McKinney, TX Shelter Day Two
Today I was going to work in the social services section of the Katrina shelter helping residents and evacuees get information online, etc. When I arrived there they said a volunteer from yesterday hacked their computer network setup so it was down for a day. It’s very pathetic that a volunteer would do such a thing, hindering the residents from getting the information they need such as finding loved ones! The remainder of the volunteers and staff have been great and committed to the residents, and this won’t deter them for long.
Instead of social services, I worked the exit desk(residents must sign in and out) and directed new residents/visitors to the proper areas. Many of them were in good spirits today. One family was moving out to an apartment. A large number were returning with new Bibles, all dressed up from church services in the area. Most were enjoying watching the New Orleans Saints football game and whole place seemed to cheer when they hit a last second field goal to win! A nice little escape from their difficult situation.
I have more stories about individuals I talked to, but I think I will wait and write about all of them in the next few days. I will be working in clothes distribution at the shelter tomorrow morning before I return to Illinois Monday night.
