Katrina Guests Update 9-12-05

One of our guests began a new job today. Many others are interviewing while their children are beginning school. It has been a major adjustment for them all but as each day passes it seems a little easier. Knowing that there is a nice place to sleep, three meals served daily and a lot of people wanting to help goes a long way in allowing people to adjust to the crisis and move forward. The Mission had three case managers working with people into the night. We have several Spanish speaking families and our lack of translators slows our work. Any one that can translate would be a very welcome volunteer. We also see the need for people willing to provide activities for children. A volunteer tonight sat down with three young children and played a board game. Two Lay Counselors from Southeast Christian came and began to help people feel loved and sort out problems. Brother Pat Wright with the Cathedral also came and visits with several guests and will be working on providing weekly mass and other deacons to assist. Jeff Tang came and worked the desk and did a great job supporting the young people. It is about 9 PM and about three dozen adults and youth from local churches are working on the first floor sorting canned goods and preparing supplies. Our community is truly blessed with a host of wonderful people.

I know with God’s help that our guests will get through what has happened, but it will always be with them. Some will remember that they had help and were touched by a caring community. Please keep these people in your prayers. They are wonderful guests in our community.