Catholic Social Services (CSS) of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia marks its longstanding commitment to service to the homeless and other special needs populations. The history of Catholic Social Services Housing and Homeless Services began in 1963 with the establishment of Saint John's Hospice, created from the outreach efforts of Saint John the Evangelist Parish to the less fortunate. The CSS mission continues to grow with the September 2003 opening of 18 units of transitional housing for women and children in the Kensington section of Philadelphia. There are now a total of eight sites operated by CSS Housing and Homeless Services.

To mark the 40th anniversary , CSS will hold a Prayer Service. Staff and volunteers as well as former and current residents of the eight sites will be present for the Prayer Service. Representatives from each site, some carrying candles and banners, will be part of the entrance procession,. Reverend Monsignor Timothy C. Senior, Secretary for Catholic Human Services will offer the Opening Prayer.

Sunday, October 12, 2003
2:30 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia


Catholic Social Services
Housing and Homeless Services

Saint John's Hospice provides shelter for 40 homeless men and day services to over 200 men daily

Mercy Hospice provides shelter and recovery housing for 50 women and children

Women of Hope (two sites) programs provide housing and services to 46 homeless women with serious
mental illnesses

Good Shepherd Program provides housing and programs for 12 medically fragile homeless men, some of
whom have HIV/AIDS

McAuley House provides housing and programs for six medically fragile homeless women

Saint Mary's Residence provides permanent housing for older women who need the security and support which this kind of residence offers

Visitation Homes provides 18 unites of transitional housing for women and children

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Contact
Donna Farrell
Broadcast and Media Specialist
215-587-3747