The kindness of strangers, Part II

A Good Samaritan in Brazosport has leased 17 homes for refugees from Hurricane Katrina.

They began arriving in vans from Houston about 3 o'clock this morning.

There are 84 children of various ages. Most heads of families are single mothers.

All are dirty, exhausted, dazed and very likely in shock. They've had little, if any, sleep for the past three days. They either waded or swam through the floodwaters to survive. All are appreciative of the helping hands that have been extended.

One boy, about 9, took a look at the home he was taken to this morning and asked, "How many families are going to be staying here with us."

When he was told, "It's just for you and your family," his eyes grew wide as he looked around the house. All he could do is look to his mom in disbelief.

One elderly woman said he grew worried as the van started taking her south from Houston. She was afraid she was being taken back to Louisiana, but her fears were relieved when she arrived here.

As much as I'd like to trumpet the name of the Good Samaritan who's leased these homes, that will not be done. The Good Samaritan has insisted on anonymity and I have agreed.

The Good Samaritan, however, agreed to talk to The Brazosport News in hopes that we could get the word out to anyone who wants to help.

What's next? That's a good question.

These folks could be here a month or two or three, or perhaps longer. I suspect their stay will be on the long side rather than the short side. They literally have lost everything. The Brazosport school district has said it will get the kids into classes. Some local business people already have agreed to help out.

Since this local endeavor to help just came to my attention this morning, the Good Samaritan asked The Brazosport News to act as sort of a quasi-clearing house to enable those who want to help to do what they can.

If you want to help, send me an email to Banjo.Jones@gmail.com

I may not respond immediately because I have no idea how many people will read this and respond. And, at this point, I wouldn't know what to tell you exactly what to do. If you're already helping through a church or some other volunteer organization, answering this call probably isn't necessary, since you're already doing what you can.

For the time being, I'll collect your names and email addresses and then be in touch with you via email.

Thanks for reading, thanks for helping and I'll be in touch in the coming days.