By Katie Patrick
When we talk about lasting change or making a lasting difference, it often entails maintaining a long-term commitment, or at least making enough of an investment with significant time or resources that lead to permanent change.
The St. Gianna Women’s Home opened its doors in 2011, thanks to the significant commitment and financial investment by our donors. They were original change-makers who advocated with their time and resources for women and children who had experienced domestic violence or under-supported pregnancies. These “original” change-makers, who opened the door, made it possible for the hundreds of survivors of domestic violence that we have served over the years to become change-makers themselves.
In almost every situation, with every resident that we have welcomed, she needs to feel safe, she needs time to heal, and she needs to receive the encouragement and kindness offered by our onsite staff, and ultimately, she needs to experience the unconditional love of God the Father.
Elizabeth, a fallen-away Catholic, reconnected with her faith during her stay with us. Her children were baptized and received into the Church a few years ago.
Ana was a victim of human trafficking. With very little knowledge of English, she struggled to find resources to escape. Thanks to our bilingual staff at St. Gianna’s, she left her abuser and is now working and caring for her children independently.
Nicole’s partner had fallen into the sin of pornography and became verbally and emotionally abusive. Many of her children were no longer at home, but the damage was far-reaching. Nicole found safety at St. Gianna’s.
Callie was raised on a reservation. Her father abandoned the family when she was little, and her mother was an alcoholic. As an adult, the crimes committed by her abuser resulted in a near lifetime sentence for him. Callie escaped and is raising her five children without having to look over her shoulder.
Linh was betrayed and manipulated by her husband and his family. A friend told her about St. Gianna Women’s Home. She stayed with us for about one year. Linh has since reunited with her parents, returned to school, and is raising two beautiful young children.
Each of these women’s stories reminds us that lasting change doesn’t happen overnight—it begins when someone cares enough to take the first step.
In my short time as executive director, I have witnessed contributions ranging from $20 to $20,000, each gifted with equal amounts of love and concern for those it serves.
I would also like to share that Elizabeth, Ana, Nicole, Callie, and Linh have each given back to our mission in their own way—small, sacrificial gifts that arrive unexpectedly, often with handwritten notes that read—in one example—‘Thank you. Please use this to help women the way you helped me.’
You can be part of this story of hope, too! Each year, we gather to celebrate the Advent season and to lift up women and children rebuilding their lives.
Carole Fest—our largest fundraiser for the St. Gianna Program—will be held Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Church (Newman Center) in Lincoln. This cherished annual event brings together church choirs from across our community for an afternoon of music, faith, and generosity.
Carole Fest—our largest fundraiser for the St. Gianna Program—will be held Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Church (Newman Center) in Lincoln. This cherished annual event brings together church choirs from across our community for an afternoon of music, faith, and generosity.
The St. Gianna Program offers safe shelter, compassionate support, and a path toward healing for women and children who have survived domestic violence or are facing under-supported pregnancies. Every dollar raised through Carole Fest—again, our largest fundraiser for this program—directly supports these families in need.
And if I can make one additional request, consider bringing an elderly parent, grandparent, friend or neighbor. If you work for a nursing home that provides transportation, explore the possibility of bringing residents to the concert. We would love to fill the Church as a symbol of the love and support shown to the countless women and children we have served over the years, as well as for all those we will be there for in the future.
May this Advent season remind us that the love of Christ shines brightest when we share it with others. God Bless!
