Through a variety of ministries, St. Francis de Sales Parish reaches out to assist in the needs of the communities of our church family, Walworth County, and beyond. There are many opportunities (with a variety of involvement levels) for you to make a difference! Your donations of time, talent and treasure are always appreciated, whether on a one time or reoccurring basis. A sampling of Human Concerns and Social Justice ministries includes:
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
Do you knit or crochet? Please consider joining our Prayer Shawl Ministry! As you knit each stitch, the shawl becomes a prayer for those who receive it. The prayer shawl reminds them they are surrounded by God’s love and are given comfort by the prayers of others. If knitting or crocheting are not your talent, we will gladly accept donations of cash to purchase yarn. For patterns and additional information, contact parishioner Elaine Johnson, elmajo@me.com.
JOHN THE BAPTIST, TANZANIA, AFRICA
St. Francis de Sales has partnered with St. John the Baptist church and school as our sister parish. We have helped them build their church and are currently supporting the construction of classrooms for about 150 children through drives and individual donations. To donate, click here. Questions? Contact parishioner Fran Zappitelli at fzapp@sbcglobal.net .
LAKE GENEVA FOOD PANTRY
The Lake Geneva Food Pantry is one of the only emergency food banks in the area and one of the largest food pantries in Walworth County. They allow the families to “shop” so they can pick up foods based on their preferences or needs. They accept monetary and food donations. Our parish has baskets (located in the parish center) for drop off of food items and we occasionally hold special food drives. For volunteer opportunities, a list of acceptable food items, and information on how to make a financial donation, please visit their website at https://www.lakegenevafoodpantry.org/food-donations.html.
SIDE BY SIDE
Made up of neighbors from Geneva Lake area churches, service organizations and local businesses, Side by Side meets with families in crisis to offer them assistance. Visit the Side by Side website. Here is a comprehensive list of resources for families: English / Español
NEW DAY WOMEN’S CLINIC
New Day Women’s Clinic offers help to women before, during and after pregnancy. Some of their services include counseling, ultrasounds, pregnancy testing, case management, parenting classes and more. You can support them financially through some of their fundraising efforts (watch the SFDS facebook page/bulletin), by donating, or by volunteering. Check their website for volunteer info or to take advantage of their programs: https://ndwomensclinic.com
SPIRIT OF HOPE MEN’S SHELTER
The Spirit of Hope Shelter houses homeless men in Walworth County. Due to Covid restrictions, only 8 men are in a Delavan area house until April. An employee is present 24/7 but volunteers under age 65 are also needed. There are 5-hour shifts in the day as well as overnight from 10pm to 8am. Additional information can be found on their website, http://spiritofhopeshelter.org or call Executive Director Lynn Curtis (262) 725-2016
THE TREE HOUSE
The Tree House helps protect children who experience child abuse and neglect. Located in Elkhorn, they work to establish relationships with community partners such as law enforcement, medical professionals, mental health professionals, educators, the district attorney’s office, corporation counsel, child protective services, and more. To volunteer or donate, please visit their website at https://treehouseforkids.net/about-tree-house/
OPEN ARMS FREE CLINIC
Open Arms Free Clinic provides comprehensive primary medical, dental, behavioral health, lab, and medication services at no charge for qualifying residents. Visit here for more information.
NEW BEGINNINGS
New Beginnings APFV provides comprehensive, compassionate support and services to people affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking, harassment and human trafficking. This includes crisis intervention, legal advocacy, safety planning, individual counseling, housing advocacy, children’s services, medical advocacy and information and referral to other relevant community resources. Visit here for more information.
