Who do you propose SHOULD do the work to re-build New Orleans and the Gulf Coast, if the contractors cannot find workers locally, or who are willing to live in difficult conditions in order to live there while they work? Florida had the same problem two years ago when four hurricanes hit during one season. Many construction projects were delayed because they couldn't find contractors to do the work, and costs doubled and tripled because the demand for building supplies went through the roof.
Maybe some preplanning is in order. Why not have the state or counties keep a supply of building materials on hand for emergencies? Or neighborhoods band together to have supplies on hand? After all, in Florida there are hurricanes every year.
Require citizens to volunteer some time towards rebuilding in their local community/neighborhood.
Habitat for humanity.
Army corps of engineers.
Lousiana National Guard.
Church groups.
Americorps.
CCCs from California.
Out of work autoworkers from Detroit.
College students during the summer months.
Able bodied men on welfare from any state.
Convict "trustee" crews.
Off season firefighting contract crews.
OR Manufactured and modular homes.
That's just in a couple of minutes.
Offer good wages and provide some sort of housing, and they will come.