What is this place? I’m not sure I understand, but I do feel the presence of God here.
Throughout the difficult journey from my country through Mexico, I never once slept soundly. My family presented ourselves at the border crossing in Nogales and requested asylum because we’re afraid to return to our home, it’s so dangerous there. The officers loaded us on a bus with other families and brought us to la hielera, a cold place where they took away our shoelaces, hair ties, belts, and sweaters. We were supposed to sleep on the hard concrete floor with a hundred other people, which of course was impossible. After three days they put us on another bus and brought us here.
What is this place? As we drove in I thought it was another jail. But the banner over the door reads Welcome to Casa Alitas! We were greeted warmly and welcomed with smiles and hugs. The large room had church pews to sit in. I don’t think this is a church, but it feels like all the best things about church. There’s a friendly Padre working here, and a singing nun. They even offered mass in the garden. I’m not Catholic but mija wanted to sing with the other children, so I let her.
The people here gave us water, oranges, and a brothy soup to eat. So soothing after the nasty food they gave us in la hielera. A kind woman welcomed us all and reassured us that this is a safe place, not run by the government. A doctor looked at my son and gave him medicine for his cough!
Each family was brought to their own room, with clean sheets on the beds. I can have private time with my children—finally! There’s also lots of space here where my children can play, with toys and books and chairs nearby so I can watch. They can even play outdoors in a large courtyard! Best of all, this place has a huge garden where they grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers. It reminds me of my garden back home.
After we all showered, we went to the clothing store. The helpers there were so friendly, trying to speak Spanish with us and helping us find new clothes. They told me that it’s cold in Ohio where my brother lives, and they made me take sweaters for everyone in my family, plus winter coats, too! I can’t imagine wearing a sweater and a coat at the same time. We even got new shoes—all for free!
Someone helped me call my brother, and asked him to buy bus tickets for our family to go to Ohio. They tell me it’s far away, and will take three days to get there. While we waited for our turn to go to the bus station, the people here served us dinner—healthy food with meat and salad and fruit. They even invited us back for seconds after everyone was served!
Last night I finally slept. It was so good to know that my children and I were all safe, well-fed, clean, and warm. I dreamt of home when my husband was still alive. Today the people here served us breakfast, and packed bags full of food for the next part of our journey. They even gave us blankets in case it’s cold on the bus! In one hour someone will drive us to the bus station. I’m so nervous, but happy, too. Thank you, Casa Alitas, for welcoming my family and helping us get to safety!
Banner photo credit: Many thanks to Siobhán Bertone
All other photos: Vicki Witte
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