Getting to work

Details: 01 November 2013

We have heard it over and over again: the key to staying off the streets is a good job.

Recently, one of our benefactors stopped by the office with a donation and wondered how we are doing. I answered by telling him of a young man we recently assisted. He was living in a local park but was fortunate enough to have found a job. Having been tipped off by another supporter, we helped him with a stay in a local motel since the weather had turned, the security deposit for an apartment, his first month’s rent, furniture and kitchen items to make his new apartment a home. The visitor was glad to hear his donations were helping individuals and families.

The man mentioned above was fortunate enough because his apartment was in walking distance to his new place of employment. Others are not so fortunate. Although bus passes are an option, they are not useful to someone who does not live near a bus stop, or works after hours. In addition, not all cities in the diocese have buses. This is why our St. Christopher Car Donation Program is so important. Since its inception, Catholic Social Services has given countless cars to individuals and families in need so parents can get to work, take their children to school and church on Sundays.

In general, vehicles that are donated to us are given directly to a client, placed in our fleet, or sold and the proceeds used to help fund our many programs.

Unfortunately, cars donated to CSS are outnumbered by the requests. At the present time, in addition to the many requests there are also three women at St. Gianna’s who are in desperate need of a vehicle.

Please pray for the continued success of this important program, spread the word to those you know, and consider donating a vehicle to us if you are able. Remember, it is tax deductible!

We at Catholic Social Services appreciate your help immensely. Please know that we will keep you, your family and intentions in our prayers. St. Christopher, pray for us!