Assisting Veterans in need, providing services to those who have served our country
Lisa DH Aquino| July 2020 | Catholic Anchor July is a time to celebrate our nation. It’s also a time to celebrate and honor the brave men and women who serve our country each day. These heroes are dedicated to something bigger than themselves – the good of our entire nation. These heroes fight for…
Grow Local, Give Local fund supports refugee farmers and hungry Alaskans
Throughout the week, CSS has honored the strength, courage, and resilience of millions of refugees. These same traits also define home grown Alaskans and are the cornerstone of how we treat one another and welcome newcomers into our communities. To celebrate World Refugee Day with our community, and support Alaska’s newest arrivals, Catholic Social Services has developed an innovative fund called…
Refugee essential workers, a key part of our community
A large part of the RAIS program is education and employment services. RAIS staff works diligently to find meaningful employment for refugees. Refugees in Anchorage are often employed as essential workers and have served our community through the most challenging times. Refugees work in hospitals, grocery stores, and restaurants, providing care and services. One of…
Addressing Racism and Praying for George Floyd and his Family
Our prayers are with George Floyd and his family. Our prayers are also with our nation as we mourn the loss of Mr. Floyd and so many other people of color who have been injured or killed because of the color of their skin. Our nation has a long and terrible history of racism, and…
Reflecting on community support and our work at CSS
Written by Robin Dempsy, Chief Program Officer I hope that you and your loved ones are safe and healthy as we practice social distancing and hunkering down. If we haven’t met, my name is Robin Dempsey and I am the Chief Program Officer. As the Chief Program Officer, I have the privilege of working with…
Saint Francis House transitions to a Fast Track Pantry
In response to COVID-19, St. Francis House Food Pantry has converted to a fast track pantry. Bronwen Nicholls, St. Francis House Food Pantry Director, and Jose Urrutia, Food Pantry Coordinator, took time to explain what this transition means to clients and staff. Pre-packaged food boxes are available for pick up at St Francis House (3710…
Finding light and beauty in trying times
Opinion Piece by Lisa Aquino published by Catholic Anchor, April 2020 “I don’t think of all the misery, but of all the beauty that remains.”– Anne Frank Right now, this quote speaks to me. As I am writing, we are amid a pandemic. When this article is published, I don’t know if we will be…
Stimulus Payments & Unemployment Benefits: Find Hope with the CARES Act
Wondering if you can access the stimulus payments or extended unemployment benefits because of coronavirus? Learn about the process and eligibility.
Profound Effects of Small Deeds
Generous donors and strong partnerships make it possible for Brother Francis Shelter to facilitate programs and support volunteers that carry out our mission. These volunteers carry out programs and provide much needed services at Brother Francis Shelter. Debbie is one of these wonderful volunteers. Debbie has a background in healthcare and over 40 years’ experience…
Maintaining our connections and hope amid COVID-19 isolation
Opinion Piece by Lisa Aquino published by ADN on March 23, 2020 These are challenging days, but it is during this time we must find the drive in our spirit and the love in our hearts to reach out. We are connected, and we can stay connected through COVID-19 or anything else that may come….