Why is the Red Cross not in New Orleans?
Red Cross Frequently Asked Questions

"Acess to New Orleans is controlled by the National Guard and local authorities and while we are in constant contact with them, we simply cannot enter New Orleans against their orders. The state Homeland Security Department had requested--and continues to request--that the American Red Cross not come back into New Orleans following the hurricane. Our presence would keep people from evacuating and encourage others to come into the city. .... The Red Cross shares the nation’s anguish over the worsening situation inside the city. We will continue to work under the direction of the military, state and local authorities and to focus all our efforts on our lifesaving mission of feeding and sheltering." [Editor's note: The Salvation Army was also kept OUT. -MLS] (09/02/05)

http://www.redcross.org/faq/0,1096,0_682_4524,00.html#4524