Magic Johnson is offering jobs to victims of Hurricane Katrina

Magic Johnson is offering jobs to victims of Hurricane Katrina staying at a shelter in Los Angeles, in addition to helping provide them with shoes, food and entertainment.

The Chairman and CEO of Johnson Development Corporation and former NBA superstar told more than 300 families staying at the Dream Center in Echo Park that he would find jobs for some of them.

“We want to make sure that you understand that somebody loves you and cares about you,” he said Thursday. “It may be tough. It may be a little dim and bleak, but you know what? It’s going to be all right.”

 “We’re going to train them first and then place them in jobs,” Johnson said.

Johnson said his s foundation had partnered with a drug store and grocery store to fill prescriptions and provide groceries for evacuees for free.

Johnson signed autographs and met with hurricane victims at the center, where more than 60 additional people were expected to arrive Thursday night.

Johnson Development Corporation is comprised of five distinct enterprises: Magic Johnson Theatres, Urban Coffee Opportunities (UCO), Magic Johnson's T.G.I. Friday's and Canyon Johnson Urban Fund. Johnson Development Corporation is develops entertainment complexs, coffee shops, restaurants and retail centers in under-served markets across the U.S. Execution of these independent activities is accomplished through 50/50 partnerships with several of the most successful businesses in their market categories. Currently, JDC has a presence in 65 cities and 16 states capitalizing on its blends of relationships with Loews Cineplex Entertainment, Starbucks, T.G.I. Friday's and Washington Mutual.