Of all the people in our culture, they may be the least well-equipped to do so. Self- sufficiency, in many cases, requires direction, guidance and a helping hand to get started. A practical approach At the Society no work of charity is unknown. Food, clothing and shelter are the most basic of needs and the ones in which the Society specializes. By supplementing food, for instance, more funds are available for the rent.
Clothing is available from any of our three thrift stores.
Day work is available through our centers in Mountain View and East San Jose, and we are recruiting volunteers to help in our newest initiative, vocational mentoring, designed to help people overcome the many barriers to employment they may face. While housing is the most formidable barrier to employment it is only one of many. Job and life skills, child care, transportation, language skills, health issues, relationship crises, undiagnosed disabilities and many other challenges can be overwhelming. But they cannot and should not be expected to deal with the issues themselves. Catholics can make themselves more aware of the situation right in their own neighborhoods and support agencies through time, treasure and talent.