After they entered, we gave them a little emergency relief bag from the Red Cross with a toothbrush, soap and small washcloth. They were instructed to sit in a section and were given a number for their family. One by one they were helped (by the salaried Catholic Charities workers) to contact their family here in the U.S and arrange their transport to be united with them.
They then lined up for food. The ladies and volunteers in the kitchen did their best despite never knowing when the next group would arrive. They always seemed to have a bowl of chicken and rice soup prepared, with extra rice and bread. The only drink I ever saw was water.
The people slept overnight on 4 inch thick blue mats that were piled up during the day then laid flat on the floor for the night. Everyone was given the opportunity to take a shower and get refreshed. I still have no idea what they used for towels to dry. The disadvantage of this type of service is that once a volunteer is placed somewhere, they don't have an opportunity to see the other areas.
Because I speak some Spanish I was assigned to the "Farmacia" or pharmacy area. If any of the people needed baby formula of powdered milk—we measured and distributed hundreds on a daily basis—or diapers, baby wipes, toothbrushes, combs, etc., we were always there to give them what they needed. Part of my job was to dispense the over-the-counter medications. Almost everyone came in with colds, cough, runny nose, or fever. Each time I portioned out a cough syrup or Tylenol or whatever. I asked about allergies, complications, and explained about the dosage size and frequency. And they were so patient waiting their turn and so grateful!
One day we received a donation of children's masks in a variety of colors. These people had nothing and no control of their life at this transition moment—and about the only thing we could offer was to the parents to let their little ones select their "favorite color" mask.
In another area of the center they received one fresh change of donated clothes, with a bag to carry them in! At every moment, with everything I witnessed, with every interaction, I realized all that I take for granted, and all the freedoms I take for granted.
My service in McAllen was not anything grand. I responded to the call to help. All I was doing was trying my best to do the Corporal Works of Mercy. (I teach the Catechism and frequently ask the adults in my classes to name the corporal works of mercy.) Actually, DOING them is a whole lot more challenging, and life-altering!!
For me, serving in the shelter opened more than my eyes—this time in McAllen opened my heart! I flew with a major airline to and from Charlotte comfortably. I was put up in a clean hotel, in a private room. I had money to select what I wanted to eat.
One of my frequent prayers has become: "Oh dear God, thank you for all the blessings You (and others) have given me. And forgive me if I am ever ungrateful."
