According to a new study by the Urban Institute, nonprofits in Louisiana and New Orleans, many of which were devastated by Hurricane Katrina, play a critical role in providing health and human services to residents. "The Aftermath of Katrina: State of the Nonprofit Sector in Louisiana" analyzes the state of nonprofits in Louisiana. Louisiana is home to about 3,200 charities, which spend a total of $8.7 billion each year and report combined assets of $13.8 billion. The damage to the infrastructure of the city is having terrible consequences in the LA's nonprofit sector. Louisiana nonprofits will need support if they are to continue providing critical services to citizens, especially in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, when needs are high.