As you prepare for the Christmas season, perhaps you are contemplating where you will put your Christmas tree, which presents you will buy for loved ones, and what you will serve for dinner. Your celebrations will likely include family, friends, delicious food, gifts and lots of laughter.

Now, for a moment, imagine what Christmas must feel like for an individual or a family experiencing homelessness. A homeless individual may be wondering if they will need to sleep on the street, if there will be any food to provide their children, or if their families will be safe.

Daybreak Center homeless shelter has been at capacity for months. We are seeing more homeless children than ever before. On Christmas morning, we predict that more children will wake up in the shelter than have ever in the past. The Agency is facing significant deficits at Daybreak Center and Hope House that threaten the future of these two shelter programs. Please help us continue to serve those who are experiencing homelessness and others in need of our life saving programs.

At Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet, services for the homeless and others that live in poverty, are provided 365 days per year, including Christmas. In order to help end the cycle of poverty and provide the bridge to self-sufficiency the Agency provides emergency and homeless prevention services, counseling, early childhood services and programs for the aging and disabled.

Thank you for partnering with us to restore hope and change lives this Christmas. We need your support now more than ever.

Click here to donate.

May you and your family enjoy a blessed holiday season!