At its Sept. 7-10 annual convention in Orlando, the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors-National Association set aside a fund to immediately provide $2,000 to any member in the hurricane-damaged areas who requests assistance. The association also agreed to waive two years of national dues payments for those members.

Two members have been assisted by the fund at deadline. Other members affected by the hurricane are being contacted to let them know that the assistance from PHCC is available.

In addition, a task force, which includes members from New Orleans, has been set up to determine ways to find jobs for those who can't go back to work in the hurricane-stricken areas. PHCC also is actively involved with other industry associations to develop the best response for this and other disasters.

"The association is ready to respond to the disaster," said 2005-2006 PHCC NA president Jim Stack. "We will continue to monitor the situation and make the best decisions on how to use the members' donations."

Contributions are being accepted for the fund. To contribute, call (800)533-7694, or e-mail naphcc@naphcc.org.