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A new grant-funded program gives clients the chance to train on the job and develop new skills
Clients have a chance to receive job training as well as affordable rent through the ministry. Most jobs are at the ministry, including security, maintenance, office administration and food service positions. The program is particularly important because it simultaneously addresses housing and employment.
Clients will learn job readiness skills and apartment/housing responsibilities. The ultimate goal is to help clients achieve self-sufficiency.
Security staff person at Sacred Heart Village II Mel Salem had a serendipitous start to the program. Former House of Joseph I resident, Mel was working in Florida with Hurricane Michael disaster relief.
He originally went down to visit family, but ended up staying after the hurricane hit. He was chatting on the phone with then House of Joseph I staff
person Jason Hefflefinger. Deputy Director of Programs John Bates walked into Jason’s office to ask if he knew anyone that would be a good candidate for the House of Joseph Training Program.
Jason just happened to be on the phone with that perfect candidate.
Mel laughs as he recalls that the job seemed to fall into his lap. At Sacred Heart Village II, Mel is a now a familiar face.
“The main objective is to make sure that the elderly people that stay there remain safe at all times — making sure they don’t fall and hurt themselves and making sure that we see everybody,” says Mel.
Mel’s favorite aspect of working at Sacred Heart Village II is interacting with the residents and being a part of their daily lives.
“You share regular stories with regular people,” says Mel. “I like that.”
He also appreciates that, though he has to stay professional at work, the residents and staff are so genuine that it’s easy.
“You’re dealing with real people, and I think that’s a big difference,” says Mel. “It’s not like a business setting.”
He adds that the people involved with the training program have helped him the most.
“It’s given me an opportunity for a position that wouldn’t have normally been available to me,” says Mel. “It gave me a way in to the ministry, in which I have the opportunity now to grow into another position — be promoted.”
Though he does have his eyes set on a future promotion, whether at the ministry or at a different workplace, Mel is in no rush as he enjoys his current job. Sacred Heart Village II Manager Sister Margaret Mary Graney, OSB, adds that she enjoys Mel’s enthusiasm with the residents.
“He’s eager to learn the ropes,” says Sister Margaret Mary. “He’s very pleasant and respectful of the residents. I’m grateful to have him on staff.”
Sister Margaret Mary also finds that the House of Joseph I Training Program gives ministry clients a step up in their transition.
“They’re providing housing and job opportunities, get them on their feet to possibly move on,” says Sister Margaret Mary.
She laughs and adds: “Not that I want him to.”
Thank you, Mel, for working with such an upbeat attitude and kind heart!
The Project WILD workshop introduces a new curriculum to encourage kids & teachers to actively engage in nature
Project WILD is under the Association for Fish and Wildlife Agencies. Its goal is to educate people of all ages to make educated decisions about the natural world around them.
“I love science and nature myself and we’re always trying to enhance our science nature curriculum, especially young people,” says Paulette. “We don’t see that a lot in our program so a lot of the activities were geared for children five and under, and since we’re serving that population, I thought it was great.”
The curriculum “involves social, emotional, physical, language, and cognitive domains to help foster learning and development in all areas.” Interpretive Programs Manager at Bellevue State Park Claire Mickletz walked the staff through the curriculum, including several activities for the kids in ministry programs.
“It’s very hands on, so this was introducing them to curriculum, teaching them how to use the curriculum, and hopefully having them think how they will use it in their classrooms,” says Claire.
Claire laughs as she recalled that a couple staff members were squeamish during an activity.
“Sometimes people are a bit scared of things like spiders and ants, which we did do activities on today, so just getting them out and excited about nature is mainly my personal goal,” says Claire.
Paulette added that she wants the kids to know that things are growing, moving and shaking.
“They need to understand that there is a bigger world that is outside of the city of Wilmington,” says Paulette.
A specific activity she is intrigued by is looking for animal tracks, particularly in an urban area like Wilmington.
“It’s going to be really cool to see if we can find tracks on our playground or for those parents that take the nature walks to see what kind of tracks they’ll find — outside of a bird or squirrel,” says Paulette.
She’s excited to see how the teachers use the curriculum to enhance their current lessons.
“This came across as something that can be used in all areas – music, movement, art, math, there was a take home for parents, there was a snack idea, so it can be used across the curriculum,” says Paulette.
Paulette’s biggest lesson learned was “That it’s okay to get down and dirty — nature is great!”
Thank you to Claire and Paulette for organizing this training, we’re excited to see the kids actively engage with nature!
George Ghebreslassie received an award for his campaign work on behalf of Eritrean immigrants
George recently traveled to Washington, D.C. for both a celebration and demonstration with people of his home country, Eritrea, located north of Ethiopia in eastern Africa. His fellow Eritreans knew about George’s campaign work for immigrants, and presented him with a special award.
“They surprised me,” he laughs.
George has been campaigning for immigrants for quite some time, but became more involved when a friend from Oakland, California, contacted him. The friend asked George if he would listen to a live Facebook video of a pregnant woman crying out for help. She was eight months pregnant and had never been to a doctor.
George appealed to two United Nations agencies — the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) — to help this woman.
“They assigned an ambulance in Libya,” says George. “They went to her location, they picked her up and they took her to the hospital.”
George smiles as he recalls receiving a picture of her healthy baby.
But the work didn’t stop there — not when there’s an estimate of 5,700 Eritrean immigrants in Libya at the hands of human traffickers and smugglers. Many of these immigrants have serious illnesses and suffer physically, emotionally and psychologically.
George started receiving more messages via Facebook from immigrants and refugees asking for help. He felt that he had a responsibility to assist them in finding safety and to welcome them.
George opened a shelter in Libya to welcome new arrivals. He named the shelter after his daughter, Surbana.
George’s hard work and sacrifice has not gone without struggles.
“The most tragic thing that happened was that war started in the middle of last month,” says George. “There was heavy war in between two militias. In the middle of the war, we had 769 immigrants.”
Those immigrants were left without guard at a center in Libya. George told them to stay united, keep only one cell phone on and arm themselves with a white flag. In the meantime, George appealed to IOM to provide the immigrants with five days of food, and then another five.
During the second set of five days, unidentified militias shot 22 of the immigrants George was helping at the center. Those injured were taken to the hospital for treatment. Though six of the injured have gone missing, 10 of them will receive resettlement soon, with hopefully many more to follow.
Hundreds of Eritrean immigrants are coming to Canada and Italy; however, these are only women and children. George says that unless countries welcome more refugees, immigrants in Libya might be trapped in the middle of militias and warlords. The detention centers shut off water lines, cut off electric city and let the immigrants go hungry for days.
“It’s hard to talk about what we’re going through, but when you see success at the end of the day that’s when you feel ‘Oh, I should keep pushing,’” says George.
Part of George’s motivation for his international work is his own story. When he was 9, he left his family to live with his aunt in Asmara, the capital city of Eritrea, to continue his education. He then came to the United States in 1999 and worked in New York.
When asked about how he came to the ministry, George laughs: “That was another miracle.”
He was on his way to Washington, D.C. when George received a call from two people: a priest he knew in Eritrea, who had relocated to New York, and Brother Ronald. They asked him to come to the Ministry of Caring. George had to ask the driver where he was. The answer was: Delaware Memorial Bridge.
Brother Ronald and the priest picked him up at a gas station on Martin Luther King Boulevard. George returned for an interview and has been working in the ministry’s finance department since then.
“All the services we provide, I learn so much from this organization, that if I stand myself for those people who need help, I can make a difference with the help of God,” says George.
George is now working on a media channel for immigrants and refugees seeking to connect with each other and resources. He saw a need for such a connection when an Eritrean immigrant was shot and killed in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and had no contact information for his family.
“That elevated my spirit to stay connected with all agencies across the East Coast,” says George.
George has also recently met with seven Congress people in D.C. to prevent the U.S. deportation of Eritrean immigrants.
Though juggling his international work with his work with the ministry is difficult, George says: “I’m grateful to have good people who understand my case.”
Thank you George for your work in and out of the ministry!
The group of sisters from Philadelphia aided Brother Ronald in starting the Ministry of Caring
Brother Ronald needed the help of sisters to create a space for those experiencing homelessness or poverty to live and get back on their feet. Sister Corda Marie sent a letter to her sisters asking for help, and three of them volunteered to live on the top floor of Mary Mother of Hope House I to be its first staff.
“We saw that as a ministry of helping the needy and the elderly and young people who were in trouble,” says Sister Corda Marie.
Sister Connie Davis, OSF, arrived at Mary Mother of Hope House I when one of the sisters there took leave for a year. She welcomed the women arriving at the shelter and helped them with any needs.
“I wanted to be supportive of them and they really appreciated that,” says Sister Connie. “We ate with them — we were very much living with them. There were good memories with these women.”
Sr. Connie said she is proud of how far the ministry has gone and still is grateful for the experience.
“I learned,” says Sister Connie. “It was a wonderful ministry. It was new, and it was exciting to be a part of that. We knew it would grow from that.”
At that time, Mary Mother of Hope House (II & III were yet to come) had room for only eight women at a time. Today, they’ve expanded with the addition of the house next door and the third floor to house 24 women.
Some of the other sisters who lived and worked in the original shelter were Sisters Eva Fink, Euthalia (Catherine) Cassidy, Marie Francis Gallagher, Mary Cordula Brand and Ann Marguerite Gildea. Sister Mary Cordula Brand, OSF, made her mark at the ministry by suggesting to Brother Ronald to transform the abandoned Wilmington Fire Department Station No 8 into a second Emmanuel Dining Room at Second and Jackson streets.
Sister Ann Marguerite Gildea, OSF, would go on to work in Mary Mother of Hope House II and Mary Mother of Hope transitional housing as its first director. At that site, she helped women learn to transition from an emergency shelter to independent living. The women did their own laundry, cooked their meals, created budgets and paid bills. Hope House II was dedicated to women with children.
Without the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia, the ministry would have struggled to grow as much as it has. We thank them for their steadfast determination to care for those experiencing homelessness. Brother Ronald believes they are the heart of the Ministry of Caring, since they are the hallmarks of the compassion and kindness they have shown to our guests.
Sister Gretchen, known for her gentle spirit and voice, retired from the Ministry of Caring
Sister Gretchen came to the ministry after leaving office work at Holy Rosary School in Claymont, which was at risk for closure in 2003. Before then, she had taught in different classrooms for 30 years. Another Franciscan sister suggested the Ministry of Caring, which was just opening Il Bambino.
“I had never dealt with infants before so I thought ‘Well, this would be something different,’ and it was different,” says Sister Gretchen.
She recalls how an older co-worker teased Sister Gretchen for telling the babies ‘I’ll be there in a minute!’
“She had six or seven children of her own, and grandchildren, and she said ‘Sister, they don’t understand “wait a minute!’” laughs Sister Gretchen.
She says that Il Bambino quickly grew in the months after opening. She had four infants to take care of, which included changing them, making sure they had proper medications, keeping the facility clean and documenting all care-taking tasks.
In 2005, Brother Ronald asked if Sister Gretchen would like to work as a receptionist at the former Church Street location. Sister accepted the offer. Though she didn’t have much computer knowledge beforehand, she was up to the task and learned even more when the administration building on 14th Street opened.
“At Church Street, we only had six people to work with and four phone lines,” says Sister Gretchen. “To me, it was an enormous change from six people to 25 people and 25 phone lines. Sometimes I felt like I worked at Philadelphia International Airport!”
Sister Gretchen found it important to always greet incoming calls in a positive and hospitable manner. Though many never saw her, they knew Sister Gretchen by her comforting voice.
“Many times, that’s just what people want you to do, is listen to them,” says Sister Gretchen. “You may not be able to solve their issues, but they want you to listen to their issues – and in some way, help them or direct them.”
She is grateful that she was exposed to adverse life experiences through her work at the ministry.
“I never realized what an individual could be going through in their life,” says Sister Gretchen. “And oftentimes, they want to share it with someone. I think that was the greatest thing I valued – that people would share, verbally, their experiences.”
As for the future, Sister Gretchen will continue volunteer work at the Ronald McDonald House, which serves families of critically ill children visiting the area for medical treatment and care. She has connected well there because she has lost family members to cancer.
“I’m looking forward to using my time well for the benefit of others,” says Sister Gretchen. “And connecting with relationships with family and friends.”
As a volunteer at Ronald McDonald House, Sister Gretchen prepares for breakfast, speaks with the families and attends to their needs. Sister Gretchen plans to expand her volunteering in the fall but will miss “the spirit of giving that is evident at every site. Or the spirit of self-giving, I should say.”
Thank you to Sister Gretchen for caring for the babies at Il Bambino and always making our guests comfortable when visiting or calling the admin building.
Her loving heart and listening ear are an example for us all.
The Milk Run returns to raise money for the Ministry of Caring’s Milk for Children Fund and the Food Bank of Delaware’s Backpack Program
The Milk Run sprouted when former President of the New Castle County Farm Bureau Scott Unruh learned that the ministry no longer had funding to purchase milk for children in the morning. The next president, Stewart Ramsey, grew the Milk Run into reality when he recruited the Delaware Farm Bureau Foundation to help.
“It was a team effort,” says Stewart. “We exceeded our goal of $10,000 the first year and in later years added the Middletown Neighborhood House. The board wanted to impact more people. It’s now a statewide program.”
The Milk Run receives generous sponsors from farmers, grocery stories, milk processors, and other individuals. The foundation finds the Milk Run important because it helps to provide children with protein and nutrients such as calcium, potassium, B12 and vitamin D. Their goal is to make sure children start their day with a glass of milk.
As a result of this fundraiser, the foundation has donated nearly 360,000 half-pints of milk to ministry programs.
“You catch the bug,” says Stewart. “I feel good about helping them. I know they appreciate what we do.”
The foundation finds it gratifying to see runners and walkers of all ages participating in the Milk Run.
“Even when it’s pouring rain as it was in 2017, the participants enjoy the exercise and striving to do their best,” says Stewart.
The foundation does much for the Delaware community in addition to their mission “to promote and protect Delaware agriculture.” They “contribute to the Delaware Food Bank, participate in Mountaire’s Thanksgiving for Thousands, stock the cupboards at the Ronald McDonald Room at BayHealth Kent General Hospital and donate toys to patients and their siblings at Nemours Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children at Christmas.”
Stewart also grows an acre of about 20,000 ears of corn for charity — donating most of the ears to the ministry.
We thank everyone at the foundation for attending to the nutritional needs of children in Delaware, as well as all the participants and volunteers who made the Milk Run successful.
Ellie Corbett Hannum lead the charge to raise over $12,000
On May 3, almost 100 competitors walked or ran in the 5K or participated in the Adventure Challenge Relay. Before the event, Ellie spent countless hours talking with people about ministry programs and donations.
“I tell stories to some people,” says Ellie. “I try to gear them [the stories] to the person I write them to.”
She once told a story about two young boys who came to Emmanuel Dining Room while Ellie and her husband were serving breakfast. The boys sat down without eating and cried.
“We all have these things to deal with,” says Ellie. “It’s harder for people who have to think about where they’re going to sleep and what they’re going to eat.”
The man she told the story to donated $250.
Ellie believes that everyone has the responsibility to care for others in need. As she grew up, her family could barely afford the five children they had. She shared a bedroom with her siblings until she was 11.
“I believe it’s what we’re supposed to do,” says Ellie. “I’m extremely grateful for my life. If I can help anybody else, it’s the least I can do.”
Ellie chose to fundraise for the ministry because she and her husband serve breakfast at Emmanuel Dining Room every Wednesday.
“Everybody is extremely committed to doing the best they can — keeping things neat and clean, being cheerful and treating people like how they want to be treated if they went to a fine restaurant,” says Ellie. “I see this first-hand.”
She admires that the ministry doesn’t just feed people, but shelters them and cares for their children through other programs.
“You have to feed people before you can do anything else,” says Ellie. “Everybody has to eat.”
Ellie noted that she was particularly grateful for the company she works for, Veritext Legal Solutions. The company allowed her to fundraise during work hours and supported her work with contributions.
“They are committed to other cities and towns doing charitable fundraising,” says Ellie. “I like that. We all have a commitment to serve our community.”
At the end of the fundraising, Ellie and the Veritext team received top honors with a grand total of $12, 250. Thank you to Ellie, Veritext and all others who contributed to the Delaware Charity Challenge!
Aubrey Plaza joined with her former 4-H team to serve lunch at Emmanuel Dining Room West
Quietly helping among them was actress Aubrey Plaza.
Born and raised in Wilmington, Aubrey was heavily involved in 4-H and even served at Emmanuel Dining Room. Known for her role as April in the TV show “Parks and Rec,” Aubrey wanted to come back to her hometown to give back with her former club. Aside from spending time with a former 4-H-er and role model, 4-H State Program Leader Douglas Crouse said they came to Emmanuel Dining Room because 4-H-ers truly love service.
“They’re very active,” says Douglas. “They look for ways they can help make a difference. They look for ways to help people that are less fortunate than them and they love to give back.”
The young adults certainly proved that as they served food to guests at Emmanuel Dining Room and gave kids at the Child Care Center piggyback rides and plenty of hugs.
“4-H is a great building ground for youth to learn about what’s happening in the world and to develop what they want to do later in life,” says Douglas. “Many of these youth, even though they’re doing this kind of service work now, they’ll continue to do it in their later life, too.”
Sisters Destiny and Dakota Carmona are prime examples.
“I learned that we’re helping a lot of people just by contributing your time,” says Dakota. “I’m going to be here for an hour just working — I’m going to be feeding a lot of people. I find that amazing.”
Destiny recognized that everyone needs help.
“It doesn’t matter where you come from or what you do, everyone needs help somewhere,” says Destiny. “It’s always good to give back.”
Thank you to Delaware 4-H and Aubrey for making time for those in need. We look forward to working with 4-H in the future!
With preliminary approval funding, the renovations will include the interior, exterior and an accessibility addition
Kevin Wilson of Architectural Alliance gave a presentation about the project last week to the Quaker Hill Community Association, with a similar presentation the next night to the separate Quaker Hill Historic Preservation Foundation. Each of the groups later voted unanimously to support the House of Joseph Residence project when its plan is considered by the City of Wilmington.
Bayard Marin, founder/president of the preservation foundation — the same group that last year honored Brother Ronald Giannone, OFM Cap., and the Ministry of Caring for restoration of Josephine Bakhita House in that historic neighborhood — also offered to give his support in person.
The Delaware State Housing Authority has given preliminary funding approval for the project, which the ministry expects to finish before the year’s end, Deputy Director Chaz Enerio said.
The project includes extensive roof work and systems improvements, as well as window replacement that keeps the historic look of wood frames. Shutters and shutter dogs also will be repaired and refinished.
The building’s seven units will get new kitchens and bathrooms, as well as flooring, paint and any needed repairs. A short accessibility ramp with railing will be added for the largest unit — matching the existing front door rail – to make the apartment comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The new ramp will lead to the small, attached office building, with an indoor, electric lift for wheelchairs. The new railing, Wilson noted, also will be set back from the front of the building to protect and add space for the appreciation of the building’s historic marble facing.
Take a look at the tradition of the Emmanuel Dining Room Auction and read about the recent success
After many months of planning, the ballroom was buzzing as eye-catching gift baskets, artworks and other prizes nearly overflowed tables lining the walls, especially the table of sweets and treats donated by ministry paralegal Annie Halverson, otherwise known as “the chocolate chip cookie lady.” Guests chatted happily over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres as they bid in the silent auction, bought raffle tickets and eyed the specially selected items for the live auction after dinner. And many thanks to Delaware Senator David L. Wilson for driving up from Sussex County to do the honors as the event’s auctioneer.
The April 7 event, which raises about a third of the annual operating budget for the ministry’s three feeding sites, carries on a tradition nearly as old as Emmanuel Dining Room. Thirty-seven years ago, Brother Andrew Jamieson, OFM Cap., was helping Brother Ronald with the ministry, working full-time as the Emmanuel Dining Room director. Brother Andrew knew Emmanuel Dining Room needed money and told Brother Ronald he had heard of a charity in Pennsylvania that collected all kinds of donations, then auctioned them as a fundraiser.
They agreed to give it a try.
Just weeks later, on October 8, 1982, the ministry’s first major fundraiser netted $9,402, with a top prize vacation package selling for hundreds of dollars. As the area’s first of its kind, media dubbed the event “the Granddaddy of Delaware Benefit Auctions.”
Thanks to everyone who supported this important fundraiser, helping Emmanuel Dining Room’s three sites to serve more than 160,000 nutritious meals every year, always with a warm welcome and no questions asked. We also commend honorary chair Peg Tigue, chair Michelle Modesto, co-chair Laura DelPercio and Emmanuel Dining Room Program Director ReeNee LaFate.
This year’s auction also had added significance: It supports Emmanuel Dining Room in its 40th year of operation – having served more than 7 million meals to men, women and children who otherwise might have gone hungry.
Children’s author Cynthia Kreilick visited the Child Care Center to ask for feedback on her upcoming children’s book
Based out of Philadelphia, Morning Circle Media’s goal is to provide children with early literacy and introduce them to cross-cultural experiences. Many of their books are in different languages. Cynthia noted that it is critical to ask for direct feedback from the demographic that will be reading the story.
“We like to go out to early learning programs and get feedback from the staff and from the children about what they thought were good parts of the story, what they thought could be improved,” says Cynthia. “Several little kids and staff gave us suggestions on how to improve the manuscript before we go to print.”
Cynthia led the group through the story of a man who kept getting lost on his way to take a new lens to the lighthouse. One child exclaimed that his favorite part was “. . . when the woman at the lighthouse said ‘What took you so long?’”
“I’m surprised when kids from the city know what a lighthouse is and can appreciate boats and the sea,” says Cynthia. “I think it’s wonderful for them, even though they don’t live near the ocean, to imagine the beautiful landscape.” She was also surprised the kids knew what a fun house and a Ferris wheel were. The only item they didn’t know was the outhouse and when it was explained, several giggles ripped across the room. The story critique not only benefits Cynthia, but the children too.
“They get to see a live author,” says Cynthia. “They get to feel part of the story-making process, that they contributed something – some of their ideas to make the story better.”
Cynthia expressed her appreciation for the illustrator, Laura Eyring, who was unfortunately unable to make the trip. Laura chose to work with water colors for “A Lens For a Lighthouse.”
“We’ve gotten a lot of compliments on the style of the illustration — that it’s not computer generated — somebody’s using their hand and their imagination to create these beautiful illustrations,” says Cynthia.
At the end of the story, Cynthia revealed that she brought a second surprise for the Child Care Center: bubble boxes. The kids folded up boxes that contained soap, crayons and a coloring page. Thank you to Cynthia for bringing a creative opportunity for the kids!
All child care programs engaged in a training focused on leading children through conflict resolution
Paulette once took a two-day training on the Flip It! strategy through the Devereux Center for Resilient Children and thought it would be beneficial to figure out how to diffuse difficult situations.
“We all came together to learn about the strategy using real life scenarios such as ‘What do you do if a child is biting? What do you do if a child is running out of a classroom?’” says Paulette.
Flip stands for Feelings, Limits, Inquiry, and Prompts. The strategy leads a child to recognize their emotions and problem-solve effectively.
“It’s going to have them [teachers] identify what the child is feeling and set the limit,” says Paulette. “They’re going to engage with the student through the inquiry. Then they’re going to offer alternatives along with the child. This is a child-teacher collaboration.”
Paulette appreciated the hands-on training. “It related to what they’re seeing in their classrooms when it comes to challenging behaviors, such as hitting, biting or having a little separation anxiety from mom,” says Paulette.
Paulette hopes to include information on the training in their own newsletter so that parents can also implement these strategies with their children at home.
The radio station switched the annual fundraiser from winter to spring to emphasize that community needs are year round
“We’re learning through events that it’s not just a wintertime need,” says Mark. “It’s a year-long need in the community to serve the people and organizations like this really making a difference, be it one meal a day, be it two, be it everyday or just a few weeks, every little bit is helping people . . . That’s why we do it.”
Before the event, Mark visited the Child Care Center and Emmanuel Dining Room West to interview Program Directors Paulette Annane and ReeNee LaFate and clients of their programs.
“I enjoy meeting the people who are actually benefitting from this and hearing the difference it makes in their lives and learning that people who might have come here once upon a time — as someone who was served — they are now serving others,” says Mark.
Director of News and Programming Chris Carl was one of WDEL staff that helped run the event at Dunkin’. He explained that this is the first year that WDEL took the event outside its studio. Chris highlighted that community engagement is important to WDEL.
“We’re a part of the community,” says Chris. “We want to be a good neighbor. We want to be a good friend — it’s in our company’s DNA to give back whenever we can.”
“I enjoy hearing those stories — how we can help people either get back on their feet or if they need a meal, if they need a place to stay,” says Chris. “It makes us feel good to be able to help in that way.”
At the end of the twelve hour broadcast, WDEL raised over $1,235 for the ministry. We thank WDEL for their partnership and generosity!
The team held an open house to teach landlords about their services
The next step after finding stable and safe housing is to refer clients to the Job Placement Center to find employment. Rapid Rehousing can also assist with transportation expenses once a client finds stable employment.
“We constantly meet with them to make sure they’re doing things to help them become sustainable,” says Rapid Rehousing Assistant Rich O’Donnell.
But to attain housing, Rapid Rehousing needs a connection with landlords and property owners.
“We don’t know a lot of them,” says Michael. “We’ve never seen their faces, but we’re constantly talking with them and going out to see their properties. We struggle getting landlords to accept our clients who are literally homeless and sometimes have as little income as zero.”
Rapid Rehousing Assistant Tracy Jenkins noted that the open house was created to make a face-to-face connection with the landlords. She did just that as she greeted and introduced herself to attendees.
Tracy says that she hopes Rapid Rehousing “. . . gets a little more appreciation for our program from the landlords and property owners and that they would feel a little more compassion — like how we feel for our clients.”
Michael began the open house presentation by explaining the Ministry of Caring’s role in Wilmington and how Rapid Rehousing functions. He made a point to explain the reasons why a client may be homeless: they may be running away from abuse, their primary caretaker may have abandoned them or they could have lost their job. Michael also noted that the ministry is responsible for the rent payments to the landlords and property owners, so even through an eviction process, they are guarenteed rent.
Tracy was hopeful about the outcome of the open house.
“I had one landlord who mentioned to me that she is willing,” says Tracy. “. . . she doesn’t want to see anybody out on the streets. She’s willing to give anybody a second chance, [to help] somebody to get up on their feet, to help them out – if a home is what they need to help them … to secure employment or better child care for their children.”
According to Michael, even the small number of attendees can be a success if they receive properties from each of them and they spread the word about Rapid Rehousing. However, they will not be able to measure the success of the open house for several more months. It is Rapid Rehousing’s first step in the right direction as a team.
“This is a joint effort,” says Michael. “This wasn’t just my idea, John [Bates] gets credit for suggesting it. Tracy and Richard spent an enormous time with me building the PowerPoint presentation and getting addresses and phone numbers for landlords.”
Congratulations to the Rapid Rehousing team for collaborating on this event to assist our clients with the ultimate goal: gaining independence.
Woodside staff partners with the ministry to fundraise, donate eggs and ice cream
“We are happy to be able to contribute and donate to the ministry to help support people in our community that need assistance,” says Janet. “We feel it’s important to give back and make our customers aware that there are people in our community that don’t have basic needs.”
Office manager Mary Sepp said they enjoy reaching out and helping the Ministry of Caring and other nonprofits including the nearby volunteer fire company, Food Bank of Delaware, animal charities, Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition and American Lung Association.
“We feel it’s important to partner with and give back to our community,” says Mary. “We know that what we give, whether its money or food, that it’s going directly to those in need.” Beyond financial support, Woodside often donates ice cream and eggs, including hundreds of dozens to ministry feeding programs. “We’re setting an example for other small businesses in the area,” says Janet. “They can’t possibly give on a larger scale but to give what they can. We hope to lead as an example to our customers to give what they can.”
The ministry’s high energy staff members and grateful attitude are what Mary and Janet love about this partnership. Make sure to color your picture and bring it to Woodside Creamery before Easter each year!
The annual celebration helps residents to remember and learn
“Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly,” Service Needs Coordinator Linda Richardson quoted Langston Hughes, who was named the black Poet Laureate by the NAACP in 1960.
Linda says that her favorite part of the celebration was “ . . . seeing the smile on their faces. She began the annual black history month celebration about ten years ago because she wanted to ensure that the residents of Sacred Heart Village I and II continued black heritage.
“[Hopes they take away]….a little more knowledge and little more something about black history they may not have known and found out,” says Linda. She recalls how one trivia question asked what product was the main force behind slavery in America. Though many thought the answer was cotton, the answer was tobacco.
In addition to trivia questions, Chaplain Corner Ministries and a few Ministry of Caring (ministry) employees led residents through traditional gospel song. Annetta Logan from Chaplain Corner Ministries played the piano with a bright smile.
“There’s something about old gospel music that blesses my soul to see everyone enjoy,” says Annetta.
Annetta added that she loved playing at the celebration to keep up the old gospel, but also noted that “…it’s not about the beat, it’s about the message that you take.”
Chaplain D’Rayfield Shipman, who founded Chaplain Corner Ministries, introduced every song and directed the choir. Like Linda, he hopes that the residents take home more knowledge and love for music.
“It’s important so that we can keep the heritage alive and let people know where we come from,” says Chaplain D’Rayfield. “In order to know where you’re going, you got to know your history.” Check out our Instagram and Facebook page to learn more about black history icons!
Read on to see the many ways you can fill a need at the ministry!
Fred began volunteering through Immaculate Heart of Mary and 20 years later now volunteers as an individual. Fred mentioned EDR to Jenn, who now volunteers with him.
Fred says that he keeps coming back to EDR for two great reasons.
“It’s not only that you see the need but you feel good about it,” says Fred. “It makes you feel great. We make friends with the staff and with each other.”
After volunteering for two decades, Fred says he can see the positive impact EDR makes in Delaware.
“When I look at the people who come in and how happy they are to have a hot meal, I know that makes a difference in their life,” says Fred.
Jenn enjoys filling a need in the community.
“I feel like I’m doing something that matters,” says Jenn. “That’s my favorite part. I don’t wake up in the morning and think ‘Oh, I have to go there today,’ I wake up excited to go there.”
But not all volunteers at EDR serve food.
Paul Sheers began volunteering at Emmanuel Dining Room West and South when Emmanuel Dining Room Program Director ReeNee LaFate asked if he could paint. He said he’d give it a try and has continued with painting and miscellaneous tasks the dining room needs to stay functional and maintain a welcoming appearance. Paul hopes to continue to make a contribution to EDR.
“It’s a time in my life that I feel like I’m very fortunate and I’d like to make a difference” says Paul. “It’s been a pleasure for me.”
Paul enjoys volunteering because he can give back his skills.
“What I’ve found, particularly later in life, the more you give the more you get in return,” says Paul. “It’s almost selfish, really, because you get so much back from it.”
The project will create a village of 53 apartments for low- and mid-income seniors
“It’s magnificent,” says Brother Ronald, smiling as the tour wound through former offices and classrooms transforming into homes for low-income seniors.
The project is creating 53 one- and two-bedroom apartments at the former Cathedral Church of St. John at Concord Avenue and North Market Street, thus saving the historic landmark neighbors once feared might be razed for retail development. The $22.5 million project, the largest in ministry history, is scheduled for completion in April.
The Episcopal Diocese of Delaware listed the closed church for sale in 2012. In 2015, the ministry and diocese announced the village plan and church trustees’ support by cutting the price nearly $1 million to about $650,000. After studies of need and possible funding, the ministry acquired the site July 26, 2017. The site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is being developed under the ministry-sponsored, separately incorporated Sacred Heart Housing Inc., with grants, sale of low-income housing tax credits, historic tax credit equity funds, and loans and allocations from the city, county and state governments.
“We see this as a great use for this facility and a way to continue serving the needs of the community,” the Right Rev. Wayne P. Wright, then bishop of the Episcopal Diocese, said in 2015. “We’re very happy about it.”
And those touring the bustling construction were equally happy. In room after room, hall after hall, they saw historic woodwork, windows and stonework being preserved as new walls, ductwork and doors shaped apartments.
“This is just beautiful,” says Development Director Priscilla Rakestraw in one room with a massive stone fireplace being saved but sealed for safety. “Whoever gets this apartment will be very, very lucky.”
Many apartments will be in a new building, where the church once planned to add another of its own. Architect Kevin Wilson of Architectural Alliance designed the new structure to complement the mid-1800s’ church. Alexis I. du Pont led the construction of the original church – using local Brandywine granite called blue rock – but after his death from an 1857 explosion at his family’s powder mill, his widow, Joanna, spearheaded its completion the next year.
Brother Ronald, who plans to honor both du Ponts at VSJ, was awed by how closely the new building’s exterior stonework echoes the church’s appearance.
“Oh, it’s beautiful,” he says. “This is beyond my wildest dream.”
As part of creating a true village at the site, he earmarked the church sanctuary as resident community space.
“I’m so glad they’re keeping the choir loft,” says Debbe Philips, ministry chief of staff. “It’s beautiful.”
As the tour progressed, the word “beautiful” was heard often. So were “amazing,” “incredible” and “wonderful.” And St. Mary’s Chapel, added off the sanctuary in 1919, will be kept as a haven where all may worship as they choose.
“I have to say,” says Priscilla admiring the tiny chapel, “I think this is my favorite part of all.”
The Jettset Mobile Studio visited a family living in Hope House III
Shanell from Jettset Mobile Studio drove her traveling salon van to Hope House III to give Christie and her two daughters, Christina and Carolyn, hair cuts worthy of any princess, queen or rock star. Shanell began her traveling salon to serve the tri-state area, particularly those who have mobility issues, time constraints or privacy concerns.
Christie and her daughters originally met Shanell through the church they attend, Tree of Life Ministries. Shanell had contacted the ministry about providing salon services, and Program Manager at Hope House II & III Kim Boulden had the perfect family in mind. Shanell then asked if Christie and her daughters would like their hair done. Christie, said she loved seeing her daughters get their hair done and that it helped her, too.
“I’m grateful for the ministry and their help at the holidays,” says Christie.
Although a hair cut may seem like an insignificant part of life, Kim found this to be important because many individuals experiencing homelessness have never had that experience.
“They really don’t get the opportunity to do things that make them feel good about themselves because they are so focused on trying to survive,” says Kim.
She added that an experience as simple as a hair cut can help clients in more ways than we might think.
“We so often focus on meeting what the clients need,” says Kim. “Every once in a while, it is good to get down to that human element and give them something that they might not necessarily need, but might give them a boost in how they are feeling. If you wake up and feel good about how you look, you feel better about going out on job interviews, going out in public, talking to other people – it is something we take for granted because we all tend to have access to those things and we forget that they do not.”
When the ladies stepped into Shanell’s van, they were instantly treated as celebrities receiving a luxurious hair wash and style. Kim’s favorite part was seeing the joy and gratitude the family displayed — especially Carolyn, who was excited to look like JoJo Siwa, an American singer, dancer and actress.
“There was definitely an increase in the self-esteem of those two girls after getting their hair done,” says Kim. “Instead of walking around with their heads down, and not exuding confidence or good self-esteem, they wanted to show everyone what they had done to their hair.”
We are grateful for Shanell and the time she spent helping a family.
Read Aloud Delaware volunteers help kids get a head start on literacy
“I didn’t drive or take a bus here, I flew on the back of this goose!” says Mother Goose.
She held up a soft toy goose to show the children. Mother Goose describes how windy the day was and that she and her goose friend need time to warm up inside. Each child aged 3 or 4 had the opportunity to reach into one of Mother Goose’s pockets for a mystery object.
Each one related to a nursery rhyme: a mouse for “Hickory Dickory Dock,” a spider for “The Itsy Bitsy Spider,” and a monkey for “Five Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed.” According to Early Childhood Administrator Janet Chandler, Guardian Angel Child Care has a partnership with Read Aloud Delaware in which volunteers come to read to the kids. Read Aloud Delaware is a nonprofit organization focused on early childhood literacy by reading aloud. According to their website, children that receive one-on-one reading with Read Aloud volunteers are more likely to be employed as adults, less likely to drop out of school and less likely to depend on public assistance.
Read Aloud offers story time with Mother Goose once a year to GACC. This time is only offered to children aged 3 or 4 since they have longer attention spans than younger children. Mother Goose reads in January every year since nursery rhymes are the theme for that month.
“The kids are learning some of these old nursery rhymes that are a part of history,” says Janet. “You can tell some of them have never heard of them before, so it’s reinforcing for us the historical part.”
Janet says her favorite part of story time with Mother Goose is watching the kids pick a mystery object out of her pocket because they figure out what it is, show their friends and learn participation. She recalls how one child purposely dropped the Humpty Dumpty toy when they sang about his fall. The nursery rhymes “require attention, audience participation — it’s sort of the whole idea of a presentation but within their classroom — taking turns, learning to watch each other,” says Janet.
Janet adds that story time with Mother Goose helps establish language, reading and communication skills as the kids learn nursery rhymes throughout the month. She laughs as she recalls that her 10-year-old grandson still has his Mother Goose anthology and he now reads the nursery rhymes to her. January is a month full of singing and learning at GACC!
Br. Ronald thanks staff and volunteers for another year of service
At this time we pause both to consider what we have done since the calendar last turned and look forward to what the new year will bring. As I reflect on 2018, I am humbled and overwhelmed with gratitude and appreciation. Your caring and dedication to helping the homeless and poor has made a difference in many lives.
At the Emmanuel Dining Room each day, more than 150 men, women and children are served hearty meals in a welcoming and supportive setting. The three sites now have served more than 7 million meals. I am awestruck not only by that number but also the growing need in our community, where homelessness – easing across the country – continues to rise in Delaware. Still, each of our programs and all of you who support them are helping the poor to improve their lives and live as independently as possible.
Mary Mother of Hope House I has served more than 7,000 women since its doors opened 41 years ago. Our emergency shelters and residences this year provided thousands of nights of beds in dignified and uplifting homes for others whose circumstances – from addiction to disability to living with HIV/AIDS – have left them with nowhere else to go.
Our child care centers serve hundreds of children with five-star rated programs, letting many of their parents work, find jobs or continue their education.
The Job Placement Center, helping unemployed people from the newly widowed to former inmates, succeeds in placing more than 50 percent of those who come through its doors, seeking the dignity of work.
After a months-long hiatus, I am happy to say, the Pierre Toussaint Dental Office has a new dentist and is providing care for the uninsured, relieving their daily pain and making incredible improvements with needed dental work they may have lived with for years, simply because they are poor.
Our Rapid Rehousing program has made outstanding strides this year, now placing more than 90 percent of referred applicants in homes of their own. This year, we also have continued to provide housing for hundreds of low-income seniors, mobile medical care, clothing, household goods for those moving to their own homes and services as simple as a hot shower for those who live on the streets.
Your generosity at Thanksgiving and Christmas were especially remarkable, including many partnerships with community groups from New Castle County Emergency Technicians to the Port of Wilmington. With hard work, these projects provided more than 1,000 food boxes, and gave out winter clothing. The Adopt-A-Family program alone provided gifts to 936 children who otherwise might have had no presents to open on Christmas Day. Staff members also were very generous in following our tradition of bringing gifts for shelter residents and supplies to our annual staff breakfast.
To say I am grateful is an understatement. I thank you for every individual employee’s effort, every supporter’s donation to the ministry, every kindness uplifts the poor.
And I look forward to 2019 as we continue to serve others – with open arms and hearts – throughout our programs, including the completion of the Village of St. John. That is the biggest project in the ministry’s history and will provide 53 beautiful apartments for low-income to moderate income seniors in the historic setting of the former Cathedral Church of St. John in Old Brandywine Village.
Together in the New Year, all of us will continue to help ensure that the poor are never treated poorly. May God continue to bless you all in 2019 for your generosity to the less fortunate.
Gratefully,
Brother Ronald
Jordan McCutcheon led her middle school in a sock donation drive.
Instead, she approached the principal again, this time in person, who then connected her with the Student Leader Association. The students at AGW had pizza and donut parties for the sock drive and finally ended up with over 2,500 pairs of socks to donate.
Program Director of Housing Annie Mountain could not contain her excitement as Jordan’s parents carried in bag after bag of socks for the residents.
“We love to give them things because they feel like they’re worth it,” says Annie.
Annie noted that the sock donations are especially important in the winter since most of the residents simply wear sandals in the summer.
“We need young people to lead the charge,” says Annie about Jordan’s determination to help others.
Thank you to Jordan and all her classmates at AGW Middle School for their hard work and generosity!
Volunteers from many Wilmington companies, schools, and clubs donated their time and efforts to ensuring everyone had a Thanksgiving meal.
WJBR 99.5 partnered with the Ministry of Caring for the annual Turkey-Thon event held at the Acme in Hockessin on November 19. For 13 hours, WJBR employees and volunteers were on air to raise funds and donations.
After the rush of donations, the New Castle County Emergency Medical Services Division gathered to organize the Thanksgiving baskets to give to Emmanuel Dining Room clients. The event created 680 dinners to feed over 3,000 people.
WJBR General Manager AJ Lurie and Promotions and Events Director Chris Leonard say they are proud the radio station has partnered with the ministry for Turkey-Thon for 20 years.
AJ and Chris say that since they are a community-based radio station, it’s important for them to take care of the community and do everything they can to help.
They were grateful for the opportunity to meet a few EDR clients before the event.
AJ and Chris say that they could tell the EDR clients were excited to receive the Thanksgiving baskets and were grateful for the support.
Program Director at Emmanuel Dining Room West ReeNee LaFate says she was mesmerized and humbled by the turnout. She finds that Turkey-Thon helps the Ministry of Caring carry out the mission of treating everyone with dignity and respect.
Receiving Turkey-Thon baskets “gives them pride,” says ReeNee. “Think about when your mother or father cooks. Think about the dignity it gives to prepare a meal for your family.”
ReeNee’s favorite part of Turkey-Thon is seeing volunteers giving.
“It’s an act of love,” says ReeNee. “Always remember it could be us – it could be anyone. Be conscious of those in need. We’re making a difference. It’s a spiritual act of God and love.”
ReeNee says that Turkey-Thon is a team effort that would not have been possible without everyone who volunteered.
“We have to thank so many companies who came,” says ReeNee. “We, Emmanuel Dining Room, the entire staff, thank all the Ministry of Caring staff that supported this effort. I am humbled by their graciousness, kindness and generosity.”
Residents of Sacred Heart Village had the opportunity to view The Merchant of Venice and participate in discussion.
The plot follows Bassanio as he tries to win the hand of Portia and Antonio’s deal with Shylock, who is hated because he is Jewish. Shylock lends Bassanio money, but if Antonio fails to repay Shylock for Bassanio, then Shylock may take a pound of Antonio’s flesh.
According to Producing Artistic Director David Stradley, the Ministry of Caring’s motto of “the poor should never be treated poorly” aligns with the mission of the community tour.
“The purpose is to take high quality professional theater throughout the state — reaching the full spectrum of our community by going to non-traditional settings,” says David. Some of these other settings include the Dover Public Library and the Delaware Center for Homeless Veterans.
Service Needs Coordinator at Sacred Heart Village I, Linda Richardson, believes the play was more than just entertainment.
“It’s important because it brings the community together,” says Linda. “This is something that they’ve probably never seen, a Shakespeare play.”
David stated that The Merchant of Venice was specifically chosen to spark a conversation about the treatment of people who are perceived as different by the community.
“Many of the locations we go to would be people who would unfortunately be looked on by others as marginalized people,” says David. “We thought they would have important insights to add to the conversation.”
David’s favorite part of the performance was the discussion afterwards.
“As a theater artist you hope your art connects and causes people to reflect,” says David. “ It was a wonderful conversation between Christian and Jewish populations – white and black populations.”
At this time, the Ministry of Caring asks everyone to pray for those affected by the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. We stand in solidarity with our Jewish friends.
Twice a year, residents at Mary Mother of Hope House I get the opportunity to learn cooking skills at a workshop.
“It teaches a life skill,” says Kim. “It increases knowledge on how they can help themselves and their families. Food has a bigger impact than everybody thinks it does. It provides community-based participation.”
Through a six-week workshop, Kim teaches the residents how to prepare a healthy meal. Participants receive a recipe and a cooking utensil, such as a meat thermometer. Program Director of Housing Annie Mountain finds the workshop invaluable to the women.
“They actually learn about nutritional value for the food that they purchase, what they consume, and how much they consume,” says Annie. “So many women who have been living on the streets or have become homeless have limited types and amounts of food that they can purchase on food stamps. They haven’t developed educational information on nutrition and cooking for themselves or for their families. They don’t know how to purchase food that will keep them motivated and energized.”
One of the most rewarding results of the workshop for Annie is seeing community come together over food.
“Meal time opens the doors to conversation and to community,” says Annie. “Sharing a meal together is almost sacred. It instills a sense of pride, laughter, and getting to know one another.”
HHI resident Marie DeFala particularly enjoyed the workshop because she previously attended a culinary arts school.
“It’s learning and refreshing my memory,” says Marie. She noted that she learned more about washing produce and chicken products.
Annie hopes that the women learn that they can make healthy choices in every aspect of their lives.
“That can mean budgeting, it could mean moderation, it could mean new experiences – trying new things – and considering the possibilities of instilling an interest in learning more and pursuing a career in food services,” says Annie.
Once the apple crisp is baked through, Marie and Kim dish a serving into bowls and offer the fall treat to the rest of the residents. The scent of fresh baked apples, cinnamon, and oats swirl through the air as the women enjoy each other’s company and ask Kim further questions on how to prepare healthy meals.
Kim is available at ksilva@udel.edu or 831-2058 for those who would like further information about SNAP education.
Staff members walked and raised money for House of Joseph II, our housing for men living with HIV/AIDS.
“I have to expand it beyond the House of Joseph II because this event is important to anyone who’s ever lived with AIDS,” says Sr. Christa. “It’s also important for family members and friends who have a person they know who is living with AIDS or who has died from AIDS. It’s important because we remember.”
One of the people Sr. Christa walked for was Kiki, who was at HOJII last year and has since passed away from AIDS.
“He came to me last year and he said ‘I’ve never done the AIDS Walk. But I really want to do it because I want to remember all of those other people who, my friends, who died from AIDS,’” says Sr. Christa. “And so he walked last year. He was sick. He’s not with us this year.”
Sr. Christa is grateful for others who walk for HOJII, such as CNA/DCP Annette Seeney-Hall. Annette walks to give back to the community she works with and so that people living with AIDS know about HOJII. She wants others who walk to realize that HIV/AIDS is nothing to be ashamed about.
“It’s a disease,” says Annette. “The person is not the disease, the disease is within the person.”
Annette also encourages people to break the stigma of AIDS by putting themselves in another person’s shoes.
“It’s not the golden rule, but the platinum rule: Treat others how you would want to be treated.”
Sr. Christa also hopes that the stigma of AIDS will be overcome. She recalls how people will still bleach down areas where individuals living with HIV/AIDS have been even though the disease is not spread through skin-to-skin contact.
“For me, it’s really important that you show love to the people you live with,” says Sr. Christa. “For me, doing the AIDS Walk is a way for showing love, solidarity, caring, and compassion.”
Sr. Christa pointed to Jane Hatchadoorian as her mentor in the AIDS community. Jane walked every year for her son, who died from AIDS, until she passed away last year.
“She was a fighter,” says Sr. Christa. “She was a go-getter. If it was the truth, she didn’t care what anybody thought of her or anybody else. She was going to speak the truth, live the truth, and promote the truth. If that meant putting an AIDS Walk sign in her driveway and people didn’t like that, that’s fine and good.”
Jane’s husband, Ed, walked this year in her memory. Sr. Christa is grateful for all who walked or donated this year.
“By doing so [donating or participating], they’re showing the greatest, which is love,” says Sr. Christa.
The Ministry of Caring Millenials hosted Crab Fest to fundraise money for the early learning and child care centers.
Ministry of Caring Millenials guild member Kate Wright was pleasantly surprised with the record-breaking over 300 registrations.
“We thought the turn out was fabulous especially with all the rain and the new location,” says Kate.
Proceeds to the event go to the Ministry of Caring’s three child care centers. As the youngest guild group, the Millenials want to help the youngest in the Ministry’s services in turn.
“We feel that it’s important to help the children of the poor so that hopefully we can help break the cycle and impact their lives in a positive way,” says Kate.
Leading up to crab fest, the Millenials worked to fundraise the cost of the event. They raised awareness and sponsorships, while also working with local businesses for auction events.
“My favorite part of the process is walking around, helping to clear off tables, and interacting with the guests,” says Kate. “Nothing brings more satisfaction then seeing the joy they have at our events.”
Guild chairman Matt Bowe said there was an outpouring of hard work leading up to Crab Fest.
“When you’re in the trenches in the team on the day of the event, it’s time to show the world what we created,” says Matt.
Thank you to the Ministry of Caring Millenials for presenting another successful Crab Fest!
Sister Carol Sukitz, a long-time member of the Ministry of Caring, passed away. We remember the legacy she gave.
Sr. Carol was determined to get on the show “Jeopardy!”
“She was bound and determined,” says Assistant Deputy Director Louisa Teoli. “She was definitely going to get on ‘Jeopardy!’ That was her favorite. And she always knew all the answers. She was a brilliant person.”
Sr. Carol received a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and education and a master’s degree in social work from Marywood College. She received her doctorate in social work from the University of Pittsburgh. Before arriving at the Ministry of Caring, Sr. Carol worked as a teacher and social worker throughout Pittsburgh.
Sr. Carol began her career at MOC in 1995 as the deputy director. She worked with different agencies and foundations to keep current programs together, advance those programs, and gain revenue for MOC.
Louisa says that Sr. Carol was always looking for ways to grow and advance.
“Sister Carol made us aware of the fact that there’s always something new out in the community and that we should be on top of it – be involved in it – so that we could better serve the people,” says Louisa. “That would be her legacy: We keep looking. It’s almost like in education. You’re looking for the next thing that is going to be more helpful than what you’re already doing to help.”
A perfect example of Sr. Carol’s drive for growth is that she was responsible for getting digital into MOC’s administration and then throughout all the buildings.
“We always had the top line equipment,” Louisa says. “I had a typewriter, and I have to say that was her biggest accomplishment: getting us computerized.”
Louisa says that Sr. Carol had a personal effect on her work ethic.
“The challenge with Sister was to be on top of everything at all times,” says Louisa. “If she gave you a project to do, you got the impression that she not only wanted the project done, but she wanted it done with high quality, just like Brother would have wanted it done. She wanted you to be at your best.”
Senior Grant Writer Anthea Piscarik says that Sr. Carol brought MOC to a new level of funding.
“She was so instrumental when the Ministry of Caring was starting to really grow,” says Anthea. “We were growing by leaps and bounds. She was a big part of that with her leadership skills and her involvement with what was the Homeless Planning Council. Because of her creativity and leadership, she brought in grants for our housing and shelters.”
While working with Sr. Carol, Anthea says she strived to be as organized as she. Sr. Carol was in charge of both operating and the programs themselves.
“She was demanding, but we understood why, because of the work we do,” says Anthea. “She appreciated the work that people did.”
Anthea feels lucky to have seen a different side of Sr. Carol when she went to a conference with her in California. She enjoyed how Sr. Carol loved nature and saw everything with a child-like enthusiasm.
“She enjoyed the smallest things, whether it was a good meal or a walk,” says Anthea. “She had such enthusiasm for the smallest things, which you don’t always see when someone’s heading up an organization.”
After her time at MOC, Sr. Carol continued her career as a social worker in Pennsylvania. Anthea will remember how much Sr. Carol cared about the people MOC serves.
“I know it was a driving force in everything that she did,” Anthea says. “She wanted to make this the best agency to serve the poor, any way that she could.”
We will always remember Sr. Carol and the mark she left on the Ministry of Caring. May she rest in peace.
On Monday, May 14, the Child Care Center received a 5-star designation from the Delaware Department of Education’s Stars Program, in what is a huge accomplishment for our MOC child care centers!
“It’s been a lot of hard work and dedication to get us here,” says Paulette Annane, our child care centers Program Director. With the help of Delaware Stars Specialists, our centers have worked on ensuring that they are eligible for grants by updating room layouts, developing better curriculum, and training our teachers in necessary skills. “We’ve been on a journey of quality improvement. We’ve had four assessments in a year!”
Certainly, the assessment process is an arduous one: Delaware Stars representatives show up at the center relatively unannounced, and select two classrooms to observe for a day. The assessors watch everything from how teachers speak to children, to how closely they follow the daily routine, to whether the toys and the facilities are in proper order. Paulette admits that being watched so closely can be very nerve-wracking for the teachers!
After the observation is over, the teachers are interviewed. Questions can be about the materials they use, whether they follow the weather in their outside play time, and a number of other topics. The interview portion is intended to assess how well teachers know the policies, and whether those policies are being followed.
Now that all three of our centers have reached five stars, Paulette’s hope is that we will be able to maintain this quality. For her, the key will be “keeping everything age-appropriate, building relationships with our families, and for our teachers to continue their education journeys… Teacher education is the key to keeping up with our ratings.” Congratulations to everyone at our child care centers who have worked so hard to make this possible!
This Mother’s Day, donors wanted to make sure the women in our Hope Houses were not forgotten.
After all the care they give towards their children, these women deserve to pamper themselves, and this donation was a great way to remind them of that. “The mothers tend to be so focused on doing what is best for the children that they fail to think of themselves or engage in any self-care,” says Hope House II & III Program Director Kim Boulden. These gifts will allow the women to take time for themselves as well, which is especially important in the stressful life circumstances in which they find themselves. We thank everyone involved in treating our residents to such a wonderful surprise!
Settled right in Wilmington’s East Side, Mother Teresa House is an independent housing facility for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Opened in 2011, MTH facilities are relatively new and beautifully furnished. Residents enjoy a common living area with large windows and high ceilings, and a patio area where people can sit outside in the fresh air. “[Living in this space] gives people a sense of pride. I want them to not just take pride in where they live, but to be able to move on, into their own place. This is a wonderful opportunity for those who aren’t ready for that step.”
One resident, Anthony, who has lived at MTH for about a year and a half, has enjoyed his time there. “This place is good for what it does,” he reflects. “It’s good if you’re trying to save money. There’s privacy here. It’s safe.” Anthony enjoys the neighborhood as well. “I don’t worry about running into drugs or anything outside,” he says.
Renee echoed Anthony’s sentiments about the neighborhood. According to her, this used to be a very economically depressed area, and now it’s being built up. Directly behind MTH, a row of townhouses is under construction. Community and volunteer groups can often be seen helping clean or beautify the area.
Renee loves what she does at MTH. Although Renee’s time is split between three programs, she wants to be an active presence onsite whenever she can: “I build trust with the clients. I’m firm but fair… I represent the Ministry of Caring, so the poor should not be treated poorly.” Renee has many hats at MTH, as the Enforcer, Mother, even Cleaning Lady, and wants to show her residents that she respects them and cares about them. “I make the commitment to be invested,” she admits as the key to successfully building relationships.
When asked what people should know about MTH, Renee responds: “When this program came along, it gave hope and provided housing that some people never thought they’d see, based on the conditions of how they were living before. This program is so needed, and more like this is needed.” We thank the staff at MTH for the work they do in the community and look forward to many more years of serving the Wilmington community!
The DOL’s mobile outreach bus brings their services to the community.
The purpose of the Outreach Program is to provide services to those who would not normally think of coming to the Department of Labor’s main office for assistance. “A lot of people hear Department of Labor and think, ‘unemployment,’” says Bradley, “But we also handle training, disability, and vocational rehabilitation.” In Bradley’s experience, “People don’t take advantage of a lot of our services. [For instance], they don’t know they can register and take the GED for free through us.”
This mobile unit is a great resource for everyone in the community! Stay tuned for updates on when the bus will come to the Ministry next.
In honor of AmeriCorps Week March 11-17, our AmeriCorps members supported Kuumba Academy’s “Girls on the Run” after school program.
The University of Delaware brings cooking and nutrition classes to our shelters and is changing the way our residents approach healthy eating.
The women at Hope House I are looking to change the cycle of unhealthy eating behaviors. Recently they wrapped up a six-week class on cooking and nutrition. The course, which happens twice a year, is facilitated by Kim Silva from the University of Delaware’s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). Topics covered include nutrition, reading food labels, understanding the food pyramid, planning healthy meals, choosing fresh produce, and cutting back on toxic foods.
“This is one of our most-loved workshops every year,” says Annie Mountain, Program Director of Hope House I. Participants watch a cooking demonstration and have a chance to make yummy treats like yogurt parfaits that they can enjoy at the end of each session.
Annie has already noticed a difference in the way residents approach food: “I often hear the women chatting in the kitchen when they are doing meal prep about what is on a label or what would be a good side dish because they want a balanced meal.” The class is an exciting opportunity for the women in our shelters!
It has been one year since our child care facilities adopted the Devereux Center’s Early Childhood Resiliency Project into their everyday curriculum.
Paulette Annane, Program Director of our three child care facilities, is hopeful about the progress that we have seen so far. “A lot of training has gone into this. The teachers had a two-day training and the administrators had even more. I got to go to Villanova for a ‘Flip It’ training about failings, limitations, challenging children, and strategies for those.” According to Paulette, there have been measurable improvements across the board in each of the three resiliency factors, and fewer observable negative behaviors.
In 2018, Paulette wants to build on the work we have started. “We want to look for kids who are under the radar and we want to support the parents. Because we don’t just cater to the kids; we cater to families. When a parent has a need, we refer them to Hope House II or III, whatever they need. Our centers are safe havens – we want to project love and caring no matter what. We want parents to know that they’re dropping off their children at a second home.”
After years of homelessness, one EDR guest is gaining independence– and has this to say.
However, Byrd was still struggling to get by. Feeling desperate, he remembers telling God, “If you’ll get me health insurance and get me back on my feet, I’ll do the rest of the work. I’ll go to Emmanuel Dining Room every day. I’ll live for you.” And according to Byrd, that’s exactly what God did.
On February 5, Byrd was able to save up and move into his own efficiency apartment where he can cook his own food, sleep under his own roof, and enjoy freedoms that he has long awaited. “I give it all to the man upstairs,” Byrd says. “EDR helps people in hard times and I’m no better or worse. God has smiled on me, so now I help others.”
Anthony says he tries every day to respect people and make them smile. The one piece of advice he would offer to anyone going through a hard time is that “It ain’t over. Give it to God. He’ll sort it out; He’ll come through.”
MOC’s full-time AmeriCorps Volunteers spent a day dedicated to service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., along with thousands across the country.
MOC volunteers served at the Parkway Academy-North Community Clean-up, cleaning the streets of Wilmington in honor of Dr. King, and making our neighborhoods a more beautiful and safe place to live. The event finished at the Youth Empowerment Center with a parade and performances from local youth dance teams. MOC volunteers were joined by AmeriCorps groups from around Wilmington.
AmeriCorps volunteers also served at the Ministry’s Samaritan Outreach, helping pack hygiene kits and sort through donated clothing for distribution to those in need in our community.
The new Village of St. John in Old Brandywine Village will offer affordable housing to low- and moderate-income seniors.
Brother Ronald first considered the building and began obtaining funding in 2012, calling it a “perfect place for housing.” And during the groundbreaking ceremony, Brother Ronald was described as the lightning bolt that ignites MOC’s fire: the fire that spurs the Ministry’s creativity, resourcefulness, persistence, and passion for serving the poor. As an MOC-sponsored program, the Village of St. John will continue to be a symbol of hope for Wilmington and will touch the lives of many to come.
As construction begins, please pray that no obstacles stand in our way and that it will not be long before we stand at 2020 North Tatnall Street at the opening ceremony of the Village of St. John.
“I’ve never gotten a wrapped gift before,” said one Hope House resident as she was handed a present of robes, slippers, and toiletries this Christmas season.
Our Wilmington community came together this year to give back the the Ministry of Caring on Thanksgiving Day.
BlackRock employees served a meal at Emmanuel Dining Room South to spread holiday cheer to the hungry!
The first year results are in: the children in our programs are improving their resiliency, thanks to Highmark Delaware and the Devereux Center for Resilient Children.
Rachel Wagner, MSW, National Trainer and Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist provided training for our staff and had this to say about them: “The core leadership team amazed me with their insights and dedication. Paulette Annane, Program Manager, led the team to develop a comprehensive year-long implementation plan… [which] was thorough, thoughtful, and impressive. What impressed me further was their commitment to following the plan. In my regular check-ins over the course of the year, Paulette and the team stayed on track with their plan. And their commitment showed when the end of the year results came in.” She praised our staff as hardworking, dedicated, enthusiastic, and it is clear that these qualities have had great returns for our children’s resiliency.
We’re grateful to Highmark and the DCRC, proud of our staff, and looking forward to year two!
A precious historical artifact was stolen from the Cathedral Church of St. John on or about October 4, 2017. The Ministry is offering a reward for its intact return.
The Ministry of Caring purchased the Cathedral of St John in 2016 and completed development of the site into an affordable housing complex for seniors in 2019. The bronze lectern has not been found, and the Ministry still is offering $1,000 for information leading to its intact return. Anyone with information should call the Ministry’s main office at (302) 652-5523.
This year the Ministry has been implementing a new project to improve resiliency of children at three child care facilities with some exciting early results.
This is an issue that the Ministry’s child care staff are familiar with. Approximately 90% of children at MOC sites come from low-income families. In response, the Ministry received grant funding to implement the Resiliency Project, which would in part provide professional development to staff. Program directors and lead teachers received training on the skills necessary to support classroom teachers and assistants and develop the social and emotional health of children in their direct care.
On Friday, August 18, Highmark CEO Tim Constantine and Community Relations Officer Matt Stehl visited the Child Care Center to assess the early results of the Resiliency Project. They made some exciting observations: 73.7% of children displayed a positive change in their resiliency levels throughout the 2016-2017 school year! At the beginning of this endeavor, only 15.8% of children had strong resiliency, but by the end of the year, that number increased to 40.8%. This is an exciting result for the Ministry’s child care centers. As a result of this project, the needy children who attend these programs have significant social and emotional growth. Many thanks again to Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield for their collaboration in helping our children grow and succeed!
Local farmer Stewart Ramsey dedicates an entire field of sweet corn to the Ministry of Caring’s Emmanuel Dining Room every harvest.
Did you know that there is a farm in your backyard? Ramsey’s Farm, just a short drive from downtown Wilmington, is in the business of giving back to the community. In 2013, owner Stewart Ramsey called the Ministry of Caring to ask whether the Ministry could use 1,000 ears of sweet corn. Since then, Stewart has faithfully planted and donated almost an entire field of his corn to Emmanuel Dining Room. “I don’t have enough money to make a difference,” he admits, “But I do what I can with my resources. It feels good to give back.”
Stewart is the fifth generation of Ramseys to run the farm, with his son Carl planning to take over one day. With changes to the competitive farming industry, Ramsey’s Farm has evolved from a predominantly crop-growing farm to what he calls an Entertainment Farm. They offer corn mazes, bonfires, a beautiful site for birthday parties, and more. Stewart prides himself on having good relationships with his customers, and clearly loves being involved in the community. Many thanks to Farmer Ramsey for his generous contribution to the Wilmington community!
Guardian Angel Child Care has received a five-star rating through Delaware Stars for Early Success.
This August, representatives from Delaware Stars for Early Success observed and assessed Guardian Angel Child Care and awarded the center five stars. Delaware Stars is a Quality Rating and Improvement System administered by the Delaware Department of Education, whose mission is to offer high-quality care for the children of low-income families. A prestigious fifth star is the highest rating a child care facility can earn. GACC follows on the heels of Il Bambino, which achieved the same exemplary rating a few months ago!
Delaware Stars observed six of GACC’s teachers in action—more than fifteen hours of observation and interviews over the course of that week. Representatives inspected every classroom, every toy, making the rating a rigorous process. Throughout that week, GACC staff excelled. When ranked on a scale from one to seven, GACC teachers averaged 6.58—an almost perfect score! GACC earned some of the highest recorded scores of all time, and when you spend time with the teachers there, it’s clear the staff love what they do.
The Ministry’s Curriculum Coordinator Patti Lynch emphasized that cohesion among the staff and volunteers was a huge part of earning this rating. “Everyone at GACC got us this star. Teamwork was huge. Everybody pitches in, and the staff is always eager to learn and grow.”
So what’s next for Guardian Angel? Patti’s job is to ensure that each of the Ministry’s three child care facilities continuously improve their overall quality. “It’s my job to ask myself, what can we do better?” Since higher star ratings mean more funding from the state, stars are vital to helping GACC give kids the best care possible. “Now we’re going to shoot for the stars and keep getting better, at all three of our child care sites.”
Tamia Patrick, with son Bryson Patrick, 5, is grateful for the small classes, safe environment and outstanding teachers at the Child Care Center.
Ask five-year-old Bryson Patrick about the Child Care Center of the Ministry of Caring and he will delight you with everything you ever wanted to know about flowers, popular songs and his favorite subject of all, hermit crabs. Ask his mom Tamia Patrick and the topic shifts to small classes, a safe environment and outstanding teachers. But when you mention Bryson’s June 11, 2010, graduation day, mother and son speak with one voice. Departing from the only child care programs that Bryson knew—and came to love—was a bittersweet experience for both.
“I wanted for Bryson the teacher-child intimacy that small classes offer,” remarks Tamia, a 31-year-old single mother of two. “I found it first in Il Bambino, the Ministry of Caring center for infants and toddlers, and later the Child Care Center, where Bryson had only 12 to 13 students in his class.” Describing her son as a sometimes “rambunctious” boy and a “very determined, go-getter,” Tamia watched him thrive under the patient care of his teachers, especially Vivian Johnson and teacher’s assistant Yolanda Miller. “They helped him learn to listen, stay on top of his behavior and not to interrupt adults as he used to.” “Bryson is a very intelligent child,” adds Vivian. “It would not surprise me if his love of animals and flowers leads him to a science career some day.”
Tamia, an administrative assistant, receptionist and file clerk in a Wilmington law firm, remarks that the Child Care Center and its affordable sliding-scale fees helped make it possible for her to work outside the home. “With Bryson in a safe place all day, I was free from worry about him,” notes Tamia. “And I always felt confident that his teachers would promptly address with me any concerns they had about Bryson.” She proudly adds that in September 2010, Bryson entered kindergarten at the Thomas Edison Charter School, where he has an older brother too.
At peace that her sons are on the right educational track, Tamia has begun a new venture of her own. She is pursuing a certificate in art and design at night school while her mother cares for the boys. “I hope to work in an art museum someday and learn how to run it,” she says.
Tamia’s journey toward self-sufficiency continues. Next, she plans to move from her mother’s home and live with the boys in her own apartment. Bryson’s former teacher’s assistant, Yolanda Miller, also a former case manager, is providing the moral support and practical assistance to help Tamia reach that goal. “Yolanda has also shown me how to budget my money. I’m now better with my finances and I’m finally saving.”
“It’s not easy to become independent. I’m still struggling,” she smiles. “But, like my sons, I’m on my way!”
Jamar Freeland, a formerly homeless man, now provides security for Sacred Heart Village through the House of Joseph Training Program.
For over ten years, House of Joseph Transitional Residence has been assisting homeless men on the path to self-sufficiency. A unique feature of this facility is its job training program funded through the Supportive Housing Program of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Residents engaged in the training program earn stipends and receive on-the-job training while working at Ministry sites. The training program filled a previously unforeseen need when the Ministry of Caring opened Sacred Heart Village in 2001.
Now an entirely separate corporation, Sacred Heart Village was initially sponsored by the Ministry of Caring. A 77-unit housing complex serving low-income senior citizens, Sacred Heart Village has never been a typical apartment building. From its inception, the project has been envisioned as a community of neighbors who know and care about one another. An integral part of this vision is round-the-clock security provided by onsite “doormen.” Through outside-the-box thinking, it was decided to employ homeless men from the House of Joseph Training Program to provide security for the seniors living at Sacred Heart Village. From this unlikely idea was born an unbeatable match, a partnership that has succeeded beyond anyone’s expectations.
Strong bonds have formed between the residents and their caring protectors. Perhaps each meets the other’s need for friendship or family. Residents often stop at the front desk to offer the doormen a home-cooked meal or some friendly advice gathered from years of experience. For their part, the doormen go beyond what would be expected of typical security guards. The gentlemen working at Sacred Heart Village have become surrogate family members, knowing when to make a joke and when to offer comfort. Following their experience at Sacred Heart Village, many have gone on to full-time careers in security.
By adding an intensive work-readiness component to its transitional housing program, the Ministry of Caring helps prepare homeless men to become self-reliant members of the community. By providing security 24 hours a day, Sacred Heart Village raises the bar for quality in affordable senior housing. By uniting the two programs, the organizations leverage financial resources that improve services in two disparate programs. The true benefit—the value that goes beyond cost effectiveness or best practices—is the love, support and friendship that has transformed two sometimes-overlooked segments of the population.
Smiling is contagious at Emmanuel Dining Room! Volunteers Mary McKernan and Barbara Kreuer and guest Gregory Lay prove it.
Take for example the Emmanuel Dining Room (EDR) on Jackson Street. When you approach the kitchen window, you just might hear frequent bursts of giggling and laughter. If it’s a Friday morning, the culprits are very possibly Barbara Kreuer and Mary McKernan. The two serve milk and water every other Friday morning to the dining guests at a table by the kitchen, greeting them with a warm and sprightly “Good Morning!” Mary is the one with the infectious laughter. “I enjoy (this work),” she says, “It makes me feel good, helping all of these people.” No slacker in jocularity herself, Barbara concurs, “We do have fun!”
Over 40 years ago, Mary and Barbara met through the Wilmington Newcomers Club. Even then, they shared a strong interest in community involvement and volunteerism. Years passed, both women raised families, and each pursued her own philanthropic interests.
Around 2001, the women reconnected through a volunteer group at their parish, the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Wilmington. It was “God’s timing,” according to Barbara, that the two reconnected and began volunteering together at EDR. Their longtime friendship has been “built on the strength of common interests in the Ministry of Caring,” says Barbara.
Barbara has over 20 years of volunteer and leadership experience with the Ministry of Caring. In 1990, she launched with Sr. Ann Marguerite Gildea, OSF, the Guild, the highly successful volunteer fundraising arm of the Ministry of Caring whose membership numbers 300 today. She was the Guild’s first president and planned the first Eleganza Fashion Show, a still-popular Guild event that raises funds for the Ministry. Moreover, Barbara has chaired the EDR Auction and was President of the Board of Directors of the Ministry of Caring for a term that ended November 2010.
Mary began her volunteer work at EDR about 10 years ago with her late husband. She has also spent much time with the Ministry, attending EDR International Night dinners at Francis X. Norton Center. And she also has toured many other Ministry programs. Mary knits beautiful sweaters to be auctioned at the EDR spring auction each year.
According to Sister Kathleen O’Donnell, OSF, EDR site manager, the two women are a “cheerful pair” who “have great chemistry.” Both women enjoy the “camaraderie of the people who work here, like Tony Attaway.” Tony, assistant site manager of EDR, keeps the dining room orderly while he mingles with the guests, volunteers, and employees, entertaining them with his stories and wit.
A guest at EDR once told Barbara “When I came in, I was down. I feel so much better, just listening to your laughter.” Barbara exclaimed to the gentleman, “Now YOU have made MY day!” Barbara has observed that some people who have more worldly goods are less grateful for the gifts that life has given them. She is amazed, she says, by how most EDR guests respond positively when greeted, despite their circumstances.
As her parting comment, Barbara quoted the homily that she heard from Father Bob at Mass that morning , “Why do we do things for other people – what are our motives?” He responded to his own question, “Whatever we do for others, we get back so much more.”
“Amen!” say Barbara and Mary in unison!
A series about super special people in the Ministry of Caring community who do extraordinary things to help the poor.
Thanks!
The Development Staff of the Ministry of Caring
You can set your clock by his daily 8:00 AM appearances outside Emmanuel Dining Room, where he meets and greets his beloved clients lined up for their first meal of the day. You also might spot him walking miles around Wilmington neighborhoods in solidarity with the poor, who have no means of transportation but their feet. If you see him diverge occasionally from his “no automobile” lifestyle, it is only to accept food donations for the poor from local stores and businesses. “He” is Brother Rudolph Pieretti—Capuchin Franciscan friar, Delawarean since 1972, master mechanic and former Zambian missionary. He was director of Emmanuel Dining Room, where the poor consume over 200,000 nutritious meals each year in comfort and dignity.
Soon after graduating from Wilmington’s Salesianum High School, Brother Rudolph entered the Capuchin Order of Friars. Like their founder St. Francis of Assisi, the friars have labored among the world’s poorest of the poor for over eight centuries. “Brothers work a lot with their hands and they spend much time in prayer” remarks Brother Rudolph. “I like to do both and found that this life suits me well.” Brother’s dexterity with his hands is evident in his talent for plumbing, building, carpentry and vehicle maintenance, skills that his father, Rudolph, a civil engineer, taught him as a boy. Mr. Pieretti and Brother Rudolph’s mother, Joan, still live in Wilmington, Delaware, where they raised a family of four sons and one daughter, among whom Brother Rudolph is the oldest.
In November 2009, Brother Rudolph arrived at the Ministry of Caring after 18 years of missionary work in Zambia, a landlocked country in Southern Africa formerly called Northern Rhodesia. Here, he worked among the local people caring for the sick in hospitals, visiting prisons, ministering to patients with AIDS and helping in any way that he could. He also repaired the mission vehicles and taught plumbing and carpentry to the native people. Brother describes Zambia as “a beautiful country with many natural resources—just as God created the earth.” The Zambians are noted for their peacefulness, hospitality, cheerfulness and kindness, he adds.
The poor in America and in Zambia are “alike and different,” according to Brother Rudolph. “People are people. When we find ourselves in great difficulties, we all look for assistance wherever we hope to find it.” Poverty in America, Brother continues, is somewhat more complicated––layered with needs that often stem from drug abuse, alcoholism, the breakdown of society or family and other negative experiences. The people of Zambia, on the other hand, have much to offer in terms of how a person can be happy and content with the simpler things in life. Brother Rudolph departed from Zambia in 2009 only because “it was time to return” and to hand over the mission projects to the indigenous clergy.
Zambia’s loss of Rudolph Pieretti is the joy of the many people associated with Emmanuel Dining Room. “We all love him and love to talk with him,” says Tony Attaway, assistant site manager. “He makes you feel that you’re the most important person he knows whenever he speaks to you.” According to Dining Room West site manager Sr. Kathleen O’Donnell, OSF, Brother Rudolph is “wonderfully, totally committed” to Emmanuel Dining Room and its people. “He knows people’s names at all three dining rooms and he often takes needy people he meets there to other Ministry of Caring sites for clothing, case management, job assistance and other services,” states Sister Kathleen. “He also has added lovely touches to the dining room such as flowers and vases on each table.” Dorine Layton, assistant manager of Emmanuel Dining Room, summarizes the thoughts of the hundreds who come in contact with Brother Rudolph everyday, “We love and respect him for his quiet grace,” she said. “He inspires us to do our very best work so that ‘the poor should never be treated poorly’ at the Ministry of Caring.”
Rob Bair had passed out for the third time that day, when someone finally called an ambulance. He awoke in a hospital, with IV bags hooked up to both arms. “I thought, ‘I’ve already been 24 hours sober, let’s see how long it will last,’” he said. “This April will be four years.”
An Air Force veteran who worked full-time at a paint store and part-time at a liquor store, Rob’s life fell apart when his disease overtook him in 2011.
He was fired from his job at the paint store, and then he lost his home when his income dried up. All of this caused him to drink even more. He was squatting in the home he’d been kicked out of and drinking heavily.
“Everyone has a season, my season came in 2011. I was really in bad shape,” he said. “I smelled. I didn’t bathe. I was a real mess. My eyes were bloodshot all the time.”
He’d begun using drugs, too, when he finally hit bottom. That’s when he passed out, woke up in Wilmington Hospital, and decided to extend his sobriety indefinitely.
He joined Alcoholics Anonymous, found a sponsor, and came to the Ministry of Caring looking for help. After meeting Br. Ronald, he was admitted into HOJI, a men’s shelter. At the time, the shelter’s permanent location on West Third Street was being renovated, so he stayed in the temporary shelter at Sacred Heart Residence.
“I met tons of nice people,” Rob said. “Jeremiah [Thaara, case manager] was really great. He was tough, but good, honest, really nice. But he didn’t pull any punches. They all were like that, which is good. You don’t want somebody to pamper you.”
Now 54, Rob is employed and sober, with dreams of opening his own auto detailing business. He started a recovery support group, even though, early on, there were meetings where no one else came. He credits his sobriety to God, and thanks the Ministry of Caring for helping guide him back to the right path.
“I’m going to be four years sober in April,” he said. “But I’ve got to get through today first.”
He was joined at the table by state legislators and residents of Sacred Heart Village. Before signing the bill, Gov. Markell praised the Ministry’s efforts to help the people of Delaware. “The work you do in providing a sense of dignity for so many people in this state is extraordinary,” he said to Br. Ronald.
Guild Founder Honored By City At the 12th annual Wilmington Awards ceremony held Oct. 1, longtime Ministry supporter and former board member and president Barbara Kreuer was honored for her faithful leadership in serving the homeless and poor in the greater Wilmington community over a span of more than 25 years.
Barbara received the award from the Honorable Dennis P. Williams, Mayor of Wilmington.
The twin sisters, 38, of Newark, say they’ve felt well cared for and respected since their first appointment in December of 2014.
Anne had lost most of her teeth, and the six remaining teeth were rotting. Angela, having not been to a dentist in 10 years, had broken teeth and 10 cavities. They both had been living with missing teeth and severe tooth pain for a long time.
Anne appreciates how personable the employees are, saying, “They know our names when we come in.”
PTDO was able to fill the twins’ cavities, remove broken and rotten teeth, and provide Anne with dentures. “I had a lot of tooth pain for months,” Angela said, “and as soon as I came in to [PTDO], it stopped hurting.”
“I feel significantly better about myself,” Anne said, “Going out was embarrassing… I would never leave the house unless I had to.”
The dental office provides free dental care to homeless men and women, and low-cost services to those with low income, like Anne and Angela.
Anne and Angela speak very highly of PTDO, calling the employees gentle, respectful, kind, and more wonderful things. Anne said, “I lucked out when finding this place.”
“I tell anybody that needs a dentist to come here,” Angela said.