Distribution "Blues"

We filled orders for about 190 families today, which is a pretty average day. Most of those orders include a box of food which is designed to feed a family of four for three to four days, some cleaning supplies or hygiene items. Plus, we are now able to provide towels, pillows and blankets, some dishes, pots and pans, and even furniture. So my day was spent directing traffic, locating special items inside the warehouse, and helping locate and move furniture!

Unfortunately, I don't get time to talk with many of our clients. But I do get to talk with many volunteers. It is great to hear the stories about their congregations, their trips to Mississippi, and their experiences here. I found a large tub of bubble gum which was donated, so each afternoon, I circulate among the volunteers, offering them bubble gum and checking to see how the day is going.

I'm alway glad when someone comes in to work in the distribution center who is willing to take charge of an area to sort and organize. Some wonderful folks have spent days (and days and days) sorting clothing, toys, and miscellaneous household items.

In case of any future emergency, I have one piece of advice to share: Do NOT send used clothing!! We are now spending hours and hours sorting out clothing that was sent to this area. It is an incredibly labor intensive process. We place warm clothing or new clothing, outside in boxes for people to look through. (Imagine a very large rummage sale with no price tags.) If it is worn or stained, it is unfortunately ending up in a dumpster. At the end of the day, we bring in the boxes, and will refill them and put them back out again tomorrow.

The weather, which has been great most of the time we have been here, continues to present the biggest challenge. The roof of the warehouse was damaged by Katrina, and leaks in MANY places. With rain forecast for last night and tonight, we must get all boxes up off the floor onto pallets and then cover everything in the building with big blue tarps. As some of you know, blue has never been my favorite color. Now I have discovered that I really am not fond of "FEMA Tarp Blue"! When we walk back into the building tomorrow, we will have to pull back and roll up all of the tarps before we can begin our usual day. Plus, if it rains outside tonight, it will 'rain' inside all day tomorrow, as the water finds its way through the roof!