McKinney, TX Shelter Day One
My first impression of the Katrina evacuee shelter in McKinney, Texas as I walked in the volunteer entrance was one of a well organized operation. Picture the interior of a Wal-Mart (which the building used to be) with no shelving units, checkout counters, etc. Instead replaced with sectioned off sleeping areas, couches and TV’s, a large play area for children, a kitchen, a internet cafe, cubicles for various administrative social services, a warehouse of donated clothes, baby supplies, toys etc, and a well stocked medical clinic. It is very secure, with a metal detector and police as security.
My original job there today was arranging transportation for any of the residents(people staying at the shelter) or evacuees(not sleeping at the shelter) that needed it. Mainly people wanted rides to find apartments, homes or jobs in the area. Every day some residents move into apartments or homes, but they are still allowed to come back to the shelter for all of the services it provides. Many of them found that apartment complexes offer them 3-6 months rent free!!! People in the area were also coming in today to offer a rooms in their home.
As the day progressed I ended up doing a little bit of everything besides arranging rides, working at the sign in desk, taking peoples donations to the warehouse in the back, directing new residents to register with the shelter, etc. In the end, I have to say I the most important thing was being a listening ear to the residents there, letting them tell as much of their story as they wanted and encouraging them as best I could. The Lord really gave me the simple words of encouragement for them. Words that I would not have known what to say to them otherwise. I can’t imagine what they have seen, heard, experienced, lost, but I have sensed in everyone of them a strength and thankfulness for what they have, despite all they have lost. The eyes speak a thousand words. I have seen in their eyes today sadness, exhaustion, frustration, fear, determination, gratefulness, love for their families, and hope for the future.
I have to tell some stories about several people I met today at the shelter but I’m too sleepy now. I’ll be working there for a the next 2 days as well with more stories to tell. Pray for these people and the million other evacuees many of whom are starting over.
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