When Penny Beasley heard that St. Joseph Diner would be opening to in-person, indoor dining; she knew that’s where she needed to be. On August 21st Penny and her family, parishioners of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Lafayette, took over St. Joseph Diner - every shift, for the entire day with relatives and friends. They wore matching pink t-shirts. They brought festive cupcakes to share. What would compel a family to this sort of generosity? Her name was Charley Rose, and she would have been 13.

Through Crossroads Collective’s Antique Crucifix Project, at-risk youth gain vocational skills for a hopeful future. The prayers of a closed-down monastery in Europe continue to inspire faith in Acadiana. And, the programs of Catholic Charities of Acadiana to those experiencing homelessness, hunger, and poverty receive another source of funding.

Instead of starting the 2022-23 school year with a traditional in-service for faculty and staff, St. Pius Elementary took their teachers out - in service to the community!

I'm not from here. But I sure ended up here.

I was born in Southern Alabama many years ago. My upbringing was tough. Like many people, I did what I had to do to survive. Struggled with alcohol and drug addiction for years. Still do.

The funny thing is, there's way more to it than just drug and alcohol addiction; a lifestyle comes with it. You hang around a barbershop long enough, you're gonna get a haircut.

The thought of someone you know not having a place to sleep at night is terrifying.

Our shelter is designed to sleep 48 people. As area shelters meet their capacity, we do our best to not turn anyone away. Forced to make space on the floor, we are currently operating above capacity.

Last night, 81 people needed a place to sleep.