The Foundation for Financial Planning has awarded a $100,000 emergency grant to the Financial Planning Association for the creation of hurricane relief services.
   The FPA has been active in providing pro bono financial planning services since it created a help center for the victims of the September 11 attacks and is poised to do the same for victims of Hurricane Katrina.
   Two task forces have been created to implement outreach efforts for both the public and for advisors displaced by the storm.

    The FPA says it has opened a location in Shreveport, La., where CFP's will be offering pro bono services to evacuees and residents in that area.
   The type of help offered will include:
    Assistance in the filing of insurance claims
    Household budgeting tips
    Determining eligibility for unemployment compensation
    Providing guidance in working with creditors and mortgage companies.
   The service is available by appointment only and those who are interested may schedule a time to meet with a CFP by calling (318) 221-7549. 
   "As we've seen in our work with past disasters, such as the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the 2004 wildfires in California, many victims desperately need the assistance and advice of a Certified Financial Planner professional," says FPA President James A. Barnash. "A financial planner can help hurricane victims file insurance claims for lost/damaged homes, apply for grants, and determine how to allocate insurance settlements to help recover/rebuild and address cash flow issues during relocation and rebuilding."