Katrina Guests Update 9-9-05

Congresswomen Anne Northup visits with our Guests

Katrina Update 9-9-05

Today Nina showed a Hispanic couple from Mississippi our dining room. One of the Hispanic children already placed with us came up to him and said with a smile on his face “it’s goooood!” The husband then asked if it was free? She then answered “yes, it is all free”. I thought how wonderful it is to live in a community that can support such an effort as this and then to be able to say “yes, it is all free.” The man’s wife gave Nina a hug after seeing their new room and said, “this is beautiful.”

Several additional families, a couple, and three single males entered the Mission’s facility today. Most that enter are exhausted, first taking a shower or bath. Then they rest, followed by a walk through our supply room, gathering much needed toiletry items, clothing, shoes and many other necessities. A couple from New Orleans entered exhausted and full of grief, tearfully wondering about the future.

So far the TLC and the well prepared and stocked facilities, the listening staff and volunteers help to calm the waters and spark some hope. Faith is critical to rekindling that hope and trust that God will see them through.

We have been trying to get our phone company to donate 4 lines into the facility for use by the residents and their helping professionals. As our numbers grow the additional lines have become critical. I was to get a call back from a Bell South representative before the close of business. It is now 9:00 PM and no one is in their offices. My experience with Insight Communication was wonderful. We requested cable for the victims and they were installing the cable before the day was over, all at no charge, just wanting to help the victims. Waste Management has increased our trash disposal without a charge. With only a few exceptions, local business and venders have bent over backwards to help. What a blessing it has been for these fellow citizens during their time of need.

Several persons have begun to volunteer as Hospitality Helpers on the residents’ floor. They are wonderful people, giving up their time so freely.