After worship a young homeless woman had spoken to Don asking for help in finding housing. She had ridden a bus from California and had found her way to Hartford with no place to stay. Don offered to take her to a shelter and I went with them. A call had been made to find that South Park Inn had 2 beds for women, so we thought we had a solution. Well, South Park Inn wouldn't take this young woman because one has to first go through 211 for social services to assign her to a shelter. Don was on hold with 211 for 15 minutes or so and we decided to take this young woman to the Cathedral's Church Street Eats for some food. She was well received there & eventually talked directly to 211 personnel who proceeded to do a long intake interview.
Being at Church Street Eats was like old home week, as I saw Rose and many old friends. After 20 or so minutes on the phone, the young woman indicated 211 would need to process her information and it might take the rest of the day or days. They were to call her back. We then set out for a motel where Don paid for her stay tonight and would check back with her tomorrow. The 211 system needs work, and fortunately this young woman found a priest who could and would help. Where does one get help in a crisis? Don and I then headed for lunch and I got home from my church adventure around 4 pm nourished and fed in many ways.
Tonight I joined the Farmington Valley American Muslim Center for their Iftar breaking of the fast meal. It was a wonderful night of prayer and hospitality. My Sunday was full and filled me. Tomorrow I head for time in VA to visit my mother and stepfather, returning to CT for more sabbatical adventures. My prayers are with you all.
Linda