CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Carole Murphrey has been working for the Good Samaritan Rescue Mission since it first opened in the 1970s. Many things have changed significantly since then, not only the size of the shelter but also the number of people in it.
The shelter currently houses 200 people. During the colder months, she asks that remember the homeless population and help out any way they can.
"This year and last year in particular, there are a lot more people on the street," Murphrey said.
The Good Samaritan Shelter can currently house 200 people, but Murphrey said once colder days roll around, that number rises. So much so that when there’s an overflow, they have to lay out mattresses in their dining room to be able to accommodate those who need help.
"Some that are here, they took care of their only loved one until their loved one died, and now they have nothing," she said. "They’re looking for a reason to live another day."
Murphrey wants people to challenge the stereotypes that come with homelessness and recognize the complex reasons behind it. She hopes people understand that they don’t all struggle with addiction or alcoholism, but that most of them face homelessness due to circumstances like job loss, medical emergencies, or lack of affordable housing.
"Nobody plans to grow up and live in a homeless shelter," she said. "There’s always something that has gone wrong. But there’s so much more that has gone wrong than drugs and alcohol, and people tend to think that’s the whole problem. That it’s homeless in general, drugs and alcohol, but that’s not true."
Those who live in the shelter pride themselves in being a part of what they call a family. Here, everyone has a job, like resident Michelle Havner, who prides herself in cooking breakfast every day for her friends.
"I get up at 2 a.m. and I come in here at 2:30 a.m. and start cooking for all the people. I love this kitchen. It’s got my heart," she said.
Another resident, Shanan Zarecor, is passionate about overseeing the kitchen for every meal as the shelter’s kitchen manager.
"It entails a lot: ordering, receiving, cooking, donations, maintaining crews, making sure everyone’s safe and happy back here," Zarecor said. "It’s a lot to deal with, but it’s always fun."
This holiday season, the Good Samaritan Rescue Mission is asking the public to donate warm clothing. Officials also told 3NEWS there is an urgent need for men's clothing.
Blankets, coats, toiletries and food are also always appreciated.
For more information on how to donate, you can visit their website or call them at (361) 883-9493.