Outreach to the Poor & Vulnerable “As often as you did it to the least among you  did it to me.” Jesus The Roman Catholic Church has always felt compelled by the Gospel to assist and alleviate the plight of those less fortunate.  She has a long standing social history which at the forefront must always have a “preferential option for the poor.”  One of the major documents from Vatican II, entitled Guadem et Spes reminds us: The joys and the hopes, the grief’s and the anxieties of the people of this age, especially those who are poor or in any way afflicted, these are the joys and hopes, the grief’s and anxieties of the followers of Christ.[7] Despite our own economic difficulties, St. Patrick Parish has a long history in helping the poor and vulnerable here is a listing of how our parish attempts to help” the least among us.” Transient Ministry As a member of Trinity County’s Ministerial Association, limited assistance is provided to those who are can show proof of non-residency and in need of gas, food, lodging, or showering facilities.  Vouchers are given out by the priest or local clergy, to be redeemed at the Trinity County Sheriff’s Office located in Weaverville, 623-2611 Douglas City Soup Kitchen In cooperation with the local Baptist, Community, and  churches each Tuesday at the Douglas City Fire Hall, from 11:00-1:00PM, a free meal is served for anyone who wishes.   Some non-perishable food, which have been donated, are also available.  Douglas City Christmas Party In cooperation with NVCSS, Toys for Tots, the Trinity County Ministerial Association and other organizations, we provide an annual Christmas Party with festivities, holly and merriment meal and Santa Claus for residents of Trinity County.  Each year hundreds are served and leave with smiling faces, as they receive a gift in the true Christmas spirit. Michael J. Mangas Resource Center Located in the old parish hall, behind Holy Trinity Catholic Mission in Hayfork, Northern Valley Catholic Social Services sponsors a clothing closet.  Some non-perishable food is available.  Hours of Operation are Mondays from 11:00-1:30 PM and subject to change (please contact the parish office or NVCSS for more information).  A number of parishioners volunteer to staff the center. Northern Valley Catholic Social Services This organization was founded in 1986 with one employee in Redding; today  it is a multi-service agency that serves six counties and is funded by public and private resources, including generous donations of North State individuals and business.   This organization is sponsored by the Bishop of Sacramento and comes under the umbrella organization of Catholic Charities.  More information is available at the Shasta Office & Regional Administration: 2400 Washington Ave, Redding, CA 96001, 530-241-0552 or at their website: www.nvcss.org. Office 530-623-4383     Fax 530-623-2193     Rectory 530-623-2504