"To love God and neighbor is not something abstract, but profoundly concrete: it means seeing in every person the face of the Lord to be served, to serve him concretely."
- Pope Francis
address during Visit at the Homeless Shelter "Dono Di Maria," 5/21/13
Watch this video from to learn about the Federal Poverty Level -- a $7.25 hourly wage -- and the effects on our brothers and sisters throughout our country.
Note: Most U.S. states do not supplement the federal minimum wage.
In Redlands, we combat poverty in several ways. Scroll down to learn how we provide shelter for those in need.
Our Parish Community has been involved in supporting and operating Emergency Night and Cold Weather Shelters for the homeless for over a decade in Redlands. As society becomes overwhelmed with the increasing number of homeless people and often lacks government action to address these core issues, the Church must continue to increase her work with those marginalized in our community.
With the help of over 90 faithful and selfless volunteers, Holy Name of Jesus provides a safe, warm place to sleep; a nutritious dinner and breakfast; case work and support; prayers, love, and dignity to our guests that stay in our shelter from January through April. In the summer months, we support the Center for Spiritual Living in Redlands who provides the shelter.
Does this ministry work? By the end of April 2022, eight women had been helped out of homelessness. One woman’s life was actually saved, as she had critical medical issues that were identified at the shelter that led to those issues to be properly addressed. Another woman was recently placed in a home for single women; three others were approved for long-term housing.
Hear from two former guests whom we have helped leave homelessness behind:
We made it! Thanks to you all! It’s hard to express how meaningful what you guys have done for me is. I’ve given you a little glimpse of my life, but I don’t have many people I can say are there for me when I need them. You guys do it every day…for ALL OF US! IT AMAZES ME!! You just don’t help out every now and then or just put a check in the mail…but you’ve basically dedicated your life to helping others. This is amazing to me, and I want you to know how much I appreciate you. You’ve given your time, your encouragement, your protection and prayers. I’ve never seen people so devoted to living for others the way Jesus loves us.
I wish I could thank everyone personally but since I can’t please thank them for me. So many faces I know with names that escape my brain…but they’ll forever be in my heart! I will never forget this experience staying at The Holy Name of Jesus Church, and the changes within me it brought about. It renewed my faith in mankind…just as my faith was wavering. Thank you for being what God intended you to be: an extension of HIM.
Forever your friend, L.G.
Shelter Coordinator, Rick Ferguson, shares:
We must avoid the temptation to only see these individuals as lazy and crazy. These are brothers and sisters in need who have a story. While it may be true we cannot help everyone, there are those who need support and resources to turn around things in their life. It makes all the difference when you are willing to hear the stories and journey with these souls in need. Be willing to talk to a volunteer or meet one of our guests to discover God’s work in these powerful encounters. God will indeed reward you with blessings with you reach out to help another in need with the love and peace of Jesus. We are committed to continue our walk with these women by helping each one to meet current and future challenges.
You are invited to get involved. Fill out the interest form below or contact Rick.