The best thing local citizens can do in the wake of Hurricane Katrina is "be available," said Rev. James Webb, pastor of Bethesda Baptist Church during a visit to the local Red Cross shelter.

Several businesses, organizations and residents are taking heed by providing ways to help victims.

Under the Texas Sun and Central Perks invites the public and refugees to their "Hurricane Relief Benefit–Food, Music and Fellowship" Saturday at 6 p.m.

"We want to listen to their individual stories and help them out," said Jennie Kelehan, co-owner of Under the Texas Sun. There will be free food, drinks, dessert and entertainment from the Knowmads band, performing at 6:30 p.m.

The benefit will be outside downtown in the 200 block of North Washington Avenue between Austin and Rusk streets.

Ms. Kelehan said she, along with Debra Wallis and Rob Sorich of Central Perks; Ginger Garrett, co-owner of Under the Texas Sun; along with Debbie Hatfield and Darwin Cooper decided they needed to do something to help victims out.

"We will provide dinner and an opportunity to network with community leaders," she said. "What we're finding out from refugees staying in hotels is that they are going to stay here and look for work. They have nothing to go back to."