Saint John’s Hospice (SJH), a ministry of Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, is raising funds for its upcoming fourth annual “Boot Up Philly” community giveaway event on Saturday, October 19, 2024.
This year’s fundraising goal is $175,000.
“We are prepared to offer new boots, coats, underwear, food and other cold-weather items as well as access to service providers in the community such as legal assistance and medical support, to over 1,000 individuals and families,” said Barry Martin, Program Director at SJH. “Together we can ensure that no one in our community faces the hardships of winter alone.”
Funds raised will help Saint John’s Hospice purchase cold-weather essentials such as coats, footwear, socks, and undergarments for more than 1,000 individuals and families experiencing homelessness prior to the upcoming winter season.
In 2023, Saint John’s Hospice raised over $130,000 and distributed thousands of cold weather items to nearly 900 individuals who attended the outdoor event.
SJH was established in 1963 by Monsignor Anthony J. O’Neill, Pastor of Saint John the Evangelist Parish in Center City, and the Little Brothers of The Good Shepherd, as an outreach ministry to serve and assist those experiencing homelessness and poverty in Philadelphia.
Today, SJH has residences that serve approximately 150 individuals transitioning from homelessness to independent living annually, meal services for more than 200 community members each day, mailroom services for more than 1,700 individuals, as well as case management and medical and behavioral healthcare services.
To learn more about how to support SJH’s efforts to assist neighbors experiencing homelessness and poverty and the “Boot Up Philly” event, visit Saint John’s Hospice.
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