3 minute read
St. Elizabeth Center Brings Hope for the Future to Those in Need
At first glance, the St. Elizabeth Center in Lorain may simply be a homeless shelter. But upon closer look, you’ll quickly realize that, as important as it is to provide shelter for men without homes, the mission of the St. Elizabeth Center extends even further. Named for St. Elizabeth of Hungary, who cared for those in need, the St. Elizabeth Center reaches out in a variety of different ways to those suffering throughout our community.
“The center shelters up to 50 homeless men, but also feeds them and tries to help get them back on their feet,” says St. Joseph parishioner Linda Howell, who has been involved with the center for the past 10 years. “The mission of the shelter is not only to help keep our homeless men sheltered, but also to help rehabilitate them, try to keep them off the streets, and give them more options.”
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“[The center’s mission] is to help those who are down on their luck and are homeless, and also to serve families with children that need additional help,” adds Nativity parishioner Diane Kirsch.
Each month, teams of volunteers from St. Joseph and Nativity cook and bring a homecooked hot meal to the men living at the shelter. While this aspect of the ministry was put on hold during the pandemic, volunteers came together to donate food that could be safely distributed.
In addition to the shelter, St. Elizabeth Center also hosts a food pantry, available to anyone in need within the community. Many members of our parish communities donate regularly to ensure that the pantry shelves are fully stocked.
“The pantry is for anyone in the community who qualifies,” Linda says. “It’s important because so many people live in poverty, and have no means to provide for their family. The center warms the heart, feeds the stomach and soul, and makes a difference in the lives of our neighbors who need help.”
At Christmastime, the St. Elizabeth Center collects donations of gifts for local children in need, through the Giving Tree. Some parishioners donate gifts, while others volunteer to wrap and deliver the gifts for the children.
“We have a very giving and generous parish family, and when I heard that there were all these children that deserved a happy and blessed Christmas, I just knew our people would respond and come through for the children,” says Diane, who also coordinates the Giving Tree, among other projects.
For those who are involved with the St. Elizabeth Center, such service is an opportunity to participate in the Corporal Works of Mercy, serving as the hands and feet of Christ to those in need.
“Giving back is the best way to appreciate what you have,” Diane says. “It is an extension of all we have been taught throughout our lives, as we strive to be good and generous people who have been blessed with so much.”
“I love making a difference — I love giving back to my community,” Linda says. “I love helping someone get back on their feet. I’ve been in need and know how it feels to know someone cares and can help — it makes all the difference. God loves all of us and He wants all of us to take care of each other.”
Linda and Diane encourage their fellow parishioners to consider how they might become involved in the important work of the St. Elizabeth Center as the Advent and Christmas seasons get underway — whether by donating or collecting food, cooking meals, or purchasing a gift for a child.
“Give it a try,” Linda says. “There are so many good things that come out of volunteering — mainly, you are helping to make a difference in someone’s life, but also, you are part of a group of people who share in the same love of serving others.”
“It always feels better to give than to receive,” Diane adds. “And you will definitely receive in return.”
