Some families sought shelter anywhere they could find it. Others left with the intention of bunking with family in other cities.
With the dangerous conditions caused by Katrina, one New Iberia family opened its doors to 24 people, including family and strangers.
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"They had no other place to go," Russell said.
"We don't know the neighbors they brought, but my family knows them and that's good enough."
Sleeping arrangements were tough but everyone found a spot.
"Everybody was on the floor or the sofa. That's how we slept," said Russell.
After the tight first night, the number of people in Daniels' home eased.
"Last night (Monday) we had one family of seven that slept in their car in the Iberia General parking. I've taken those into my house," Russell said.
With 15 evacuees still in Daniels' home and nine in Russell's home, the family has relied upon the kindness of the community to get through the crisis.
Russell said local eateries and stores such as Fremin's, Super 1 Foods, Domino's Pizza, Pizza Hut and Church's Chicken have donated food to feed the group.
Although the accommodations are less than ideal, Russell said she and her aunt are just following the teachings of their family.
"You have to do what you have to do. We're hearing that the lights won't be on for at least a month, but we have to do what we have to do." said Russell.
"My aunt and I are on a fixed income. But that's how my mother and grandmother were. We're just carrying on the tradition."
Right now, the family is still waiting for word on a member that did not make the trip to New Iberia.
"One of our cousins is 20. He stayed in New Orleans and we haven't heard from him. We don't know if he's living or dead. We're trying to connect but the circuits are down," Russell said.
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