She lives and works in the women's and children's house. There is a sentiment presently circulating among social agencies and church organizations that hospitality is out of style. Cleverly advertised, innovative new counseling programs for abused and homeless women are in.
Shelter is out.
Easy-reach crisis hotlines are spouting everywhere. Simple offers of housing, food and clothing are draining fast. Boards of Directors go along with monies being used for counseling instead. Information and referral and networking replace shelters. As a somewhat scorned and marginalized outpost of the disappearing hospitality movement, this Catholic Worker needs to explain why its members are sticking with such an outdated and primitive social charism.