When I stepped into the warmth of the police car I stepped totally out of my comfort zone and into another world, The heater was on high as all of his passengers had been cold. The officer drove me through town so that I could view the destruction. Incredible! When we reached the Shelter at the high school he walked in with me and led me directly to Rick and Tonya Grant. I was warmly greeted and made to feel welcome and cared for and led to hot coffee, which never tasted so good. As I sat in the kitchen I asked Linda Pratt if I could help. I was immediately registered as a live-in volunteer and helped prepare for lunch.
The days at the shelter began no later than 5 a.m. by preparing breakfast. As soon as the clean up was completed lunch started, then supper, not stopping until 7 or 8 at night with only short breaks between. It was very hard work but the most rewarding work I have ever done. The people of the community came to help in any way possible, bringing with them food, games for the children and filling any need that arose. It proved to be a time for me when old friendships were renewed and lasting bonds were forged. I was at the Shelter for 5 days and nights and the most outstanding memory that I have is of total, unconditional acceptance of all people by all people. Three other ladies and I shared a classroom at night and had great "slumber parties", with the conversation lasting into the wee hours. I left the Shelter with very mixed emotions. Exchausted from working at my job in Augusta, working at the Shelter and getting by on very little sheep. I struggled with the feeling of walking away from an opportunity to help others before the job was done.
Now when I see pictures of shelters showing mattresses on floors, in my mind I see pictures of the smiling faces enjoying good food and good conversation. I recall the group of children sitting on the floor eating pizza, and I can see the halls at the high school decorated with pictures the children drew. The media never shows the hard work, the laughter which rings through the halls almost constantly or the snacks and conversations at 1 a.m. and much later.
When disaster strikes, a Red Cross Shelter offers warmth and food, but most importantly, it offers a sense of being surrounded by people who share your situation. You are not alone.