Articles by Susan Bomalaski


Pope calls Catholic Charities to be ‘on the streets’

As many of you know, Catholic Social Services is a member of the larger Catholic Charities USA network, which just recently held its annual gathering in Charlotte, N.C. The meeting opened with a video greeting from Pope Francis. Although I was not able to attend, the text of his message emphasize that the mission of all Catholic Charities agencies are directed towards his vision for the church to be the “advocate of justice and defender of the poor in the face of intolerable social and economic inequalities.”

Catholic Social Services in the midst of many changes

Catholic Social Services just completed the reaccreditations process by the Council on Accreditation (COA) this summer. A team visited us in August and had many positive things to say. Their report emphasized three elements: Our excellent continuous quality improvement program; our engaged and knowledgeable board of trustees; and the strong sense of teamwork they observed with people respecting each other and focused on delivering outstanding services.

Providence keeps charitable outreaches afloat with generous donations

At Brother Francis Shelter (BFS), CSS serves over 3,500 homeless men and women each year, many who have been on the streets for decades and suffer from complex medical issues. The only medical care they receive is through the Providence ER or at the BFS Caring Clinic. This is a clinic run solely by volunteers. Several of the clinic days each month are staffed by the Providence Family Medicine Residency program. Providence also generously provides the medicines and supplies that keep this clinic going.

Br. Francis Shelter residents offered step up at Job Readiness Center

People who experience significant barriers to employment, such as lack of education or a criminal history, do not have that positive aspect to their lives. At Brother Francis Shelter (BFS) we work with many in this situation. As the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops reminds us, work is more than a way to make a living; it is a form of continuing participation in God’s creation.

A busy summer at Catholic Social Services in Anchorage

Summers are a busy time at Catholic Social services (CSS). Here’s some of what’s been happening.

We kicked off with a splash at Clare House. The Copper River Seafood Marketing Association donated first-of-the-season Copper River salmon to Clare House. Chef Reuben Gerber of the Crow’s Nest at the Hotel Captain Cook prepared a delicious salmon lunch for the residents. It was delightful to spend time with commercial fisherman Derek Blake and Chef Reuben — both men volunteered their time, talent and treasure to make the day memorable.

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