FEEDING BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT

since 1982

Dear Friends,

September marks Hunger Action month, a time to bring the hunger crisis to the forefront. The latest statistics from Feeding America indicate that in 2022, more than 34 million Americans were food insecure with 9 million children and more than 5 million senior citizens lacking access to healthy, nutritious foods. These statistics are shocking and coupled with the recent surge in newly arrived guests, the numbers seeking help will soar even higher. This year our Fill the Truck campaign is committed to increasing access to food through our mobile soup kitchen, our onsite grab and go hot meal options and of course, our state-of-the-art digital choice food pantry, all of which have been stretched beyond believe to reach the hungriest among us. Your support of this campaign ensures that no one goes to bed with an empty stomach.

In September we also take time to give thanks to the Vincentian community who celebrated their founder, St. Vincent DePaul. At St. John’s University, students, faculty, staff, and administration spent a day in service to organizations across the city to remember Vincent’s humble beginnings and desire to serve those in greatest need. At Bread and Life, we are continually grateful to the students, faculty, staff and so many others who exemplify the charism of Vincent DePaul and who commit themselves to volunteering their time and talent so that others may have positive experiences. As Queen Raina once said, “We are stronger when we listen and smarter when we share,” and together we make a difference! Thank you to all of those who volunteer each week, each month and throughout the year to make what we do so incredibly special for those we serve.

As we approach the colder months, let us be mindful of those who are struggling and who are in search of a hot meal, warm shelter, and a welcoming smile.

With gratitude,

Sr. Caroline Tweedy, RSM

Executive Director

Sr. Caroline Tweedy, RSM

Executive Director

ON SEPTEMBER 27TH,

ST. JOHN’S BREAD & LIFE CELEBRATES WITH YOU

THE FEAST OF ST. VINCENT de PAUL

St. Vincent de Paul was born in Pouy, France on April 24, 1581, and was ordained a priest on September 23, 1600. Vincent devoted himself entirely to the alleviation of suffering of the poor. To that cause, he established the Confraternities of Charity, later known as the Ladies of Charity, in 1617. In 1625, he founded the Congregation of the Mission, his community of priests and brothers. With Louise de Marillac, he cofounded the Daughters of Charity in 1633. Vincent died in Paris on September 27, 1660 and was canonized in 1737. Pope Leo XIII declared him patron saint of all works of charity.

WE ARE NEARING OUR GOAL!

SO DON’T FORGET TO TAKE ACTION

AGAINST HUNGER THIS FALL!

Hunger doesn’t discriminate. It affects children, families, and seniors, across urban and rural areas alike. St. John’s Bread & Life plays a crucial role in alleviating this issue by distributing food, creating sustainable solutions, and advocating for policy changes. By supporting Bread & Life, you contribute to a collective force that addresses hunger and provides immediate relief to those in need. Your contributions, whether through volunteering, donations, or raising awareness, can transform lives, ensuring that everyone has access to nourishing meals and the opportunity for a brighter future.

This Hunger Action Month, let’s stand united against hunger. Join us on the frontlines of the battle against food insecurity. Together, we can turn the tide and ensure that no one goes hungry. Your actions, no matter how small, can have a profound impact. Let’s make this September a month of meaningful change and compassion.

St. John’s Bread & Life was a

“University Service Day”

site for St. John’s University!

Newton Country Day School

of the Sacred Heart

“We are humbled and grateful for the beautiful Thank You cards!” – SJBL

911 REMEMBERANCE

THROUGH

RENEWAL

For volunteering, contact:

Renelle Merstil at [email protected]