By Fr. Christopher Kubat
Not long ago, a young woman with multiple small children left an abusive husband and was admitted to St. Gianna’s. Like all of the women who are admitted, she was most grateful. And like all of the women who have children, she was also grateful to have a safe place for her little ones.
One of the perks of St. Gianna’s is the large outdoor playground with a jungle gym and plenty of outdoor playground toys. It is a sight to see, observing little ones playing and the peaceful appearance on their mothers’ faces knowing their children have a safe and secure place to play.
Many of the ladies come to us with not much more than the clothes on their backs. This means they do not have a vehicle. Having a car or van is the key to independence. Without having a vehicle, it is extremely difficult for the ladies to find and keep a job, not to mention taking themselves and their children to doctor’s offices and other necessary appointments and places.
This is where our St. Christopher Car Donation Program comes in. For years, people of the Diocese of Lincoln have been donating vehicles of all kinds to Catholic Social Services. Those that are in good running order we generally donate to needy individuals and families, including the ladies at St. Gianna’s. If a vehicle needs considerable repair work, we sell it and the proceeds are used to fund our many social services programs, or to provide charity grants for those receiving counseling services who are un-insured or under-insured. 
Several years ago, an anonymous benefactor sent us a generous donation that we have been using to pay auto repair bills for needy clients. This has been very helpful, to say the least. Since this fund is running low, we are hoping to have an injection of funds to ensure we can keep this repair fund alive.
As many of you know, Father Justin Fulton has joined CSS as our new assistant director. I am happy to announce he will be one of our new used car salesman/staff. Like our other St. Christopher Car staff members, he will be able to accept, sell, and give away vehicles.
After spending the time necessary to get her affairs in order, the lady mentioned above graduated from St. Gianna’s. After deciding to move out of state with some family members, she was in need of a larger vehicle for her family. After a brief period of prayer, someone donated something perfect. After arriving at her destination, she sent us a picture of herself and her children standing in front of the vehicle we gave her. They all wore big smiles.
I would like to thank all those who have supported this awesome program. Please pray for its continued success. St. Christopher, pray for us!
