Memorial Hall exists solely through admissions and your generous contributions, receiving NO state or Federal funding. The Memorial Hall Foundation was founded in 1984 in order to create an endowment and help support Memorial Hall by making an annual contribution to the museum to help offset the costs of exhibit restoration, building repairs, preservation materials and operational expenses. However, since Hurricane Katrina the museum has depended on the Foundation for much more financial support. Tourism has drastically decreased and thus income from both donations and gift shop sales has been reduced. Without the support of our loyal Foundation members, the doors of Memorial Hall may be forced to close. Donations from Foundation members and history enthusiasts have been the mainstay of financial support for the museum, especially following Hurricane Katrina. Donations help to defray operating expenses while tourism and construction renovations impact the museum's income. All donations are greatly appreciated and acknowledged with receipts. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.