|
On the west bank of the Mississippi River,
six miles from the heart of New Orleans sits the community of Marrero, Louisiana. Located in Jefferson Parish (2007
estimated population of 423,520), Marrero had a population of 36,000 people according to the 2000 census with 16.3% of families
and 20.9% of the population living below the poverty line.
The fruit of poverty, the effects
of Hurricane Katrina and a shifting of the population following that storm—new residents relocating from New Orleans
and former residents of Jefferson Parish who have not returned—has affected five key areas:
Blight—vacant lots and areas of substandard housing
Crime—The Jefferson Parish sheriff’s
office reports an increase in crime since Hurricane Katrina. The Sheriff has solicited partnerships with community leaders
and organizations to combat area crime. Pastor Mealancon is a member of Jefferson Cops and Clergy Coalition established
to reach at risk youth and strengthen families.
The drop-out rate—A 2008 study by the Louisiana Department of Education of the 2006-07 school
term found that approximately 34% of students enrolled in public high school in the state either dropped out, graduated with
a GED or something other than a diploma or did not graduate on time.
Increase in unemployment and homelessness—The current national
economy has affected state and local unemployment figures. The Jefferson Parish mobile crisis team reports a huge increase
in homelessness in the parish—evidenced by the individuals and families residing under the west-bank elevated expressway.
Hopelessness, and
a decline of the human spirit—The storm and its aftereffects have contributed to an increase of Jefferson Parish citizens
experiencing mental disorders due to mental illness and drug-induced disorders (From The Community Support Division of Jefferson
Parish Human Services Authority).
The above
five areas hinder sizeable segments of Marrero’s population from thriving socially, economically, educationally and
spiritually—a view shared by community, business and political leaders, law enforcement and church leadership.
Expressing concern about the future of the city and the southern region, leadership has actively sought solutions to combat
the serious quality-of-life issues present in their community.
|
