Here are some web sources for listing and reaching relatives and friends:

http://neworleans.craigslist.org/about/help/katrina_aid.html
Craigs list is an on-line community with lists of info and resources all over the world
http://www.craigslist.org/about/cities.html

Air America Radio's Public Voicemail 1-866-217-6255
Air America Radio's Public Voicemail is a way for disconnected people to communicate in the wake of Katrina.
http://www.airamericaradio.com/katrina/voicemailinfo.html
Here's how it works:
Call the toll-free number above, enter your everyday phone number, and then record a message. Other people who know your everyday phone number (even if it doesn't work anymore) can call Emergency Voicemail, enter the phone number they associate with you, and hear your message.
You can also search for messages left by people whose phone numbers you know.

http://www.emergency-database.com/
This is a search form that allows you to post info and photos of missing people

http://hurricanehousing.org/
This is a project of MoveOn.Org Civic Action where you can donate housing or find housing

NAACP Disaster Fund
Contributions (https://www.naacp.org/disaster/contribute.php)

I thank you, as I'm sure many of us do, for taking the time to post this thread.
it's of great help to many.