By Katie Patrick
Recently, I encountered a client I had once helped. After exchanging pleasantries about work and family, she confided in me. I had presumed she’d entered the U.S. with refugee status, so I was surprised to learn that until last week, she had been waiting more than 10 years on an asylum case.
A recent decision by immigration officials determined that she was no longer permitted to lawfully remain and work in the United States. She received a written request to gather her belongings and make arrangements to return to her country of origin. She is a single parent, and the letter said nothing about what would happen to her young children. We ended our conversation with no clear path forward, other than to consult an immigration attorney as soon as possible. Stories like hers are why Catholic Social Services (CSS) offers immigration legal services in the first place — so that no one has to face a moment like this alone.
A few hours later, I received a call from a client who was unemployed and whose husband was undergoing surgery to remove the lower part of his leg. Because insurance couldn’t cover the cost of a ramp for their home, she needed assistance. I was able to connect her to a government program that might help if they meet eligibility requirements. If not, CSS will step in.
One of my final encounters that day was with a former CSS volunteer. I found her shopping at our thrift store, collecting household items for a homeless gentleman she was helping move into a new low-income apartment. I completely forgot to ask how they were connected — mostly because I was too busy trying to load her up with everything I could. (I love seeing merchandise leave our store almost as much as I enjoy seeing donations come in!)
The constant in these encounters isn’t unique to me. Sure, working at CSS puts me close to those who need assistance, but the real constant is presence. It’s listening, encouraging, staying informed, and — most importantly — praying. You, reading this article, can do all of those things too.
My three-part series earlier this year in the Southern Nebraska Register identified three layers of support: The Family — the first, most enduring, and most effective source of support (March 27); Neighbors Helping Neighbors — the second, most enduring source of support (April 3); and What Happens When Family, Neighbors, and Community Are Not an Option (April 10). The good news is that you can be active in all three layers. You can pray for and support family members in need. You can be mindful of those in your neighborhoods and social circles who need a friend — at work, at home, or at school. And for the third layer, you can support the mission of Catholic Social Services through acts of charity.
Pope Leo XIV frequently echoes the message of his predecessors, reminding us that in all circumstances and places, Christians must hear the cry of the poor. If you haven’t yet, I encourage each of you to read Dilexi Te (“I Have Loved You”), the apostolic exhortation of Pope Leo XIV on love for the poor — a completion of the work begun by Pope Francis.
There are opportunities all around to help neighbors in need. You just need to know where to look, and you find those places by opening your heart and asking, “Lord, how can I serve you today?” He will provide — I believe that with all my heart.
It just so happens that one event is coming up quickly. Join BetterLife Insurance and the Lincoln Knights of Columbus at Pius X High School in Lincoln Saturday, Aug. 8, from 10 a.m. to noon for a fun finale celebrating the year-long parish food drives for the CSS Food Market. Lace up your sneakers — each lap you walk earns funds from individual and corporate sponsors, and we’re aiming for a combined goal of 150,000 pounds of food and dollars for the Food Market. There will be food, games, and plenty for the whole family, making it a great way to engage your children in the Works of Mercy. No registration is needed, but you are welcome to bring nonperishable food items to donate. We hope to see you there!
