As efforts continue around the nation to assist victims of Hurricane Katrina, Mercy Ships is contributing to relief efforts by collaborating with city officials, churches and other non-governmental organizations. The Caribbean Mercy, a Mercy Ship usually serving the poor and needy in Central America and the Caribbean, was docked in Mobile, Alabama when the hurricane struck. The Mercy Ship is now serving as a command center and housing location for relief teams. Mercy Ships disaster response coordinators are collaborating with local relief agencies to ensure those who need help will receive it. A group from the Mercy Ship is canvassing neighborhoods near Mobile Bay, asking residents what their needs are and determining how to best meet those needs.