Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s...for many of us these are joyous times spent with family and friends. But for some in our community, the holidays bring uncertainty. At our Sojourner House, La Crosse Warming Center, and the Good Shepherd Shelter, hundreds of people will spend this holiday season with us seeking warmth, safety, and hope.
Eau Claire – Sojourner House
Take Tommy, from rural Chippewa Falls. A good student, his senior year took a turn as drugs became more important than academics. After graduation he spent years couch surfing, burning bridges, and losing jobs. With nowhere else to go, Tommy arrived at the Sojourner House. Initially timid, he began opening up to our staff who connected him with drug rehab resources. Now, though he still stays with us, Tommy has been clean for over seven months and is actively applying for jobs in the community.
La Crosse – Warming Center
Gerry, born and raised in Holmen. Gerry loved the outdoors but never imagined he would be living there. Ongoing mental health struggles made it hard for him to keep a job, eventually leading him to our La Crosse Warming Center. While staying with us, Gerry saw a flyer for local mental health services for low-income individuals. After encouragement from our staff, he connected with a mental health professional, started medication, and now feels more at peace. Gerry is actively looking for a job and hopes to have a place of his own by the next holiday season.
Wausau – The Good Shepherd Shelter
Paula, born and raised in Wausau. Despite working three jobs, rising rent forced her into homelessness. Paula turned to the Good Shepherd Shelter where she stayed for six weeks. With the help of a Financial Advocate from our St. Lawrence Services program, Paula created a budget, found housing, and is now sharing an apartment with a cousin—ready to spend the holidays in a home she can call her own.
Stories like Paula’s, Gerry's and Tommy's are not uncommon. This year, thousands of lives in our communities have been transformed by our services. However, as needs grow, so do our costs. Will you help us continue this vital work during our Homeless for the Holidays campaign? Whether through an increased donation or prayers for our ministry, your support will bring hope to those in need. From all of us at Catholic Charities, we wish you peace and joy this holiday season!