Dear editor,
Earlier this year, during the month of February, this region experienced an unusual period of freezing weather with ice and snow, lingering for over a week. If you are homeless in Milam County, you can navigate much of life, and perhaps remain “hidden” during most times.
However, freezing temperatures forced many to seek help and the warmth and safety of shelter. During that period of time, the Rodeway Inn, Rockdale housed over 25 rooms of homeless individuals, and/or households who had been displaced due to utility disruptions at their homes. While some of the households were self-funding, the homeless and many others were without means to cover motel costs.
Guests who received assistance had addresses from Deer Park, Lexington, Milano, Taylor, Tyler, and Rockdale. In some cases they had family pets who were also victims of the weather. Each story was unique, and in many cases, heart-wrenching.
Jason Hale and the folks at Street Ministries 25:40 led an effort to make sure that those needing assistance, found shelter and food. This could not have happened without the generous support of many people and churches. I am thankful to know that our town was, and is blessed by the following, who made generous donations to make this possible: Sharon Cloud, Joyce Dalley, Barbara Holly, Donna Nichter, All Saints Episcopal Church of Cameron, The Cowboy Church, Meadowbrook Baptist Church, Murray Street Church of Christ, and Street Ministries 25:40/Jason Hale.
Additionally, there were several anonymous donations made to cover hotel costs. The Nguyen family, owners of the Rodeway Inn provided rooms at a significantly discounted rate. It truly takes a village!
I let too much time pass before writing this letter, but still carry gratitude in my heart for all those who stepped-up during that challenging period.
Sincerely,
Dave Mata-Melton
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