It has been well over a century since our Mother Foundress, Blessed Mary of Jesus the Good Shepherd (Frances Siedliska) first stepped foot on these shores and carried in her heart the mission that God had set before her, and the spirit of that mission lives on even today. Our Sisters dedicate themselves to the care of families all across the United States who need a helping hand, and it is with that important undertaking in mind that we write to you today.
Since 1954, our Sisters have been serving the needs of young people through institutions like Nazareth Academy High School and Holy Family University. It is their day-to-day experiences with students and recent graduates that have revealed to our Sisters a great need within the community: that of a safe, stable, and more affordable living environment for young women working to further their education and begin their professional lives.
Many young women today are sadly forced to remain in difficult and even dangerous home lives due to expense and circumstance. Adding in the expense and time required to seek higher education and it becomes almost impossible for young women to escape from situations that are detrimental to their well-being.
From her own experience and from hearing anecdotes in recent years, Sr. Maria Sophia Gerlach, CSFN, saw this need and was blessed with inspiration for a new mission seeking to lend a helping hand to these young women as they seek to study and work towards a better life, by creating a cooperative living space that they can call home.
Imagine it: a safe home where young women live together in community, sharing responsibilities, experiences, and even meals, secure in the knowledge that they will have a roof over their heads while they work towards a degree or begin their professional career. Would you consider making a donation to help us begin this much-needed mission?
It is no secret that the cost of living and of a college education continue to rise and that wages are not keeping pace. Yet, the value of a college degree is still worth it for many students. For some, finding an appropriate place to live can be a significant hurdle. On-campus housing can prove out of reach, and remaining with family may not be an option.
By living in community, these young women will be able to share expenses while reducing their expenditures as they further their education and provide one another with support during what can be a challenging time of life. They will be able to graduate with lower debt and focus their attention and earnings on bettering their lives rather than constantly playing catch-up to bills and expenses.
We know that our Sisters and the mission set before them by our Foundress are important to you. Time and again, you have shown us with your kind generosity that you wish to see their important work continue. Will you help us to provide care and support for a new generation of young women?
Our Sisters will be truly grateful for whatever you can share. You will become a partner in this important work, providing the means for these students to change their lives for the better!
