Ann G. writes: Just came back to Santa Cruz after being in New Orleans. It's nice to be back, where peoples' homes are intact and not everything is toxic. My heart is heavy though, thinking about the people of New Orleans who have lost so much and continue to suffer.

One year after Katrina, less than half the population of New Orleans has returned. Tens of thousands of families still live in trailers and mobile homes with no plan in place to move them to permanent housing. Countless others are homeless. Rotting debris and toxic waste remain in many streets. Only half the city has electricity. Half it's hospitals and public schools remain closed. The suicide rate has tripled and many residents suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Read more and view photos

Audio: Peacetalks: Alan Jenkins, New Orleans one year after Hurricane Katrina

more info: One-Year Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina || New Orleans Indymedia || Alternative Relief Organizations