The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) has established the Hurricane Katrina Construction Workers Fund, through the AGC Education and Research Foundation, to provide financial assistance to the construction workers in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama who suffered financially from the disaster.

AGC will work with the chapters in those states to establish criteria for eligibility, identify eligible victims and distribute contributions.

Many of the workers who are likely to benefit from this fund will be employed to participate in the clean-up and restoration of the cities and towns suffering damage.

“Our hope is that this relief fund will offer some peace of mind to those who have suffered,” said AGC CEO Stephen E. Sandherr. “As these construction workers are helping to rebuild their hometowns, we will be able to offer them assistance to restore their own homes.”

“It is appropriate for AGC and the construction industry to dedicate resources to provide financial assistance to employees of AGC member firms who were affected by the storm,” said Foundation President Peter Wert.

Construction employment in the three states totaled nearly 275,000 in July, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics. Figures are only available statewide; large parts of each state were unaffected.

Many of these employees are without income in the short term while they are attempting to rebuild their homes and replace furniture, clothing and household goods for themselves and their families.

Contributions should be made to the AGC Education and Research Foundation at www.agc.org/donate or by mailing a check to the AGC Education and Research Foundation (Hurricane Katrina Construction Workers Fund); 333 John Carlyle Street, Suite 200; Alexandria, VA 22314. All contributions are fully deductible charitable contributions.