Since 1984, Saint Agnes Holy Cross Center for Women in downtown Fresno has served as a refuge for homeless and underserved women and their children. Operated by Saint Agnes Medical Center and the Sisters of the Holy Cross, the center provides daytime shelter, counseling and referral services, education and skills training, clothing, laundry and shower facilities, and social activities.
Each day, Saint Agnes Holy Cross Center for Women cares for an average of 130 women and 20 children. In one month alone, the center provides 500-plus articles of clothing for women and families, 875 showers, and 400 loads of laundry.
With a desire to not only meet its clients' basic needs, but also help them transform their lives and become self-sufficient, the center added MaryHaven to its campus in 1998. The 7,059-square-foot lifestyle improvement/skills training center provides rooms for education on health, parenting, computers and English as a Second Language, as well as sewing and crafts.
While mothers are in class or participating in other center programs, their children are supervised by staff and volunteers at The Gathering Place, a learning center complete with books, educational materials, toys and computers.
How can I help? Donations can be made directly to the Holy Cross Center for Womenthrough the Saint Agnes Foundation. Financial contributions, in-kind donations, and gifts of time are all important ways you can help. Your assistance in any of these areas is deeply appreciated:
Morning and afternoon snacks
In-kind donations of gently used or new clothing, especially for children
School supplies Disposable diapers
Toiletries for women (especially hotel/motel size)
Monetary donations to help support programs
The gift of your time to help in the clothing room, hospitality area, or The Gathering Place
Christmas gifts for a child, family, or single homeless person
Saint Agnes Holy Cross Center for Women 421 F Street P.O. Box 12225 Fresno, CA 93777 (559) 237-3379 (in downtown Fresno, across from Poverello House)
