Support Annunciation House in El Paso

Annunciation House

Linda Swindle, Glenn Rosendale and other volunteers from Casa de las Comunidades Catholic Worker House in Albuquerque make frequent trips to El Paso to bring food, clothing and other items to Annunciation House and other organizations in that border community that support refugees. Here is a note from Linda about a recent trip as well as information on how we can help.

February 16, 2019
Dear Friends,

Yesterday, Glenn and I made our 9th trip to El Paso. The shelter/motel which has become our main contact was expecting 120 refugees that day, and expected to need space at a Budget Motel next door to accommodate the group.

A flustered volunteer showed us all the underwear they had to distribute, folded and stacked on a double bed, clearly inadequate to the onslaught of needs she was facing. For a panoramic view, consider that 500 refugees total were expected that day for all Annunciation House shelters.

Glenn will make an extra trip next Friday, February 22, and we both will go again on Friday March 1. We decided to concentrate our donation request on the following:

• UNDERWEAR! children’s and small adults; (don’t forget men’s underwear, both briefs and boxers, colored if possible). Remember that these refugees are small. Youth 14-16 fits most men
• MEDICINES: cold/cough/ decongestants, cough drops, pain medicines in the following categories: infant, under age 12, and adult
• INDIVIDUAL SNACKS for traveling: cases of nutrition bars, fruit bars, Rice Krispy Treats (kids love them); small packets of nuts, cracker/peanut butter kits (eg. “Jif To-Go” at Sam’s Club/Costco, Austin’s Toasty peanut butter crackers)
• INDIVIDUAL SHELF-LIFE MILK BOXES
• SMALL BACKPACKS; also tote bags for adults
• CASH as always, checks ok to “Annunciation House”

If you prefer to contribute by mail, go to annunciationhouse.org where you can donate by PayPal, or mail your check to Annunciation House, 815 Myrtle Ave, El Paso, TX 79901

With exception of Annunciation House, most shelters have no kitchens and rely on local families to supply 3 meals a day (!), we don’t have room for bulk ingredients such as pancake mix.

To arrange contact, text or call Glenn (505-489-8100) who lives in SE Albuquerque and Linda (505-515-6241) who lives in Taylor Ranch.

We are so grateful to have your support and prayers! As 6-month volunteer “Sue” said to us, it’s unimaginable to think of these refugees as criminals. Look at them. They are so hopeful, so thankful for anything, so eager to help.

Bless you all!

Linda and Glenn
Casa de las Comunidades Catholic Worker