Footwear, Foot Care and More at Dorothy Day Place
Our Hearts to Your Soles: An Important Tradition at Catholic Charities
For 19 years, the Twin Cities-based “David Lewis Memorial, Our Hearts to Your Soles” has brought together physicians, surgeons, nurses, their families, local businesses, and a host of volunteers to provide Red Wing shoes and boots, foot care, and more for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness in the Twin Cities. Dr. Lance Silverman, an orthopedic surgeon, and Chris Boosalis are spearheading this year’s event, and The Silverman Family is providing financial support.
Historically the event has provided nearly 500 individuals with socks, shoes, and a professional foot and ankle examination, all at no charge. At this year’s event, Our Hearts to Your Soles is donating 600 pairs of socks, Red Wing provides shoes and boots, licensed medical professionals will perform foot screenings, Allina Health System is donating shoe covers, Fairview nurses are providing Flu and COVID vaccinations, a variety of Twin Cities lawyers are providing legal guidance, and professional shoe fitters and orthotists are helping to fit shoes.
“We’re deeply grateful for our longtime partnership with the Our Hearts to Your Soles team of volunteers,” said Jamie Verbrugge, President & CEO of Catholic Charities Twin Cities. “Year after year, they not only generously provide much-needed shoes and footcare to our neighbors, but they also bring warmth, compassion, and respect to every person they serve.”
The event will take place at Catholic Charities Saint Paul Opportunity Center providing a wide range of benefits to participants, including:
A Community of Care
The event’s continued success is largely thanks to the vision of Dr. Lance Silverman, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Silverman has spearheaded this effort for many years, working alongside more than 100 community partners to embody caring for individuals experiencing homelessness.
“There are people in the Twin Cities who simply cannot afford to visit a doctor or to replace their worn-out shoes,” said Dr. Silverman. “Our Hearts to Your Soles provides an outlet for economically burdened individuals to receive the care and attention they deserve. As the temperatures continue to drop, everyone needs warm and protective footwear. This is a great way to help those in need in our community.”
A Northside Halloween Tradition
Trick-or-Treaters Visit from Northside Child Development Center
For more than a decade, children from Catholic Charities Northside Child Development Center (NCDC) have upheld a Halloween tradition of trick-or-treating at the agency’s administrative offices. This tradition began when the team at NCDC were looking for ways to engage students and staff in a fun way — and help them learn more about Catholic Charities first-hand. “We wanted to go to different spaces within the agency to meet people and make connections,” said Rasheena Bickham, program manager at NCDC. “And we also wanted to give our kids the best experience trick-or-treating on Halloween — especially because it isn’t always safe for some children to go out in their neighborhoods at night.”
Since then, a van full of NCDC staff and students has traveled to Catholic Charities’ administrative center every year on Halloween. And when Catholic Charities moved its Minneapolis headquarters to the Frey Center at Elliot Park, NCDC’s trick-or-treaters followed.
Catholic Charities staff and NCDC students love this Halloween tradition. Everybody wears their best costumes, kids carry buckets for candy, and chaperones bring bags to fill up for older kids who have to stay behind to attend classes. Afterwards, everybody at NCDC — and their families — are invited to a fall festival. Catholic Charities serves nearly 200 children each year at Northside, so these festivals draw a large crowd!
What it Means for Families
NCDC is an important resource for families who are eligible for state-subsidized childcare. Celebrations aside, NCDC is a place that many North Minneapolis families rely on for early childhood programming, childcare, and education for children from 6 weeks to 12 years of age. Beyond those services, Northside is a community hub in its neighborhood, offering many family-focused events, parent education, and parent support groups.
“Our main objective is to create fun experiences for all of our kids while they are here,” said Rasheena. “We tell new parents that we don’t know what kids go through once they leave us, so when they are here, we give 100% to them and make sure that every minute is full of fun, joy, learning, and love.”
Aging and Disability Services in Action
Helping Neighbors with Disabilities
When you meet Megan, her love for local history is obvious. She especially loves stories about neighborhoods and buildings in St. Paul.
Megan lives with a disability that makes it impossible for her to work. She relies on supportive services that help her with daily life. Although she can’t work, Megan spends time volunteering, crafting, and caring for her two cats.
For years, Megan lived in an apartment that wasn’t safe. “It wasn’t a good place to live,” she remembers. “I was constantly stressed, and I knew I needed to get out.”
She didn’t have the resources to move on her own, but when her building was condemned, leaving was the only option. Megan turned to Catholic Charities for help.
“It’s a relief to know there’s someone I can call when something comes up. Catholic Charities has my back.”
A Safe and Supportive Home
Megan was connected to Catholic Charities Aging and Disability Services program. Our staff helped her find a safe apartment. They helped make sure she would continue receiving the in-home care she needs.
“They helped me get out, and I couldn’t have done it without them,” Megan says. “It’s a relief to know there’s someone I can call when something comes up. Catholic Charities has my back.”
Megan emphasizes that without Catholic Charities’ help, she could have lost her housing and benefits. “Catholic Charities made sure I had a place to go,” she said. “They took care of the details so I didn’t end up on the street.”
Catholic Charities continues to help manage Megan’s support network. Staff make sure she has consistent in-home care and can live independently.
Finding Stability Again
“They didn’t just find me an apartment,” Megan said. “They made sure I had the support in place to keep it.”
Now, Megan feels safe for the first time in years. She can focus on her health, enjoy her pets, and live with peace of mind. Catholic Charities Aging and Disability Services has helped people like Megan for nearly 50 years.
Megan hopes to remain active in advocating for the programs that have helped her. Especially as cuts to Medicaid bring her benefits into question. “Without their help, I’d be in a shelter or worse,” said Megan. “Instead, I have a home where I can take care of my health.”
Teaming Up with the Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings Support Northside Youth
This summer, students from Catholic Charities Northside Child Development Center were invited to the Minnesota Vikings TCO Stadium training facility! Students at Northside had just completed a summer-long health and wellness program put on by the Northside Achievement Zone, and loved showing off their moves to Vikings starters J.J. McCarthy, Josh Metellus, Blake Cashman, C.J. Ham, Brian O’Neil, Donovan Jackson, and others.
This special experience was made possible by the Ed Block Courage Award Foundation, an organization that partners with NFL teams to coordinate engagement with and support for impactful youth programs, like the Northside Child Development Center.
Check out some photos from the day:
An Ongoing Partnership
The Minnesota Vikings continue to support Catholic Charities with their Vikings Table Food Truck, a program with the mission of serving healthy meals and nutrition education to youth across the Greater Twin Cities area. Currently, the Vikings Table is providing meals every other week to children and families at the Northside Child Development Center, and Hope Street Youth Shelter!
For busy families with children, and for youth experiencing homelessness in Minneapolis, regular access to free, delicious, healthy meals makes a huge difference.
Let’s cheer on our Northside students as they kick off a new school year, and the Minnesota Vikings as this season gets going!
Homelessness Can Affect Anyone
Navigating Unexpected Crises
Eric is a successful architect who founded a national firm in the Twin Cities metro area. He spent decades organizing large projects and built a successful life for himself. But behind the scenes, Eric was struggling with anxiety and depression. He tried to manage it alone, but the pressure became too much.
He began self-medicating with alcohol. He went through in-patient treatments but was still struggling. Eventually, Eric’s marriage fell apart. Not long after, he fell and suffered a traumatic brain injury. This led to seizures and mounting medical issues that left him unable to walk or work.
Eric’s savings were drained. He was evicted from his apartment. Eric heard knocking one morning, and when he got to the door, “three sheriffs were there,” he remembered. “They served me the eviction notice and told me to take whatever I could carry.”
“I didn’t know how to survive being homeless, but the staff here showed me what to do—they helped me step by step.”
Finding Safety and Shelter
Eric has been staying at Dorothy Day Place since September of 2024. He has a bed at the overnight shelter. He has access to meals, laundry, and essential services at the daytime center across the street. Catholic Charities staff also connect Eric to medical care, therapy, and housing navigation.
“I didn’t know how to survive being homeless,” Eric says. “But the staff here showed me what to do—they helped me step by step.”
Dorothy Day Place Saves Lives
Eric’s case manager has helped him apply for benefits, get on the Section 8 housing waitlist, and maintain regular mental health treatment. Eric has now been sober for over a year. “I haven’t had a drink in 15 months,” he said. “I’ve got too much to live for now.”
Eric is also helping others. He hopes to become a certified peer recovery specialist. “I love talking to people, showing them the steps they can take,” Eric explained. “Because I’ve been there.”
Today, Eric is working to secure permanent housing and to heal. “This place saved my life,” he says. “You’ve got to give hope to people . . . Catholic Charities gave me that.”
A Special Northside Performance
Catholic Charities Northside Child Development Center Presents: Annie Jr.
Catholic Charities Northside Child Development Center (NCDC) collaborated with the Northside Achievement Zone (NAZ) this summer to present a special performance of Annie Jr. at the Capri Theater in Minneapolis!
Students at NCDC worked hard and rehearsed all summer before the red carpet was rolled out for them and their families. Northside’s rendition of Annie Jr. featured a ten-year-old Oliver Warbucks, a strong-willed Miss Hannigan, a wonderful lead Annie, and the rest of the amazing characters that make the play so iconic.
View some of our favorite photos from the evening:
Catholic Charities Employee Recognition 2025
Recognizing Catholic Charities Employees
Catholic Charities Twin Cities helps tens of thousands of people each year, thanks to more than 500 dedicated employees. This year, nearly 200 employee recognition award nominations were submitted by staff across the agency. Each nomination contained a story of dedication, compassion, and excellence. We’re honored to announce the recipients of the 2025 Employee Recognition Awards:
Leadership Award
Sandrel Givens
Program Manager II, Midway Housing Programs
Sandrel has been a leader at Catholic Charities even before she took a leadership role. She is kind, creative, patient, understanding, and deeply committed to our residents, clients, and staff. She inspires those around her and gives hope in even the most challenging times. Nominators described her as someone who navigates transitions with grace, ensuring no gaps in services for clients and no disruption for staff. With strong communication skills, an open-door policy, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset, she uplifts her team while keeping clients at the center. Sandrel embodies the very essence of leadership, guiding with compassion, strength, and integrity.
Advocacy Award
Michael Kaup
Program Manager II, Housing-Focused Behavioral Health Support Team
Michael was nominated for their passion and dedication to advocating for those most vulnerable. They demonstrate genuine care for both staff and guests and models clear, compassionate communication. Michael’s ability to build strong outside partnerships has strengthened our programs and expanded resources for clients. Colleagues describe them as deeply invested in their work, with a commitment that makes a meaningful impact across the agency. Michael’s advocacy is not just professional—it is personal, heartfelt, and transformative.
Supportive Services Award
Justin Whitcomb
IT Services Manager
Justin is recognized as one of the most collaborative, patient, and supportive team members at Catholic Charities. Despite the constant demands on his time, he meets each request with composure, patience, and a deep willingness to help. Nominators noted his ability to make others feel prioritized, even when he has countless other responsibilities. He listens, responds thoughtfully, and develops solutions that keep the agency moving forward. Justin’s dedication, humility, and calm support for both staff and programs embody the spirit of supportive services.
Teamwork Award: Family Service Center Team
Allie, David, Rafito, Courtney, Andrea, Erika, Molly, Nadia, Nacole, Imani, Monique, Giselle, Vetti, Latanya, Trevon, Sue, Velissa, and Langston
Allie, David, Rafito, Courtney, Andrea, Erika, Molly, Nadia, Nacole, Imani, Monique, Giselle, Vetti, Latanya, Trevon, Sue, Velissa, and Langston
The Family Service Center team exemplifies true teamwork. In the past year, they served nearly 400 people, including over 200 children, ensuring families in shelter are met with kindness, care, and safety. Their trauma-informed, collaborative approach supports adults with housing and resource connections, while making sure children are connected to schools, transportation, and services. Together, they oversee day-to-day operations, provide stability, and bring compassion into every interaction. Colleagues describe them as a team that leans on each other during challenges and celebrates successes together. The Family Service Center team is a shining example of what it means to serve with dedication and heart.
Inclusion & Belonging Award
Kuatree Dillard
Unit Manager, Diversion Program
Kuatree excels at building genuine and caring relationships across programs and departments. She seeks out those she doesn’t know and makes a point to welcome everyone. Her ability to encourage diverse perspectives ensures all voices are heard, fostering a workplace where people feel valued and respected. Colleagues shared examples of her advocacy for youth, her efforts to build equity into systems, and her support for staff leadership development. Her influence has created a more inclusive workplace culture where differences are celebrated, learning is constant, and everyone belongs. Kuatree leads with compassion, thoughtfulness, and a deep commitment to justice.
Outstanding Supervisor Award
KaTina Cummings
Program Manager II, Coordinated Access to Housing and Shelter (CAHS)
KaTina’s nominators describe her as both a powerful leader and a supportive mentor. From the very start, she has been welcoming, open to conversation, and committed to helping others grow personally and professionally. She leads by example—demonstrating what she asks of others, modeling calm in difficult situations, and listening deeply to her team. KaTina has spent over 10 years advocating for homeless families, finding housing opportunities for those with the highest barriers and fighting for fairness when families are denied. She is admired for her integrity, honesty, and dedication, and for creating an environment where her team feels supported and valued. KaTina’s leadership is transformative, both for her team and for the families she tirelessly serves.
Organizational Sustainability Award
Amanda Lube
Senior Government Grants Officer
Amanda’s grant work resulted in $14 million in public sector funding in the past fiscal year. This extraordinary achievement required not only expertise in Catholic Charities’ programs, but also the ability to bring together leaders, finance, and funder goals with creativity and precision. Nominators described her strategy and follow-through as essential to making our programs a reality. Amanda’s commitment to excellence in grant writing strengthens the foundation of our mission, ensuring we have the resources to serve thousands across our community.
Rising Star Awards
Alex Green, Mental Health Practitioner III, Children’s Day Treatment Program
Alex Green, Mental Health Practitioner III, Children’s Day Treatment Program
Alex has been described as a bright light, bringing energy, creativity, and compassion to her work every day. She creates joyful, imaginative experiences for children facing significant challenges, from leading interactive quests with goblins and dragons, to developing thoughtful, structured lessons. Her ability to meet children with both patience and fun helps them build skills, confidence, and hope. Colleagues praised her calm, steady presence in high-energy environments, her commitment to teamwork, and her embodiment of Catholic Charities’ values—dignity, compassion, collaboration, and empowerment. Alex truly is a rising star whose impact is already felt deeply by clients, coworkers, and the agency.
Kasia Lee, Housing Intake Specialist, Higher Ground St. Paul Residence
In just one year, Kasia has become a trusted and valued part of the Higher Ground St. Paul team. As Housing Intake Specialist, she quickly learned the complex eligibility criteria for multiple housing programs, and now partners closely with case managers to support applicants and residents alike. Nominators emphasized her compassion, professionalism, and the dignity with which she treats every client. Her positive attitude and collaborative approach make her a joy to work with and a clear rising star at Catholic Charities.
Nasha Jordan, Case Manager III, Aging and Disabilities Program
Nasha’s passion for her work shines through in everything she does. Colleagues describe her as smart, resourceful, and resilient, with a deep commitment to clients and coworkers alike. She brings joy to the office, offers a listening ear during difficult times, and consistently puts clients first. Nasha demonstrates compassion, empowerment, and integrity every day, making her an inspiring presence for her team and those she serves. She is a rising star who brings energy and heart to her role.
Client Services Award
Shelley Nichols
Case Manager III, Homeless Elders Program
For over 38 years, Shelley has dedicated her career to serving with compassion and persistence. Nominators shared countless stories of her advocacy, her expertise in housing older adults, and her ability to streamline processes to put clients first. From intake to housing case management, Shelley has consistently supported the most vulnerable with dignity and skill. Her colleagues describe her as an irreplaceable teammate whose commitment has never wavered in decades of client-centered work. Shelley’s impact has been profound across generations of clients and coworkers. Shelley will be retiring this next month, and the nominating staff couldn’t think of a more fitting way to show gratitude than to let her know how deserving she is of this year’s Client Services Award.
On behalf Catholic Charities Leadership, thank you, Shelley, for your commitment and the gifts you’ve brought to the Catholic Charities community for almost 40 years. Congratulations.
Client Services Award
Zeporah Wallace
Mental Health Practitioner IV, Children’s Day Treatment Program
Zeporah is described as “a true treasure and blessing” to the children she serves. She fosters safe, nurturing spaces for children who have often experienced deep trauma, breaking down barriers with consistency, patience, and compassion. Colleagues highlighted her gift for connecting with children who struggle to trust, and her ability to empower students to find their voices. Through her warmth, structure, and integrity, Zeporah transforms lives and models Catholic Charities’ core values in action.
Client Services Award
Mary L. Senger
Assessment Specialist, Saint Paul Opportunity Center
Mary has been serving clients at Catholic Charities for more than five years with compassion, dedication, and exceptional quality. She goes above and beyond in her intake work—taking extra steps to connect clients with additional services, such as the Elders Program, when needs arise. Known by many longtime clients by name, Mary has built trust and meaningful relationships that extend beyond the intake desk. She is described as client-centered, dependable, and someone who embodies the spirit of service in every interaction.
Client Services Award
Patricia Longs
Case Manager II, Scattered-Site Housing Program
Pat exemplifies trauma-informed care in her case management, even with clients facing extreme challenges. Colleagues praised her patience, resourcefulness, and ability to collaborate with community resources to support client success. Whether helping a client remain housed, supporting educational goals, or leading group sessions to foster community, Pat demonstrates excellence and compassion. She is seen as a wealth of knowledge, a mentor to peers, and a legend in her work at Catholic Charities.
Recognizing Years of Service
Congratulations to Catholic Charities employees who have reached the following service milestones:
35 Years
Marla Backer
30 Years
John Gambino
25 Years
Yolanda O’Reilly
20 Years
Shari Sibbald
Zeporah Wallace
15 Years
Brenda Beaulieu
Bruce Hall
Cassandra Ayash
Elizabeth Knight
Hannah Puffer
Jasson Edward Merrill Massey
Lisa Welch
Novolia Latrese Tindall
Richard Britten
10 Years
Alicia Jean Gillmore
Crystal Porter
Lakeisha Yates
Lynnette Williams
Molly Lo
Rasheena Bickham
5 Years
Aja Marie Loscheider
Alicia Ann Carlson
Chantell Ford
Emilia Lewin-Karras
Erik Roger Olson
Jennifer Lynn Heras
Madria Walker
Marcia J. Popp
Mary Lisa Senger
Paul M. Harvey
Richard Donn Cotton
Shemariah L. Jenkins
Thomas Rafito Lorenzo
1 Year
Adekola Adediran
Adriana Martinez Diego
Aleesa Baakko
Alexander Deming
Alexandra Green
Alexis Mae Harcey
Alexis Shaw
Alicia Renee Sanchez
Alyssa Toni Leach
Amanda Luedtke
Amani Wagner
Angelina Martinez
Anthony Wilson
Artist Graham
Austyn Hartwell
Bianca Moore
Brion Poole
Capria Lee
Carys Frances Church
Chantell Perkins
Christian Jelks
Cieara Keaunte Simms
Cory Evans
Dante Dayee
Dashana Golds
Deondre Riley
Dhuguma Bati
Eileen Katherine Grace
Elizabeth Halbert
Emoni Polk
Ema Corahni
Evalynn Eleby
Frank Edwards
Geroldine Anderson
Gracie Virginia Evans
Iqra Mohamud Abdullahi
Jennifer Danielson
Jessica Dreischmeier
Jessica Smith
Jimmy Hardin
John Fahrendorf
John Marston
John Thaysen Clay
Kasia Lee
Kate Martig
Katiya Janiece Longs
Khia Ross
Kwedeh McBorrough
Lamin Touray
Lashawnda Manson
LeAnne Wilcox
Light Bastian Love
Lorraine Lige
Majesty Holden
Malea Seng
Margaret Larson
Mariah Turner
Micah Isaiah Jamaal Coatie
Miguel Jones
Molly Grosz
Monique Carrillo
Nicole Grosz
Olivia Harris
Patrick Joseph Bayle
Raheem G. Finklea
Rosamaria Brooks
Roseline Momo
Sameya M Osman
Samuel Lopez Bautista
Samuel McWell
Sariah Jean Jackson
Shaynice Flemming
Stevana Ndumbe
Takeysha Sharron Robinson
Tamiko Allen
Tyshauna Washington
Veronica Dokken
Yvonna Yashica Kwan Foots
Extreme Weather Dangerous for MN’s Unsheltered
Hot Weather Challenges for Unsheltered People
When Minnesotans think of extreme weather, we tend to envision our state’s bitter winters. While cold weather is certainly dangerous for those who don’t have reliable shelter, extreme weather also includes the heat waves that cover the Twin Cities each summer.
The risk of a heat-related death is two to three hundred times higher for people living unsheltered than for the population at large — and “as temperatures continue to rise across the U.S. and the world, cities like Seattle, Minneapolis, New York or Kansas City that don’t have the experience or infrastructure for dealing with heat have to adjust,” says David Hondula, the climate scientist who heads Phoenix, Arizona’s office for heat mitigation.
In Kare 11’s recent story, Mary Emby and her daughter, Ginger Emby-Bovee, are among those seeking shelter from the sweltering conditions at Catholic Charities Dorothy Day Place in St. Paul.
Catholic Charities Staff Feel the Heat
Program Manager Jen Kissling says that staff at our Dorothy Day Campus have witnessed how heat-related illness can sneak up on a person, similar to frostbite or hypothermia. “In the winter, there aren’t enough available resources that help people stay warm — during the summer, it’s the opposite: we need to pay special attention to providing resources that help people stay hydrated and cool,” says Jen.
At the St. Paul Opportunity Center, staff place extra coolers of water outside, distribute cold treats, and have volunteers place frozen bottles of water around the patio for people to take. Jen explains that they also perform frequent welfare checks on the patio, making sure that people aren’t sleeping outside at midday, when they might not realize they’re becoming dangerously hot.
When Temperatures Rise, People Go Inside
“When it’s really hot outside, our meal counts spike,” says Jen. The Dorothy Day Place cafeteria serves hot meals three times a day, 365 days a year — typically, about 250 guests join each meal. When temperatures rise, that number can be as high as 350, which presents challenges for the kitchen. Beyond struggling to find enough volunteers to help prepare and serve food, Jen explains, “It also means that you have more people in that room, and heat can cause more irritability. By the second or third day of a heat wave, people can get pretty crabby.”
Kitchen staff are working hard to wash and refill extra water coolers every night, and make sure everyone in need of a healthy meal is able to eat. Jen smiles, “we’d love to see some new volunteers the next time it’s looking like a scorcher.”
A Lack of Public Spaces
Another compounding factor is that public spaces don’t always welcome people who are experiencing homelessness. Spaces that many of us use to stay cool — like movie theatres, museums, and shopping malls — are out of reach for many of the people we serve. Libraries are usually an option, but if someone tries to cool off in a grocery store, corner shop, or downtown lobby, they might be asked to leave. The scarcity of welcoming spaces compounds risk when it’s hot outside, explains Jen: “If our guests want to go to a library or a cooling station, they most likely have to walk to that place, often carrying their belongings. That can be super exhausting, especially for older adults. So we need to keep a careful eye on folks to make sure they’re okay.”
How Diversion Helped Chandra
Housing Emergencies Can Happen to Anyone
Chandra loves to help people and has always been a hard worker. For years, she worked at a nonprofit where she helped people access housing. Working with her community was meaningful to her, even though it could be draining. Chandra felt like she couldn’t help others when she wasn’t confident in her own life circumstances.
“I would tell my boss I didn’t feel comfortable teaching these classes because I’m not even there where I need to be,” Chandra explained.
In 2023, Chandra ended her marriage. She left her apartment after her landlord wouldn’t accept a partial rent payment. Chandra began experiencing homelessness. With nowhere else to turn, she began living in her car. Later that year, that car got stolen.
“As an adult without a vehicle . . . you cannot get groceries. You can’t do your laundry. You can’t do anything, and you don’t have money saved up to buy another car. It was horrible.”
Diversion Provides Vital Services
“As an adult without a vehicle… you cannot get groceries. You can’t do your laundry. You can’t do anything, and you don’t have money saved up to buy another car. It was horrible,” Chandra reflected.
For the next two months, Chandra lived in a hotel. She did everything she could to find housing and another job with enough hours to earn a living wage. After months of struggling, Chandra connected with Catholic Charities Diversion Program. Diversion operates the Hennepin County Shelter Hotline, which serves Hennepin County residents who are facing a housing emergency. It helps them explore all their options before entering a shelter.
Connecting to Stable Housing
Through Diversion, Chandra was connected to an agency that paid for her security deposit and first month’s rent. This was previously impossible, given her low credit score.
“My credit score was low when I originally got denied by a landlord for that subsidized housing,” Chandra reflected. “But when I applied for this financing [with the help of Diversion], I was approved for $2,000 – I was like, ‘you’ve got to be kidding me.’”
Chandra worked hard to find a job that offers flexible hours and allows her to spend time with her children. She’s still living in her apartment – more than one year later.
Unsheltered Homelessness for Older Adults
How Displacement Happens
Thomas and his wife Yolanda spent decades working hard so they could enjoy their golden years together. But after a flood took away their apartment and everything inside, they found themselves in a position they never expected: living outside as older adults. In 2024, Thomas and Yolanda endured months of unsheltered homelessness. They had to navigate freezing weather, chronic illnesses, and be on the move constantly to find places to sleep.
“Nobody is prepared to be homeless…I never thought it could happen in a million years,” Thomas recalled. “Weeks felt like months, and the days never seemed to end.”
A Safe Place to Go
Eventually, Thomas and Yolanda found shelter at Catholic Charities Dorothy Day Place in St. Paul. There, they had access to three meals a day, laundry, showers, case management services, and more. Staff at Dorothy Day Place referred Thomas and Yolanda to Catholic Charities Homeless Elders Program. They help vulnerable seniors move out of shelter and into safe, permanent homes. For Thomas, this was a significant turning point.
“I’m so serious…Catholic Charities saved our lives. They helped me. They turned my whole life around and helped me get back on track,” he said.
Moving Back Home
Temporary shelter and personalized case management support successfully resulted in permanent, independent living for Thomas and Yolanda.
In November 2024, they were the very first residents to sign a lease and move into a new affordable housing community for low-income seniors in Saint Paul. The move came right in time for Yolanda to cook Christmas dinner for their new neighbors – something she hadn’t been able to do for a long time.
“Do you know how good it felt to do that again?” said Thomas reflecting about hosting loved ones in their new home. “You know, we weren’t just thinking about ourselves. We were thinking about friends we made at Dorothy Day Place that we still talk to [today] . . . we check on each other.”
If it wasn’t for programs like the Homeless Elders Program to help you get back on track, then what are you going to do?”
Targeted Support and Resources Work
The ease in which anyone – young or elderly – can slip into homelessness is not lost on Thomas.
“You could have lost stuff through fire. You could lose stuff to a job, or an ended marriage or relationship, or just bad health,” Thomas said, “and if it wasn’t for programs like the Homeless Elders Program to help you get back on track, then what are you going to do?”
Today, Thomas and Yolanda are thriving as they turn their new apartment into a home. Thomas calls the place his castle and expresses deep appreciation for where he is now, thanks to the Homeless Elders Program.
“This program saves lives. And I’m the living proof.”
Funding the Homeless Elders Program
Thomas sat down with the Minnesota Star Tribune and shared his story during the 2025 Minnesota legislative session. His voice, along with the stories of two other Homeless Elders clients, played a role in the $1,000,000 appropriation that Catholic Charities Twin Cities received from the State this year in support of the Homeless Elders program.
The Homeless Elders Program last received support from the State in 2023 and has since helped more than 300 seniors move into permanent housing. With renewed funding, the program will continue to serve vulnerable older adults in the Twin Cities.