Bethany House is our name. The name our founder, Father Charles McNaboe, so treasured as the epitome of his dream to provide sustenance and shelter, hope and dignity for "these least brothers" that he opened Laredo's own Bethany House in 1982. As in scripture, it is a home for hot meals, comfort; a place to share friendship, take refuge and an opportunity to seize another chance to heal broken lives.
Over the past twenty-five years Bethany House has continued to carry on the original mission to "feed the hungry and to shelter the homeless." Today, Bethany House is the only agency to serve three hot meals on site six days a week and to deliver meals to homes for the elderly and disabled; is the only agency to prepare meals for children's programs throughout the city. The Shelter Complex provides the city's only public emergency shelter for men and women, the only transitional housing for individuals and families and offers the only resources for basic life amenities and case management at the Resource Center.
The need for our services becomes greater each year. With our expansion into shelter and resource services the dynamics of our Bethany House operations have changed dramatically, both in sheltering and meals. Much of this demand is reflected in our one-third population who live below the poverty level. Unfortunately, the number of children living below poverty is 42.3%. Hunger is a primary concern for families. Some manage only one daily meal, especially for the parent(s). Poverty situations also lead to the eventual desperation of dealing with homelessness.
You, I and even the "least brothers" have daily opportunities to share and care for each other.The best in our city is the gift we all can give to reach out and touch those whose lives teeter on the edge or who need a chance to rise back up and start again. One of the most touching sights is when there is witness to even the poorest sharing with another with greater need.
You, our faithful and generous supporters, have stood by Bethany House throughout our efforts to continue to meet the needs of those who suffer the indignity of hunger, poverty and homelessness. We are truly grateful for your friendship, love and kindness. Thank you for your blessings, whether you have made donations, in-kind contributions or have volunteered your time.
May the Lord continue to bless you!
Barbara Kazen
President
Message from the President
