The Harry Tompson Center is committed to providing a calm and caring environment in which to serve the needs of the poor and homeless in the downtown New Orleans area. The Center is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all those who come to us in need, not merely by responding to physical needs, but also by attending to the whole person with respect and compassion, after the example of Jesus.

Merry Christmas? Yes!

                It’s been a strange Merry Christmas for the poor in New Orleans.  It’s December 12 and I just heard from my friend Stephanie at the Worker Resource Center that they’ve begun demolition of the first public housing complex, B.W. Cooper.  That’s three days sooner than what they announced, probably an attempt to beat the protesters.  In just one week, December 21st, Duncan Plaza is slated to be cleared for yet more demolition.  That means 150+ people being asked to leave the only home they have, be it their tent or blankets or whatever meager materials they have managed to live on.  As I was reminded of at the free holiday concert yesterday over at the Baptist Church, these factors only compound the fact that Christmas is already a difficult time for those who survived Katrina as it is a reminder of the life and friends and family that was lost or irreversibly taken by that storm. 

But all of this is what’s happening on the surface.  As Advent reminds us, Christmas is ever a time for hope. And no one gives me hope like the people I meet at the Harry Tompson Center.  I see in them as much joy and hope as ever.  There is no shortage of love here!  It’s perhaps not the most ideal place, but I’m glad that we can be a safe and loving home in some capacity for those in need this holiday season.  In my action and words, I try to remind them every day that they matter and are special indeed.  New Orleans may seem like the Grinch that stole Christmas sometimes, but I believe that Christmas is something we carry in our hearts and experience through the love we share with one another, especially those in need.  And that is a gift that nothing, even bulldozers, can never take away.
Dan Thelen 2007-12-12

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