the same deals for Rescue workers and thier familes....That would be nice. (I would think maybe in a few months not next week)

Plus Disney could offer deals to Hurricane surviors. It would be up to the families to decide if they could take the deal. Just like the offer "free dining" etc... There is this assumption here that all of the refugees are homeless and waiting... I have read stories of folks who already bought new houses in locations and started jobs. I posted about HCA efforts the other day. I know that job offers are being extended to folks who have wound up in cities where there is a need. (And there are lots of places with shortages of medical staff).... So those folks have a job... maybe they want to take their kids to Disney to help them adjust... I can see it. It's a reward for living thru the upheaval. The assumption that everyone is without jobs, transport etc.. is not completely valid. There are those that are already starting to start over... (Not the majority, but it is happening)

There will also be folks who will take the insurance money and blow it.. LOL! It always happens and it's not our place to judge. Personally if I had a well insured "blown away" home on the Gulf I might take this as a sign to MOVE to cheaper housing inland!!! (I AM NOT COMMENTING on what folks should do, just what I might do)

[MinnieSummer]

I'm being picky but -- could everyone please stop referring to these people as refugees. They are not refugees. According to the dictionary a refugee is: "A PERSON WHO FLEES HIS COUNTRY TO ESCAPE OPPRESSION OR PERSECUTION". These people are EVACUEES. People who were removed from their homes (not countries) to escape a threatened or dangerous or catastrophic event. I know the media started it but I find it offensive. These are not people from another country who are escaping a corrupt government or religious persecution, they are Americans who have suffered through a terrible, life altering time.

Thank you.

[LakeAriel]

Yeah, these poor slobs couldn't even flee! It doesn't look like America to me!No one in this Federal Government helped for 5 days. That's why there is confusion as to whether they are evacuees or refugees.

[peachgirl]

I'm being picky but -- could everyone please stop referring to these people as refugees. They are not refugees. According to the dictionary a refugee is: "A PERSON WHO FLEES HIS COUNTRY TO ESCAPE OPPRESSION OR PERSECUTION". These people are EVACUEES. People who were removed from their homes (not countries) to escape a threatened or dangerous or catastrophic event. I know the media started it but I find it offensive. These are not people from another country who are escaping a corrupt government or religious persecution, they are Americans who have suffered through a terrible, life altering time.

Thank you.

I agree, but I'm afraid you're fighting a losing battle. Even the President has said they should not be referred to as refugees but for some reason some people are insisting on doing it. I'll leave the whys to someone else to figure out.

[MinnieSummer]

Peachgirl, your quote at the bottom of your post is soooooo appropriate to this thread. It goes quite nicely with something I said earlier in this thread. I don't know if you put it in intentionally or if it is always there but how perfect.

[peachgirl]

Peachgirl, your quote at the bottom of your post is soooooo appropriate to this thread. It goes quite nicely with something I said earlier in this thread. I don't know if you put it in intentionally or if it is always there but how perfect.

Thank you, I put it there several weeks ago, long before the hurricane hit. It's kind of weird how it fits the current situation though.

[Sinderelli]

Peachgirl. I love the Matthew quote. I am the moderator of the Matthew 25 club in my school, in which all students are encouraged to perform 25 hours of service in their community and that Bible quote is the inspiration for our club! How appropriate! OK, an update on my situation. As many of you know, we left the New Orleans area for San Antonio b/c of Katrina. We were debating on cancelling our Feb/Mar WDW trip and Wonder cruise. I really didn't want to, and then someone on here suggested going now instead of then. The good news is, the school where I teach sustained very little damage and I will be back at work on Oct. 3! However, we will have to make up the missed days so in all likelyhood I will not have the Mardi Gras vacation I planned on, which means I would have had to cancel my WDW vacation anyway. Soooooo, to make a long story short we are heading to WDW soon and will check in on Thurs for 7 nights, 8 days!!! I can't wait! The trip is going to cost half of what my Feb. trip costs so we only had a little bit more to put down. I even made my ADRs today and got almost everything I wanted (Chef Mickey's, Crystal Palace, Princess Storybook @ Akershus, Whispering Canyon, Prime Time Cafe, 1900 Park Fare, and Restaurantasaurus). We didn't get CRT but oh well! I can't complain. Anyway, I wanted to say thanks to everyone on here for the advice and the kind words. Please keep the people on N.O. and the Gulf Coast in your prayers- we WILL rebuild and we WILL be back! Thanks everyone! :cool1:

[peachgirl]

That's great news Sinderelli! Were you able to get the discounts that have been discussed here?

Thanks, as you can see, I change my sig on and off and it just occurred to me the new one is most appropriate right now!

Have a great time at WDW, I can't think of a better time to go!

[Sinderelli]

No discounts- the CM told me the discount they are offering is for room only. We are doing the MYW with the dining, so we weren't interested in the room only rate. I'm hoping the parks are not crowded- doesn't seem like it will be as I was able to book many of my 1st choices for ADRs.

[peachgirl]

I've read on the some of the Disney boards here that the park crowds are very light right now so that'll be good news for you.

Have a great time!

[MinnieSummer]

Sinderelli: I am so happy that you and your family will have some pixie dust in this horrible time in your life. This is much better than just cancelling your reservation completely. I'm sure when you get home you will be faced with reality again but maybe by then you will feel better able to deal with it. We've always been lucky living in South Florida that we have been on the edges of the various storms, or like last year, just blessed that people a 1/4 mile north and south were leveled and we were just without power for 12 days. I hope our luck continues to hold but if it doesn't I have people like you that can give us hope for the future.

Peachgirl: Keep those signatures coming. They are truly inspirational in a time like this.

[LoraJ]

My boyfriend's parents are displaced for a month or so now until they are allowed back in their parish. My boyfriend said something about the Red Cross paying for their hotel for a certain number of those weeks. I wonder if that is at designated hotels? I wonder if they decided to switch from their hotel in LA to a WDW hotel if they would still be reimbursed?

[crazyforgoofy]

Peachgirl. I love the Matthew quote. I am the moderator of the Matthew 25 club in my school, in which all students are encouraged to perform 25 hours of service in their community and that Bible quote is the inspiration for our club! How appropriate! OK, an update on my situation. As many of you know, we left the New Orleans area for San Antonio b/c of Katrina. We were debating on cancelling our Feb/Mar WDW trip and Wonder cruise. I really didn't want to, and then someone on here suggested going now instead of then. The good news is, the school where I teach sustained very little damage and I will be back at work on Oct. 3! However, we will have to make up the missed days so in all likelyhood I will not have the Mardi Gras vacation I planned on, which means I would have had to cancel my WDW vacation anyway. Soooooo, to make a long story short we are heading to WDW soon and will check in on Thurs for 7 nights, 8 days!!! I can't wait! The trip is going to cost half of what my Feb. trip costs so we only had a little bit more to put down. I even made my ADRs today and got almost everything I wanted (Chef Mickey's, Crystal Palace, Princess Storybook @ Akershus, Whispering Canyon, Prime Time Cafe, 1900 Park Fare, and Restaurantasaurus). We didn't get CRT but oh well! I can't complain. Anyway, I wanted to say thanks to everyone on here for the advice and the kind words. Please keep the people on N.O. and the Gulf Coast in your prayers- we WILL rebuild and we WILL be back! Thanks everyone! :cool1:

:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: I'm SO glad you're going. Enjoy each and every minute. As we've all been reminded again recently, life is uncertain. Gather ye rosebuds while ye may or rather gather your Disney memories as often as possible. Hugs to your family.

[Jpgirl]

I am so happy you're going to get to go!! It'll be so nice just to take that time and regroup!! We're leaving a week from todayfor our 25th wedding anniversary so we'll drink a toast to y'all. :grouphug:

[LakeAriel]

Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: NJ
Posts: 2,856 My boyfriend's parents are displaced for a month or so now until they are allowed back in their parish. My boyfriend said something about the Red Cross paying for their hotel for a certain number of those weeks. I wonder if that is at designated hotels? I wonder if they decided to switch from their hotel in LA to a WDW hotel if they would still be reimbursed?

All of those of us that donated millions to the Red Cross for the displaced want each person housed comfortably. This means finding the least expensive nearby lodging that is clean and safe. I'm sure you BF's parents are grateful and realize that the Red Cross doesn't provide Disney vacations. If they did surely they would go to the children who have suffered so much! Some 1600 are still separated from their families.

[CarolA]

As a general rule, agencies like the Red Cross will negotiate with hotels for rooms. So if they have 20 families they will work out a "group" discount. Not sure that works at Disney?

[swilphil]

I agree, but I'm afraid you're fighting a losing battle. Even the President has said they should not be referred to as refugees but for some reason some people are insisting on doing it. I'll leave the whys to someone else to figure out.

I heard somewhere that they should be referred to as "hurricane survivors." I know I used the term refugees before, but I wasn't really thinking when I said it. No disrespect meant.

[peachgirl]

I heard somewhere that they should be referred to as "hurricane survivors." I know I used the term refugees before, but I wasn't really thinking when I said it. No disrespect meant.

I did too at first and I think it was mostly because that's what I heard them being called. Then I gave it some thought and this is one of the rare times I agree with the President.

Most people when saying refugee mean people fleeing their country due to persecution of some kind and it does have a negative connotation to it.

I'm not saying anyone who ever says it is awful, I did it too. I guess I just don't understand those who fight so fiercely to use that term.

[BuckNaked]

I guess I just don't understand those who fight so fiercely to use that term.

I guess I just don't understand why you fight so fiercely to keep people from using that term. If you don't want to use it, more power to you, but that doesn't mean that you get to dictate what others say.

As for using Red Cross assistance to stay in a Disney resort, I wouldn't do it, but to each his own.

[LakeAriel]

They arent permitted to do it either. Watching that National tragedy (45 poor souls just today found dead in a hospital) I find it down right greedy for someone to ask to stay in a Disney resort while displaced! The people around the world are giving oftimes their last dime to help these people and those that feel it's an entitlement infuriate me!!!!!!
That said, the poor BF's Mother may never have asked such a thing, it may be only the girlfriend thinking it. Please be grateful for the Redcross that she isn't in the street like thousands were!
May she get home soon!

[CarolA]

They arent permitted to do it either. Watching that National tragedy (45 poor souls just today found dead in a hospital) I find it down right greedy for someone to ask to stay in a Disney resort while displaced! The people around the world are giving oftimes their last dime to help these people and those that feel it's an entitlement infuriate me!!!!!!
That said, the poor BF's Mother may never have asked such a thing, it may be only the girlfriend thinking it. Please be grateful for the Redcross that she isn't in the street like thousands were!
May she get home soon!

Well, I found this a little harsh.... You are infuriateated because someone asked a QUESTION????? Plus for all you know DISNEY might be giving an even better rate???? What would you do then? We don't have very many facts here just lots of "ideas"

This whole thread is SPECULATION (there isn't even anyone posting who got a discount) so it's not worth getting your blood pressure up over.

[LakeAriel]

You're right ,we don't know that the victim is asking at all only the DS's girlfriend. What would I do? I would thank God the Red Cross was there to give me shelter. As it is, far too many didn't even get that till way too late!!!! :guilty:

[MinnieSummer]

Bucknaked: I am not dictating what a person can say I am just pointing out that the term "refugee" is being used improperly and the definition bears this out. The proper term is "evacuee". I posted the definitions earlier in this thread but if you don't believe me look it up.

[BuckNaked]

Bucknaked: I am not dictating what a person can say I am just pointing out that the term "refugee" is being used improperly and the definition bears this out. The proper term is "evacuee". I posted the definitions earlier in this thread but if you don't believe me look it up.

My response regarding dictating was to another poster. As for the definitions, yes, I've seen them, and it fits in this situation. Evacuee is proper as well, so use it if you like, just as I'll use refugee.

[peachgirl]

Bucknaked: I am not dictating what a person can say I am just pointing out that the term "refugee" is being used improperly and the definition bears this out. The proper term is "evacuee". I posted the definitions earlier in this thread but if you don't believe me look it up.

::yes::

No one is dictating what anyone can say, just as you said, they are simply pointing out that it's an improper use of the word and that even the President agrees.

People are free to speak using improper language if they want to and no one has said they can't.

[BuckNaked]

::yes::

No one is dictating what anyone can say, just as you said, they are simply pointing out that it's an improper use of the word and that even the President agrees.

People are free to speak using improper language if they want to and no one has said they can't.

If you would like to get this thread closed as well, no problem. But the fact that you don't like a particular usage of a word doesn't make it improper.

[peachgirl]

But the fact that you don't like a particular usage of a word doesn't make it improper.

I agree. The word being improper is what makes it improper to use. Whether I like the word has nothing to do with it.


Sorry, I didn't realize you were the only one allowed to post on a topic without the thread being closed.

When you misrepresent what I say, I'm going to respond. If the thread gets closed, so be it.

I'll let others decide who's to blame for the closing.

[LoraJ]

All of those of us that donated millions to the Red Cross for the displaced want each person housed comfortably. This means finding the least expensive nearby lodging that is clean and safe. I'm sure you BF's parents are grateful and realize that the Red Cross doesn't provide Disney vacations. If they did surely they would go to the children who have suffered so much! Some 1600 are still separated from their families.

You Know, I was just asking a question. Where they are now is pretty far away in the middle of no where. They suffered with agony for a week or so not knowing about all of their family. Right now they have no clue about their future with their jobs, etc. They are lucky for everything they have.

It's not like the Red Cross would be paying for a Disney Vacation. They would only pay for the hotel, which could be cheaper than what they are paying now. Which is why I was asking the question.

I don't know if you have ever personally suffered a traumatizing event like this hurricane, but let me tell you, when you get away from it, and see that the rest of the world can still be normal, it is very theraputic.

I haven't even suggested it to his parents yet. They probably won't even budge. So stop judging me and them based on a question I was finding out as an option to them.

jeez!

[peachgirl]

It's not like the Red Cross would be paying for a Disney Vacation. They would only pay for the hotel, which could be cheaper than what they are paying now. Which is why I was asking the question.

As I understand it, Disney is offering discounts on rooms only to those who live in the affected areas. I believe the rate was $59 a night for value resorts.

You're not going to get a decent hotel room much cheaper than that. I suspect the Red Cross could care less where the hotel is and since you're obviously not asking them to pay for anything other than the room itself I don't think it would make any difference to them.

It won't hurt to check into it if that's what they wanted to do. It's really between the Red Cross and them and no one else.

[LakeAriel]

If only it were that simple! A displaced person needs to be near services that will get them back on their feet. Food and jobs for example. If you were to say Central Florida that's one thing. There are only restaurants and expensive ones at that within Disney World. Even the food courts are expensive compared to surrounding areas. It's a tourist attraction!
Yes, my family went through 9/11. I, for one, am appalled at how much suffering is going on in the affected areas. I think the Government let all of us down. I wish your friends and loved ones only the best. That is why I donated blood and money to the effort. I still believe, however, if you can go to Disneyworld by all means go, it would be very theraputic. I just don't think the Red Cross needs to subsidize it. IMHO!

[MinnieSummer]

I agree peachgirl -- with everything. If Red Cross is giving money to EVACUEES to stay in a hotel I don't think they would care what hotel it is. And it would be therapeutic for them to be somewhere where the destruction isn't evident and the people aren't all scared. It's worth checking into.

Bucknaked: Get over it. You are using the word improperly but if you want to continue to do so it is your choice. I was only trying to educate but I will not consider that subject closed.

[MinnieSummer]

OOPS TYPO!! I meant I will NOW consider the subject closed.

[LoraJ]

If only it were that simple! A displaced person needs to be near services that will get them back on their feet. Food and jobs for example. If you were to say Central Florida that's one thing. There are only restaurants and expensive ones at that within Disney World. Even the food courts are expensive compared to surrounding areas. It's a tourist attraction!
Yes, my family went through 9/11. I, for one, am appalled at how much suffering is going on in the affected areas. I think the Government let all of us down. I wish your friends and loved ones only the best. That is why I donated blood and money to the effort. I still believe, however, if you can go to Disneyworld by all means go, it would be very theraputic. I just don't think the Red Cross needs to subsidize it. IMHO!


If the hotel cost is the same or less as where they are now, why would it even matter in regards to cost? They are no where near their jobs now, so what is the difference? They have absolutely no desire to relocate. The Red Cross is only reimbursing them for a couple of weeks anyway.

[BuckNaked]

When you misrepresent what I say, I'm going to respond. If the thread gets closed, so be it.



Same here. And when you put out incorrect information, I will respond as well. So there we are.

Bucknaked: Get over it. You are using the word improperly but if you want to continue to do so it is your choice.

No, I'm not, but if you want to continue to believe that, be my guest. You looked at one definition of refugee and said "that doesn't fit", and I looked at another definition and said "that does fit".

I was only trying to educate but I will not consider that subject closed.

Educate? :rotfl2: Thanks, but no thanks. I prefer to have my education come from an institute of higher learning, not a poster on the DIS. :rotfl2:

[peachgirl]

Same here. And when you put out incorrect information, I will respond as well. So there we are.

As it should be, no problems with that whatsoever.

[LakeAriel]

Point is the Red Cross already provided emergency disaster relief and shelter!! They don't upgrade! I'm happy they only need it for a few weeks. Thousands were in football stadiums and convention centers with no water or food for 5 days. The Red Cross has more then enough to do!
Feel free to get together with your BF and take them to Disney World as a treat!