Vincentians

Helping families on the brink of homelessness saint vincent de paul 2
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The Catholic Exchange feature: Michael Acaldo talks about the Catholic Way to Address Homelessness
The Catholic Exchange feature: Michael Acaldo talks about the Catholic Way to Address Homelessness 1080 720 SVDP USA

The Catholic Way to Address Homelessness: An Interview with Michael Acaldo

Published in the Catholic Exchange December 26, 2024 by author and writer Joshua Nelson 

omelessness is a growing crisis in the United States, with over 580,000 people experiencing homelessness on any given night, according to Notre Dame’s Lab for Economic Opportunity. Rising housing costs, mental health challenges, and systemic poverty have left countless individuals and families vulnerable. Yet, in the face of this daunting reality, the Catholic Church offers a unique and deeply compassionate response, rooted in the Gospel and embodied through organizations like the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP).

Michael Acaldo, the newly appointed CEO of SVdP USA, has dedicated more than 30 years to addressing homelessness. His leadership reflects the Society’s longstanding mission to meet people where they are and prevent homelessness before it begins. Drawing on his faith and decades of service, Acaldo views homelessness not merely as a social issue but as a profound call to live out Christ’s command to love one another.

A Catholic Framework for Addressing Homelessness

The Catholic perspective on homelessness begins with recognizing the inherent dignity of every person. This principle, articulated by theologians such as St. Thomas Aquinas, stems from the belief that all humans are made in the image and likeness of God. As St. Vincent de Paul himself said, “Go to the poor: you will find God.”

For Catholics, the solution to homelessness must go beyond providing temporary relief. It involves affirming the dignity of those in need through compassion, community, and long-term support. Pope Francis has frequently urged Catholics to see the face of Christ in the poor, reminding us in Evangelii Gaudium that “the worst discrimination which the poor suffer is the lack of spiritual care.” This insight underscores the dual nature of Catholic service: addressing both material and spiritual needs.

SVdP’s Mission: Prevention and Compassion

At the heart of SVdP’s approach is homelessness prevention. Michael Acaldo emphasized the importance of early intervention: “When someone becomes homeless, it’s much harder to help them out of that cycle. But a little investment—a rent payment, utility assistance, or a hot meal—can turn the tide before a crisis spirals out of control.”

SVdP’s Home Visit program is a cornerstone of this mission. Volunteers, known as Vincentians, visit individuals and families in their homes to assess their needs and provide personalized support. This model, established nearly 180 years ago, is a powerful example of Pope St. John Paul II’s teaching in Sollicitudo Rei Socialis: “Solidarity is not a feeling of vague compassion or shallow distress at the misfortunes of so many people, both near and far. On the contrary, it is a firm and persevering determination to commit oneself to the common good.”

Through their work, Vincentians often uncover hidden struggles, such as families without enough food, children sleeping on floors, or individuals unable to afford medical care. Each encounter is an opportunity to restore dignity and stability. As Acaldo put it, “Every person is a person. They’re not an object; they have their own story. And we meet them where they are.”

The Role of Faith in Action

For SVdP, addressing homelessness is not just about social service—it is a spiritual mission. “We’re a spiritual organization first,” Acaldo explained. “Our work is rooted in love and the Gospel call to see the face of Christ in those we serve.” This spiritual foundation inspires Vincentians to approach each person with humility, accountability, and hope.

One of SVdP’s most moving traditions is beginning home visits with prayer. Often, the individuals being served lead these prayers, expressing a profound faith that transcends their circumstances. Acaldo shared how one person, on the brink of eviction, prayed, “Lord, I knew You would send help.” Such moments reveal the deep connection between service and evangelization, a concept echoed by St. Teresa of Calcutta: “If you can’t feed a hundred people, then feed just one.”

A Broader Catholic Response

The Catholic Church’s response to homelessness also involves advocating for systemic change. Acaldo highlighted the need for policies that address rising housing costs, mental health care, and disability support. He emphasized that preventing homelessness is not only compassionate but cost-effective, saving society money while preserving the dignity of individuals and families.

In addition to advocacy, the Church encourages simple acts of charity. Many Vincentians carry small care packages in their cars—water bottles, granola bars, and information on local shelters—to offer immediate aid to those on the street. As Acaldo explained, “The smallest gestures can make a world of difference. A bottle of water or a kind word can remind someone of their worth.”

Stories of Transformation

SVdP’s impact is best illustrated through the lives it touches. Acaldo recalled the story of a man in Baton Rouge who, on Christmas Day, asked to call his mother in Minnesota. Homeless and alone, the simple act of reconnecting with his family brought him to tears. “It was like giving him a million dollars,” Acaldo said. Another story involved a legally blind British citizen stranded in Louisiana after a hurricane. With SVdP’s help, he was reunited with his family in Great Britain, a testament to the organization’s commitment to seeing every case through.

A Call to Action

The Catholic Church invites everyone to participate in the mission of serving the poor. Acaldo urged readers to visit svdpusa.org to find local councils, volunteer opportunities, and resources for starting new SVdP chapters. He also encouraged Catholics to pray for those in need and for the volunteers who serve them.

As Pope Benedict XVI wrote in Deus Caritas Est, “Love of neighbor . . . consists in the very fact that, in God and with God, I love even the person whom I do not like or even know.” This love, embodied by SVdP, transforms not only those who are served but also those who serve.

Conclusion

Homelessness is a profound challenge, but the Catholic approach—rooted in compassion, prevention, and spiritual care—offers hope. Through organizations like SVdP, the Church continues to be a beacon of light for those in the darkness of poverty. By responding to Christ’s call in Matthew 25, we can help ensure that every person has not just a roof over their head but the dignity and hope that come from being truly seen and loved.

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Making a difference: heading towards Christmas
Making a difference: heading towards Christmas 1280 853 SVDP USA

Making a difference: heading towards Christmas

Published in the Catholic Herald December 15, 2024 – Story by Michael Acaldo, CEO of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA

December is a special month for the Society of St Vincent de Paul. Helping those in need is a year-round mission for Vincentians, but there’s a bit more excitement in the air when you’re handing out gifts to grateful, smiling children.

Before becoming the CEO of the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVdP) USA this year, I spent thirty-four Decembers leading SVdP in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Each Saturday, we would distribute presents to thousands of children – many wearing worn and tattered clothing that I suspected they had slept in the night before. For some of these kids, this was the only gift they would receive all year, and that reality never failed to leave a lasting impression.

But it wasn’t just the children who received some care. Adults did, as well. Few things are more humbling than standing before a big, worn-down man with his Christmas gift in his hands and tears in his eyes – for that’s when you see the face of Christ staring back at you.

I’ve been reflecting on these memories this Advent. In recent weeks, I’ve gone coast to coast to meet with many of our 90,000 Vincentians in the US. In doing so, I’ve seen firsthand the commitment, sacrifice and love that they show day in and day out.

It has led me to ask some simple, but important, questions. Why do so many people give of their time and treasure to help their neighbors? Why do they enter homes that are often in areas of town most people would avoid? Why do they make the journeys of the poor and outcast part of their own personal journeys?

The answers are found in the stories of Vincentians like Rosie Martina. Rosie is 101 years old and, with the help of his daughter and son, he continues to make food pickups each week. When Rosie’s wife died a few years ago, he asked me to say a few words at the Saturday morning funeral. That very evening, I found him serving a meal to men experiencing homelessness at one of our shelters. I asked him what he was doing there.

“This is where Laura would want me,” he said. “I’m doing her job – and mine.”

In effect, he was meeting Christ in the people he served in that food line, and in turn, Christ was showering him with the grace that abounds to those who follow His command to love our neighbor.

There are Rosie Martinas all across our country – from Phoenix, Arizona, to Dayton, Ohio, to Baltimore, Maryland. They come in all ages and all demographics. They bring different talents and treasures. And they understand that by helping others, they receive more than they can ever give.

This is the heart of the Vincentian difference.

While Vincentians run thrift stores, shelters, and even pharmacies across the country, the true joy and impact of our work comes through our Home Visit encounters, where we meet people where they are – literally – to gain a better understanding of who they are, what they need, and how we can help.

While these Home Visits are rooted in the Gospels, they’re also part of a practical strategy – one aimed at providing people with the often-small amounts of help they need that is the difference between staying housed or not.

Research by the US National Alliance to End Homelessness reveals that it costs an average of $35,578 per year to support a person who is chronically homeless, including costs for emergency shelters, healthcare, and law enforcement. In contrast, preventing homelessness through early intervention costs, on average, $2,000 per household.

Sometimes it’s a simple act that makes a difference. In one Home Visit, a Vincentian I know noticed that a woman’s mobile home needed insulation. The simple act of installing the insulation lowered her electric bill enough to keep her housed.

These are the fruits of accompaniment, and they ripple through the nation every day, affecting countless people – not the least the Vincentians themselves, who are uplifted by the act of uplifting others.

I’m especially blessed this year. I have the honor of being a part of an organization that will celebrate its 180th anniversary in the US in 2025. And earlier this month, I welcomed my first granddaughter into the world. She is already surrounded by the comfort that comes with a close group of family and friends. Yet, when I gaze at her, all bundled up in swaddling clothes, I’m mindful of those who don’t have others to lean on in the way that she will.

It can be discouraging. But then I remember the words of Blessed Frédéric Ozanam, who founded the Society of St Vincent de Paul in Paris in 1833: “The problems in front of us are infinite, and we need to be up to those challenges.”

The men and women of St Vincent de Paul are, indeed, up to the challenge, and our work goes on. Merry Christmas from all of us, when it comes.

Michael Acaldo became CEO of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul USA on October 1. Prior to that he was the CEO of the SVdP Council of Baton Rouge. He joined the Vincentians in 1990.

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Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA climbs Forbes’ Top 100 Charities List
Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA climbs Forbes’ Top 100 Charities List 1920 1920 SVDP USA

Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA climbs Forbes’ Top 100 Charities List

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA earned a second consecutive appearance on Forbes magazine’s annual list of Top 100 Charities in the United States, climbing to #59 this year from #75 last year.

SVdP USA received a high charitable commitment score of 89% from Forbes, meaning 89% of SVdP’s total expenses have gone where it matters most: directly to servicing people experiencing poverty. Forbes’ annual list serves as a trusted resource for helping readers distinguish which organizations are worthy of their donor dollars.

“This exciting accomplishment is not just for the organization — it’s also for every single donor, supporter, and neighbor we serve in His name,” said National President John Berry. “It’s a testament to the generosity and compassion our nearly 90,000 Vincentian volunteers have put forth to help their communities, the thousands of hours of providing person-to-person service to our neighbors, and the dedication to creating a more just world.”

SVdP USA has been at the forefront of providing personalized support to underserved communities for more than 150 years, and this legacy of service continues to grow with the tireless efforts of its Vincentian volunteers. Last year, the faith-based organization served more than 5 million people through a variety of its programs including food pantries, shelters, homelessness prevention initiatives such as rent and utility assistance, Home Visits, and more.

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NFL Players wear custom cleats to support St. Vincent de Paul USA
NFL Players wear custom cleats to support St. Vincent de Paul USA 750 1075 SVDP USA

NFL Players wear custom cleats to support St. Vincent de Paul USA

During Weeks 13 & 14 of the National Football League games of the 2024 season, NFL players are wearing custom designed cleats in honor of a cause near and dear to their heart. This initiative is through the My Cause My Cleats campaign.

We are grateful for the support of NFL football players Abraham Lucas with the Seattle Seahawks, Jon Runyan with the New York Giants, and Zach Tom with the Green Bay Packers. These spectacular players are taking philanthropy to the next level by wearing custom designed SVdP cleats in honor of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA!

The custom designed SVDP cleats worn this season by NFL player Jon Runyan, Guard for the New York Giants, are open for bidding through December 31st. BID NOW to get your hands on this original pair of shoes: https://givebutter.com/c/svdpusa_runyan

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CEO Michael Acaldo featured on Yes Catholic podcast
CEO Michael Acaldo featured on Yes Catholic podcast 1440 1440 SVDP USA

Embracing Faith and Service: Michael Acaldo’s Journey with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul USA’s CEO Michael Acaldo was recently featured on the weekly podcast Yes Catholic.

“During my 34 years of being a Vincentian in the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, I have met so many good people and had the opportunity to witness ordinary people doing extraordinary things…I have been surrounded by people that have put their faith into action by sharing Christ’s love to the most vulnerable. This has shaped me in a remarkable way…”

Listen to the full episode as he shares about his inspiring journey of faith and service:

Yes Catholic S2, E46: Michael Acaldo on Apple Podcast

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12-05-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
12-05-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

My dear Vincentian Brothers and Sisters,

As we enter this sacred season of Advent and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, we are reminded that this is a time of joy, love, and celebration. Yet, for many among us, the holiday season can also be a time of profound difficulty and pain. It is a season that magnifies the joy of the lights and the gifts in the eyes of little children, but it also magnifies the burdens of poverty, loneliness, and sickness in those who suffer. As followers of Christ, we are called to recognize those who struggle and to respond with compassion, love, and action.

The holiday season, marked by abundance and generosity for many, often highlights the stark contrast of scarcity for the poor. The material demands of this time — gifts, decorations, festive meals — can become a source of stress and sorrow for those who can barely make ends meet and provide the essentials for their families. As Proverbs reminds us, “Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him” (Proverbs 14:31). The poor are not forgotten by God, and neither should they be forgotten by us.

Jesus came into the world in poverty, born in a humble stable, laid in a manger because there was no room for His family in the inn. His very birth teaches us that God identifies with the lowly and the marginalized. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” This is our mandate: to see Christ in the poor and to extend to them the love and care that we would offer to Christ Himself.

For those who are lonely, the holiday season can be particularly painful. This is a time when families gather, friends reconnect, and communities celebrate together. But for those who are isolated — whether through the loss of loved ones, estrangement, or circumstances beyond their control — this season can deepen their sense of separation and despair.

In Psalm 68:7, we read that “God sets the lonely in families; he leads out the prisoners with singing.” God’s heart is for the lonely, and as His hands and feet on earth, we are called to reach out to those who are alone. A visit, a phone call, an invitation to join in a meal or celebration can transform someone’s holiday experience. These small acts of kindness remind them — and us — that they are not forgotten, that they are loved.

For those who are sick, the holiday season can be a reminder of what they cannot do or participate in. While others celebrate, they may be confined to hospital rooms or homebound by illness. The physical and emotional toll of sickness can feel even heavier in a season meant to bring joy.

Jesus was a healer, both of bodies and souls. He was moved with compassion for the sick, as seen in Matthew 14:14: “When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.” While we may not have the power to heal as Jesus did, we do have the power to bring comfort. A visit, a prayer, or simply sitting with someone in their suffering are a profound expression of God’s love.

During this season, it is easy to focus solely on monetary giving. Financial contributions are essential and deeply appreciated. But as followers of Christ, we are called to go beyond writing a check or dropping off a bag of food. We are called to personal encounters with those in need.

In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus emphasizes that love for our neighbor is not abstract; it is active and personal. The Samaritan did not merely feel pity; he stopped, bandaged wounds, and provided care. He entered into the suffering of the injured man. This is the kind of love we are called to show, especially during this holy season.

There is a transformative power in giving ourselves — our time, our attention, our presence. In Acts 20:35, Paul reminds us of Jesus’ words: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” When we take the time to truly see and serve those in need, we are blessed in return. We find Christ in these encounters, and our hearts are enriched by the love we share.

Let us not forget that Jesus Himself modeled this for us. He dined with sinners, touched lepers, and spoke with outcasts. His ministry was one of personal connection and compassion. As we celebrate His birth, let us imitate His example.

How then can we respond to the needs of the poor, the lonely, and the sick this season? First, we can pray for God to open our eyes to those in need around us. Second, we can take action. Visit someone who is homebound. Volunteer at a shelter. Invite a neighbor to share in your holiday meal. Offer a word of encouragement to a struggling parent or a grieving friend. These acts of love are the true spirit of Christmas.

As we await the coming of Christ, let’s remember that He comes to us in the guise of the poor, the lonely, and the sick. When we serve them, we serve Him. May we be His light in this dark world, His hands to the weary, and His heart to the broken. And may we find joy, not just in receiving, but in giving ourselves to others. Not just in the holiday season, but always.

Peace and God’s blessings,
John

John Berry
National President

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10-31-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders
10-31-24 A Letter From Our Servant Leaders 1200 1200 SVDP USA

BOO! I am your scariest trick-or-treater! Yes, I’ve been told that I have a face for radio.

It’s that time of year, and today’s the day that we’re going to see the little gremlins coming to our door, yelling “trick or treat.” I can’t wait for it to get started. Much like our upcoming elections, it’s exciting and scary at the same time.

We are in the midst of a chaotic, tumultuous time in our nation. We need the Society of St. Vincent de Paul more than ever. No matter what the outcome of the upcoming elections, we will be called upon to be the face of Christ amidst the exuberance of winning, the depression of defeat, celebrations, anxieties, and anger. As Vincentians, we need to be the hopeful voice and the peaceful face.

Like you, I am weary of all the focus and hype surrounding the election. The never-ending television commercials, the mudslinging in social media, and the talking heads who continue to hype the contests. In the spirit of full disclosure, I am a political junkie, but even I have reached my limit. I am ready to cast my vote and wish that Election Day would be over.

Depressed yet? Fear not! On November 6, the Vincentian mission will be needed more than ever. Regardless of the election outcome, our calling is to See the Face of Christ and Be the Face of Christ: to help our friends, neighbors and family realize a better, brighter future with God’s help. We can be that model of Faith, Hope, and Charity to feed their souls. The good news is that we are well trained, Home Visit veterans, and we are ready for this challenge. If anybody can do it, we can!

I recently attended the National Board of Directors’ retreat. The experience was inspirational, filled my heart with joy, and prepared me to go out to spread the Word as part of the St. Vincent de Paul mission. Like my fellow Vincentians, I’ve had the opportunity to visit those with corporal needs and have had the blessing to be able to provide for them. The time will soon be here when we will all have many relationship opportunities to act: calming the emotional highs and lows, toning down the rhetoric while lifting up those around us.

Remember to put on your spiritual armor. Don’t forget that we need to be centered on our own inner peace first before we can help others. Consider this Bible verse as a prayerful way to prepare:

“Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

Lastly, I strongly encourage you to vote, but just as important, to stock up on candy treats for all those happy little monsters, princesses, and superheroes coming to our doors. Happy Halloween!

Thank you for all you do in His Name — may God bless you,
Michael

Michael Pazzaglini
National Vice President, South Central Region

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SVDP Council Spotlight: Baltimore
SVDP Council Spotlight: Baltimore 1078 720 SVDP USA

As a single mother to a grown, autistic son, Sarah faced a heartbreaking reality.

Sarah had been commuting all the way across town for work. But then, she got divorced and that commute was no longer feasible. Her son couldn’t be left alone that long, so she had to choose between her job and caring for her son.

Unemployed and unable to pay the bills, Sarah and her son were evicted. Suddenly homeless and without support for her son, Sarah was living her worst nightmare.

When a friend told Sarah about St. Vincent de Paul Baltimore, everything changed. SVdP helped them find a new place to live and helped Sarah get a job close to home.

Sarah and her son are just a few of the thousands of people served by SVdP Baltimore each year.

More than 2,500 people are experiencing homelessness in the Baltimore region.

Families and individuals lose their homes for a variety of reasons, from unemployment to illness or soaring utility bills. That is why the Baltimore Council of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul offers a wide range of homelessness prevention programs and shelter services. Last year, SVdP Baltimore:

• Operated over 10 programs focused on housing and homeless prevention
• Provided 71,175 emergency shelter nights
• Helped hundreds of families with rapid rehousing, and supportive housing programs

St. Vincent de Paul has a national reach that extends from local Conferences to regional Councils, supported by SVdP USA’s overarching programming. Thanks to the generosity of donors who support our outreach at every level, we provide more than just basic shelter to families in need. Most importantly, through our work, these families are shown the abundant love of Christ.

SVDP USA PROVIDES SUPPORT TO REGIONAL SVDP COUNCILS THROUGHOUT THE UNITED STATES, ENSURING LOCAL COMMUNITIES ARE EQUIPPED TO CARE FOR THOSE IN NEED. THROUGH CREATIVE PROGRAMMING AND CARING OUTREACH, COUNCILS LIKE SVDP BALTIMORE ARE FIGHTING BACK AGAINST HOMELESSNESS ONE FAMILY AT A TIME.

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I Am a Vincentian (Spanish version) -Video-
I Am a Vincentian (Spanish version) -Video- 1080 1080 SVDP USA

¡Gracias vicentinos!

During this Hispanic Heritage Month, we give a special shout to our Hispanic and Latino American Vincentians, celebrating the special contributions and talents that they bring to SVdP Conferences across the country. Our Spanish-speaking and bilingual Vincentians are indispensable in serving our neighbors in need. ¡GRACIAS for all that you do!

 

Translation: Our Vincentians are saying “I Am _(name)_, and I Am a Vincentian.”

 

 

Erika Aldana, SVdP Long Island NY

Javier Lerch, PhD, National Homelessness Committee

Lalo Rodela, Formation Renewal and Delivery Committee

Claudia Ramirez, CEO of SVdP Contra Costa CA

Julie Bennett, CEO of SVdP Madison WI

Luis Gonzalez, CEO of SVdP North Texas / Dallas

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Encountering Our Neighbor -Video-
Encountering Our Neighbor -Video- 1080 1080 SVDP USA

Encountering Our Neighbor

Hear what three Vincentians – John, Dr. Ken, and Marge – have to say about their heartfelt experience serving a neighbor, and how that has shaped their time with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

John Berry, National President:  

We had opened up a brand new food pantry in Atlanta where I’m from and we had a woman that was coming through and it was a client choice food pantry, so we were walking with her and helping her choose. And we had a refrigerator cabinet that we had cakes and those kind of things in because the local supermarket had donated them to us and we always made those available to people. And this woman came up to the refrigerator cabinet and she started crying. And we were like “Oh You know what happened. What did we do?” And she started sobbing and she said “Tomorrow is my daughter’s birthday and I never thought I would be able to afford to have a cake for her birthday.” So we got her the cake and then we went to the warehouse and we got a bicycle for her to give her daughter for her birthday and it was just something that, you know, when she left, we all looked at each other and said this is what it’s all about. This is what it’s all about.

Dr. Ken Snider:

Well, one little girl, she came up when she was 10 years old and she had a cleft lip and a cleft palate. And I wish I could say if I have the before and after pictures. So when I examined her, I didn’t want to hurt her feelings by bringing notice to the cleft. So when I I finished examining her, I said “Honey, have you ever heard of braces?” You know, she shook her head. And I said “Well, we can do that. I said we can’t, you know, take everyone. But if you’re interested, I might be able to get you in.” Well I’m the dental director I can get them in, but if the kids aren’t interested, even if the parents want it, they’re not going to maintain it and everything. You know, there’s limited resources. And so she started to cry. And I thought I hurt her feelings. And the staff person said no, she said those are tears of joy. She thought this would never be possible for her. Then her mother came in, and her mother started to cry. We were all crying.

Marge McGinley:

So I met this beautiful person who was in need and when we got to her home we could tell she was conserving every penny, because each room had a curtain to conserve the air conditioning in that room. And we visited with her and she said “You know everybody that I’ve dealt with from Saint Vincent de Paul has been so kind. Like the people that answer your phones, everybody is so kind.” And I said, “Well, of course we are. Because for us, you are the face of Christ. We’re meeting Jesus when we meet you.”  And she started to cry. And she said “No one has ever talked to me so kindly.” As we were leaving, she said “I just have one more question.” And I said OK, and she said, “Can I join you? Can I can I help other people? I know I need help but can I help somebody else because I want to be able to see Jesus.”

Dr. Ken Snider:

Yeah, I mean it’s priceless. When you put your head on the pillow at night and you think, wow, you know. How did I? How did God grant me the blessing to be part of this, you know. And it truly is a blessing.

John Berry, National President:  

I mean the encounters run the gauntlet from the Home Visits that we do, the thrift stores that we operate, the food pantries that we operate. Each one of those is an opportunity for us to touch humanity and for humanity to touch us, because our growth through that service is really the ultimate most important thing that we do is grow spiritually.

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