A sense of belonging is key to health and happiness.
“Together we must strive to always help people discover their human dignity…their beauty in the eyes of God.”
Most Rev. Alexander K. Sample
Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon
We all need a place that we can call home, a place where we feel welcome, safe, and supported by those around us. A sense of belonging to a community is key to health and happiness. The Archdiocese of Portland is committed to fostering strong communities. We believe strong communities are built on love
of God and love of neighbor.
Transitioning off the streets and into permanent housing is a positive journey. Yet for those who have been living on the margins, such change often comes with feelings of loneliness, isolation, and anxiety. Starting over in a new place with new people is challenging. In those uncertain moments, even small acts of kindness and connection from good neighbors can make a real difference in people’s lives.
As a faith community, we want to be those good neighbors and walk alongside men and women who are trying to build better lives. We want to provide practical assistance and remind them they are not forgotten or abandoned—by God or by us. We want to be a community that cares, a community that welcomes them.
The goal of our faith-based communities is to accompany those in need. Our practical support will include:
- Encouraging parish support and use of available land for healthy housing projects
- Providing food and stocking food pantries
- Distributing clothing, toiletries, and other essential items
- Assisting with transportation needs
- Organizing social gatherings and other activities to foster strong communities
- Creating opportunities for the wider community to serve and support those efforts
Cooking From the Heart
Since her husband’s passing, Pat has spent more time volunteering at her church, Holy Redeemer, organizing their food pantry and serving warm meals. You see, Pat’s superpower has always been cooking.
She felt compelled to support Kenton Women’s Village, an innovative transitional micro-housing project for homeless women in North Portland, the moment she learned of its mission to help vulnerable women build new lives.
After sharing countless meals and conversations with women who experience homelessness, Pat came to realize that their stories were different than she expected. She learned how vulnerable women of all ages can be to unexpected life events and how the trauma that had turned their worlds upside-down must be addressed before they can move forward.
Pat says, “the courage and hope of these women is inspiring.” She has witnessed the remarkable healing power of community not only for those women driven to get their lives back on track, but in soothing her own grief by selflessly serving those in need.
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