In a city with 30% poverty rate it isn't that surprising. What amazed me were the number upper-middle class that didn't have insurance. Something like 60% of the folks in the Lower 9th actually owned their homes, often they inherited them. It's mortgage companies that force you to have flood insurance, so if your house isn't mortgaged, and you're barely getting by, insurance is not your first priority.

Many thanks to the High School and College kids who are giving up their spring breaks to come help rebuild. Met some nice kids from Farmington, NM the other day while taking my dog for a walk - they're staying in a neighborhood church that provides bunk housing for volunteers. One of the boys is on his second trip.