MEMPHIS, Tenn. (localmemphis.com) – For the folks who have had to stay at Cottonwood Apartments in Parkway Village this was it. They had to go.
Blue is the predominant color.As in blue tarmacs covering roofs that were ripped off during the tornado a few weeks ago. People have helped those who lost everything, but that help can only go so far. Ask former Cottonwood resident Keith Jones. Jones was planning to sleep at his father’s house for a little bit.
“Homeless,” he said. “I am homeless.”
These were not luxury apartments. Working class men and women paid the rent.
When they lost everything, many sought help from the American Red Cross.
Spokesman Bob Wallace said, “We’ve provided financial assistance to folks who have lost their homes, and we can direct them to other city agencies who can help them on a longer term basis.”
Their work is about done. Keith Jones’ is just beginning. He is about to learn how it feels to be someone with nothing.
“I can’t explain it,” he said. “I don’t know what to say. I’m mad. Disappointed.”
Monday, the Shelby County Commission is expected to approve giving more than $150,000 to storm relief.
It doesn’t mean much to this mother of two young children who has more immediate concerns.
Her name is Jomeidda Medina, and she is a wife and a mother of two young children.
“I don’t have no place to go,” she said.
She was asked where she will spend the night.
“I don’t know,” she answered.
“In a hotel? I don’t know.”