Edwards Gets Hands-on in New Orleans
Democratic presidential hopeful builds with Habitat for Humanity in the Crescent City
Sign outside Habitat for Humanity's Musicians' Village, November, 2007. (Photo courtesy Abigayle Lista)
Democratic Presidential candidate and former Senator John Edwards recently visited the Lower Ninth Ward neighborhood in New Orleans. Senator Edwards of North Carolina was in town to assist Habitat for Humanity in building homes in the Musicians' Village.
Edwards has visited the New Orleans area more than any other presidential candidate. Senator Edwards took a short break from eating his lunch to answer questions from the crowd. Many Scholastic News Online readers wanted to know his answer to the following question: "What one issue has the greatest effect on children's futures?"
Mr. Edwards replied: "There are actually two issues that greatly affect children: education and access to adequate health care. These two issues affect kids all over our country—especially the children here in New Orleans."
Edwards continued his lunch with Habitat for Humanity volunteers and five "Build With John" contest winners. The contest was a random drawing of people who had recently made a donation to his campaign. Habitat for Humanity in New Orleans is constructing 72 single-story homes for local musicians and other qualifying residents. Habitat for Humanity plans to build more than 200 homes on the block. Edwards reinforced the organization's mission, saying, "It's only through the help of volunteers—both local and from across the country—that the city [of New Orleans] has progressed as far as it has."
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| Democratic candidiate for President John Edwards with volunteers during Habitat for Humanity's Musicians Village build, November, 2007. (Photo courtesy Abigayle Lista) |
The former Senator participated in the home building by hanging outdoor siding alongside the contest winners. While participating in the hands-on labor, he expanded on his plans for the city if he is elected president. His time was limited, however, as he had to make his way to another event across town. His next message for the people of New Orleans—and the rest of the country—was about climate change at the National Day of Climate Action Rally, sponsored by Step It Up.
Scholastic Kid Reporters are on the campaign trail. Keep up with the latest election news in this special report.
Abigayle Lista is a member of the Scholastic Kids Press Corps.
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