In a time when we need more compassion and kindness in the world, what kind of monster kicks a person when she's down. What kind of institution would inflict the pain, fear and devastation of homelessness on those who have already lost their homes, their livelihoods, their belongings, and their way of life? University Gardens Apartments of Athens GA is doing just that. Please join me in telling them, don't evict victims of hurricane Katrina.

Like so many victims of Katrina, Che Vaughn lost her home, her belongings and her way of life. She has worked hard to rebuild a life for herself in a new town. But a year after her life was devastated by the worst natural disaster to ever hit the US, disaster struck again, leaving her financially deprived. Her landlords, the University Garden Apartments in Athens GA, are threatening her with eviction. She is once again facing the loss of her home, her livelihood, and her lifestyle. Please tell the Managers of University Garden Apartments not to evict Che or any other Katrina evacuees. Their loss has been great enough.

Che is a writer and artist. Though her mobility is effected by arthritis she remains active in fundraising and charity. Very recently two streams of her income were cut off suddenly, and she was left temporarily unable to pay her rent. Though the situation will soon be rectified, she is nonetheless being threatened with eviction. Only ten days late with her rent, she began receiving threatening letters and communiques from her landlord.

Is there anything more fearful than the threat of losing one's home, one's shelter, one of the major necessities of life? And to be threatened with the eventuality so soon after losing one's home to a hurricane must be doubly terrifying. Che is not asking for a free ride, just a little time.

Please tell University Garden Apartments not to evict Che or any Katrina evacuees, to be patient and work with these victims to help them maintain a home and a new way of life. Please sign the petition and also take a moment to go to the University Garden contact page. (link opens new window) Send them a personal note stating that their behavior in this case is reprehensible. Ask them to look into their hearts and find a little patience and generosity. Ask them not to evict Che or any other victims of Katrina.