The Little Things in Life

Details: 03 May 2013

As stated previously in this column, we are celebrating our 80th year as an agency, as Bishop Louis Kucera started Catholic Social Services in the midst of the Great Depression to relieve the suffering of individuals and families.

Bishop Kucera started Catholic Social Services for only one reason – he knew that everything we do to the least, we do to Jesus (Mt 25:31-46). We are excited that our new pope chose Francis as his new name, emphasizing the importance of sacrificing ourselves for our neighbors, especially for those who are most vulnerable.

Last year, because of the love our benefactors have for Jesus who is present in the poor, CSS has helped around 28,000 individuals a number of ways.

Many people and families come to us with big needs. Many are on the verge of becoming homeless and need help to stay in their homes. Since starting St. Gianna’s Women’s Homes, many are women who are trying to save their babies, protect their children and save their lives from their abusive husbands or boyfriends. While only in our second year, we have, with the grace of God, helped directly save 16 babies from abortion. The women and children who are at St. Gianna’s respond to the love the Marian Sisters and volunteers give them.

Not all of the requests for aid are big, though. Sometimes, it is the little things in life that are needed.

Several weeks ago, during the period of well-needed rain, a homeless man came into the office and met with Curt Krueger. He was miserable because his socks were soaked. I bet most of us know what it is like to have wet socks. It is a source of suffering, especially if it is cold outside. This was the case in this instance. The temperatures were hovering in the 30s.

In short order, with Curt’s help, the man’s feet were warm and dry. Curt’s next concern was the status of the man’s stomach. What did he want, you ask? A warm cinnamon roll with frosting, of course. Fortunately, we had some. The man then left us, happy.

When Curt told me about this fellow, it reminded me about another man who lives in a group home nearby. He stops here every day for something to drink, and sometimes for a sandwich. He also knows I’m often in the office on Saturdays. Despite knowing we are closed, he peeks into the front window to see if I am here. I usually see him walk up, and so I have a cool bottle of juice waiting for him. As I have gotten to know him better, I have learned more about his life. He always leaves us joyful and thankful.

Whether it is help with emergency services, rent, utilities, helping one escape or avoid homelessness, help with a needed vehicle, help after a natural disaster like the ice storms of the past, or with food and clothing, or with counseling services for someone who is not insured or underinsured, or with many other services we provide, we are ready to help because of the love and generosity of our donors – even with the little things in life, like dry socks and a cinnamon roll.

Thank you for helping us love Jesus who is present in the poor. Please be assured of our prayers for you, your families, and your intentions!