Each year we are asked to join in a community project to provide overnight shelter for the homeless in collaboration with Place of Hope. St. Anthony’s has typically provided this one to two weeks during the winter months. During these weeks, we are also asked to prepare an evening meal at the Place of Hope (old St Raphael Convent) for 60 – 120 persons. Meals can be prepared at home and taken to the Place of Hope or prepared there. Families, youth groups and friends have joined together to make and serve the meals. The appreciation of persons being served is so rewarding!
When working with the overnight shelter, two people stay at the shelter (we have used SEAS elementary school) and welcome people as they are bussed over from Place of Hope at about 9-9:30 p.m. A light snack before bed is provided (donated by parishioners) and night prayers are said together. Lights are turned out at 10 p.m. Some participants will ask you to wake them at 5 or 6 a.m. to get to jobs. The rest are awakened at about 6:30 a.m. and picked up at 7 a.m. by the Place of Hope bus. At least one volunteer is awake at all times to insure the safety of all.
Contact Persons
Hollis Rickbeil (320-251-4921)
Jeff Latzka (320-241-9697)