October 2007 - Sister Rita Marie Schonhoff, SSND

The shelter provides children services as well, including art therapy and counseling, and families are assisted with housing, health care, education, job training, as well as food, clothing, and furnishings.

Another program that has emerged through Sister Rita's efforts is the Pharmaceutical Assistance Program, which serves the elderly who do not qualify for Medicaid.

"We started looking at the assistance that was out there to help the elderly and found some available," Sister Rita said. "We help them prepare forms that they can take to their doctor and mail off. In turn, they get their medication at minimal or no cost."

Always looking for ways to involve the community and raise funds, Sister Rita also started a Crafter's Cooperative, which involves local craftsmen and artisans to share their crating skills with community members who use them to create crafts that are then donated, with the proceeds earmarked for the Cancer Relay for Life. She also has created a Whole Kids Outreach program and the newest addition, a Migrant Whole Health Outreach program to reach out to that growing population.

Sister Rita has never regretted her decision to return to this area, and her boundless energy and enthusiasm she bring to helping people here is making an incredible difference in many lives.
Sister Rita Marie Schonoff and many other dedicated missionaries work hard to bring God's comfort to America's poor and struggling Catholics. Will you consider helping them with a gift today? Please donate now securely. Thank you.