Care Bags containing hygiene products donated by parishioners are assembled by parishioners on the patio following all Masses. These bags are then distributed to local service agencies serving the homeless in our community. Monetary donations are used to purchase specific items needed to complete more than 1,000 Care Bags.
For information, contact Jackie Treuting (805) 495-4630
Frank McAvoy, a long-time parishioner at St. Jude’s, encountered homelessness in a deeply personal way when his son lived on the streets in the Westlake area. Although friends helped ensure his son had food, he chose not to remain in contact with his family. This painful experience remained close to Frank’s heart and helped deepen the parish’s awareness of the needs of those experiencing homelessness.
When Frank passed away, his family requested donations to Loaves and Fishes in his memory, in lieu of flowers. With these gifts, the parish organized a winter outreach project that provided warm clothing to fifty-nine homeless men, women, and children throughout Ventura County. The ministry was named Frank’s Homeless in honor of Frank McAvoy and his compassionate spirit.
Since that initial project, Frank’s Homeless has grown into an ongoing ministry that provides hygiene Care Bags to service agencies serving the homeless in Ventura County. Parishioners are encouraged to donate unused hotel toiletries from business and leisure travel, which are combined with other essential personal-care items. A special collection is also held each February to help supply the Care Bags.