Finally

Louisiana residents displaced by Hurricane Katrina who need help getting federal and state benefits can now call a single toll-free number.


It was set up jointly by three state departments: Health and Hospitals, Labor, and Social Services. The number is 1-888-LAHELPU, or 1-888-524-3578; it will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. They can get information about these programs:


--Food Stamp Benefits, including Disaster Food Stamp Benefits

--Medicaid or WIC

--Mental Health Counseling

--Addictive Disorders

--Developmental Disorders

--Social Security Benefits or Social Security Disability Benefits

--Child Support

--Foster Care Program

--DHH Optional State Supplement Checks

--Louisiana Rehabilitation Services

--Unemployment Benefits and Disaster Unemployment Benefits


Displaced Department of Social Services employees may also call the number to report their whereabouts or ask about their jobs. Officials ask for patience because they expect a lot of calls, especially during the first days.