May 2019 Newsletter

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Six New Neighbors

Michael, Catherine and their four sons were traveling south on I-5, looking for a fresh start in life. Their home was a trailer in tow of their truck. Michael was in search of work. At about 1am, somewhere south of Roseburg, their truck caught fire. They took the next exit and put the fire out with an extinguisher. The exit had no services and their vehicle was not drivable. They called 911 for a fire truck and assistance. By 3 or 4am, they were towed to the truck stop in Green and sandwiched between two tractor-trailers. This family of six then lived in their trailer in that very spot for nearly three weeks. Their insurance did not cover the vehicle damage. By default, they had found the place of their new start. This family in crisis became Douglas County’s neighbor, a part of our emergency services, truck stop, social services, schools, and Roseburg Rescue Mission. Michael went to our men’s shelter, Catherine and the boys to our Samaritan Inn.

Our whole community became a neighbor showing mercy on these strangers traveling in our midst. The Biblical story of the Good Samaritan is actually one of a local person, in need of help, being cared for by a traveling stranger. It is as much a message of learning to receive help from strangers as it is to be merciful to them. As long as this family was mobile, they were independent. It was only when trouble stranded them, that they sought help. Most of our clients are local people.

Michael worked day labor to get immediate money to care for his family. Before long, a company representative was scouting for laborers at the Mission. They contract to various local vineyards and do landscaping maintenance. He had regular work and was able to move their trailer onto that company’s property. Their family life was reasonably stable for a time. Michael said his job ended, so they returned to the Mission with a new plan. He started his own lawn care company, so he could better manage the stress of his anxiety and depression. Catherine took a four week course to receive her certification of Nursing Assistant. She had an instant job at a local nursing home earning $14.20 per hour.

This Christian family has become part of a local church. They enjoy our Mission chapels. Michael likes the music and message that cause him to think about the subject. Catherine and the boys attend a children’s chapel in a family pod here, separate from the main chapel at Samaritan Inn. They watch 30 minute videos of Veggie Tales, McGee & Me, or other Christian movies. (Video donations needed). And the boys keep singing those songs throughout the day. We all have six new, productive neighbors that just needed some temporary assistance to be independent again.