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Casa Marianella, home of immigrant community support
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The end of tiny Gunter street on Austin’s East Side was congested with cars and pick-ups parked and turning around. I paused and waited for the traffic to clear before I passed the house that seemed to be attracting a number of visitors. Casa Marianella, it said on the front. I wondered aloud, “Is that a restaurant?” My housemate informed me that it is actually a home for Central American refugees. 
Indeed, priority clients of Casa Marianella are political refugees from Central America and some have come from Bosnia and Africa. The adult house acts as a transitional home for these immigrants who have often endured a physically exhausting and mentally demanding journey. Despite the difficulties they encounter, the majority of residents are in stable housing after just a month.
The nature of Casa Marianella as a community resource is the primary reason for the success of its residents. In addition to providing shelter, the organization distributes donations, offers employment advice and support, assists asylum seekers, and directs clients in need to local service organizations. Casa Marianella has built a strong network of support over the course of its twenty-three year existence. These community webs develop the backbone of a strong immigrant support group that grows exponentially through generations of experience.
For more info: Visit casamarianella.org
Photo from casamarianella.org/casa-facility.asp
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