by Leslie Farin

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A state of emergency

As unprecedented winter storms blanketed Texas, bitter cold temperatures, widespread power outages and burst pipes caused problems for many. Texans need food and water, and shelter where they can ride out the crisis.

My heart, warmed by the many people near and far who contacted us personally to ask how they might help, is full.  Well meaning people surfaced from unexpected corners of the world, and though I may not be able to thank everyone individually, you know who you are. Please know we greatly appreciate your caring and concern.

We are among those who were without heat for almost a week, and still have no water. Neighbors offered us housing without hesitation, and when we returned home, brought us boiled water to brush our teeth and cook. We are very grateful to live in a community that pulls together in times of crisis.

Lesson learned

It turns out leaving the house was a mistake. Who knew? Texans don’t generally have below freezing temperatures. We hunkered down by the fire with mounds of blankets for days, then finally dragged our frozen bodies to a warm home with hot water. We did not leave our faucets open while out of the house for the one night as we worried about doing so; as a result a number of pipes burst. The pool, only partially frozen when we left, fully froze during our absence, damaging the motor.

We are the lucky ones

The unfortunate reality is we are the lucky ones. Damages can be fixed. I don’t know when, but at some point I know they will be. Until then, I am working to remain positive and keep my sense of humor. For example, the plumber gave me a window of time when he planned to arrive, which was “between 7am and midnight Sunday, but please understand if we don’t make it until Monday or Tuesday and meanwhile, try to find someone else”.

Ha! We’ll be here…Sunday through Tuesday and probably longer. Where can we go? And find someone else? Really? There is no one else. Texas is actively recruiting plumbers from other states to come help. This situation is one for which no one was prepared. All you can do is laugh. Why stress about something over which we have no control?

Our issues are an inconvenience, but so many are truly struggling without heat, food and water. Many of these people already had difficulties before the storm from Covid-19 related issues and lack of income. The storm made their situation that much worse.

For those who want to help and are able to do so without hardship, below is a list of organizations that could use your support.

WHERE TO DONATE 

You can give to any of the organizations listed below (in no particular order):