Seeing the Work of Catholic Charities of Acadiana: Campus Tours

We are incredibly grateful to our friend, Dr. Paul Whittington, owner of Whittington Veterinary Clinic, who made the generous decision to briefly close his business on a recent Friday afternoon and bring his entire staff of 17 people to tour the programs of Catholic Charities of Acadiana. It is deeply meaningful to see a business owner prioritize such an experience, taking the time to understand and connect with the mission of serving our neighbors experiencing homelessness, hunger, poverty, and situational crisis in our community. This is in the leadup to the 7th Annual Anything Over Rice Cookoff in Vermilion Parish, in which half of the proceeds will support St. Joseph Shelter.

Dr. Whittington reflected on the experience:

“The staff at Whittington Vet Clinic had a very eye opening and emotional experience when visiting the programs of Catholic Charities of Acadiana. What was impressed on me was the fact that those experiencing homelessness are in need of both grace and understanding from those around us, along with real assistance to help them get back on their feet and pointed in the right direction. We all take this life for granted. Being here was a humbling experience, one that left us all wanting to help. Kayla and Ben not only shared the “what”, but did an amazing job explaining the “why” behind what Catholic Charities of Acadiana does. Experiencing these programs and services for yourself allows you to see the “why”. Now we can be in a position to help fill the gaps and get involved.”

Paul’s action is a powerful reminder of the impact that local businesses can have when they engage with our work. Reach out to Ben Broussard at ben@catholiccharitiesacadiana.org or (337) 235-4972 x1208 to schedule a tour of Catholic Charities of Acadiana and see firsthand the work being done to support the most vulnerable among us.