Surrounded by festive decor, delicious dishes, and even representatives from the Happy Santas, the ladies seemed to savor every moment of this unique holiday celebration. The trip wasn’t far from their home on the Westbank — a permanent residence that offers adult women with intellectual disabilities a safe, nurturing environment where they can thrive. Six of the eight available spots at St. Rosalie are currently filled.

Rosalind Freeman, 60, has been at St. Rosalie since 2016. Her mother, battling Leukemia, was nearing the point where she would no longer be able to take care of Rosalind. Fortunately, she was able to find Rosalind a loving home at St. Rosalie before she passed in 2017.

Rosalind, still missing her mother, talks about how they endured so much together before her passing. She volunteered in the Ochsner cafeteria in Belle Chasse for 31 years working in the same building as her mom.

Fran Johnson, manager of St. Rosalie, has been working diligently to help Rosalind and the women at St. Rosalie find volunteer or parttime work again. She said that since Hurricane Katrina, it has been challenging to match residents with opportunities. She has not given up and remains hopeful she can find something for everyone.

Rosalind leads a life at St. Rosalie almost like everyone else. She is regularly frustrated by the New Orleans Saints, goes shopping, visits Lakeside Mall, and goes out to eat regularly with the other women and staff. Formerly part of a bowling league, she bested her roommate during a recent trip to the bowling alley.

The majority of people who drive by the small brick building that houses the women of St. Rosalie may not realize the amount of joy and community that emanates from it. Staying true to the mission of Catholic Charities, St. Rosalie is helping nurture an environment where everyone can embrace dignity and hope. It is certain that the holiday lunch at Delacroix was a perfect
reminder of that mission—a small, yet powerful gathering!

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During summer break while attending LSU in 1975, Kevin ended up in the hospital after breaking his neck diving into shallow water. To the astonishment of his doctors, Kevin was not paralyzed. But Kevin did end up having to lay prone in his hospital bed for seven weeks with screws in his shaved head.

Kevin’s time in the hospital gave him a lot of time to reflect.

“I got a lot closer with my faith and God after I broke my neck. I prayed the Rosary all the time after that happened, from morning to night,” Kevin said.

Kevin also had lots of time for visitors.

Kevin connected with Nancy, who accompanied one of their mutual friends to visit him in the hospital. Nancy thought Kevin was “kind of goofy” at first but soon grew fond of him.

Nobody could have imagined that this experience would bring Kevin and Nancy together. Their pairing has led to a journey of
giving back to others, which makes them the logical choice to chair this year’s Archbishop Hannan Community Appeal (AHCA).

The AHCA was named in memory of Archbishop Philip M. Hannan, its founder, as a way of honoring his life’s legacy of service to the poor in our community. The annual volunteerdriven campaign supports the works of Catholic Charities, raising funds for the many challenges facing our community. This year’s goal is $2 million.

The accident was a humbling experience for Kevin and made him more mindful of his blessings, which further reinforced his lifelong inclination to never say no.
“That’s how I was raised,” said Kevin, who grew up in a faith-filled home, where his parents and grandparents were heavily involved in the church and community.

Nancy echoes Kevin’s feelings on how faith has played a significant role in both of their lives.

“Our strong faith grew from our Catholic school education and particularly from each of their parishes. Our blessed children and grandchildren have also brought us wonderful recognition of faith,” Nancy said.

“Serving with Catholic Charities highlights how service to others transforms lives—showing what faith really means.”

Kevin has served in various capacities on the boards of the J. Edgar Monroe Foundation and Ozanam Inn. Nancy has been heavily involved with the St. Vincent’s and St. Elizabeth’s Guilds, both of which support several programs at Catholic Charities. Some of her  rst volunteer experiences included the Blue Rose Ball and the Chef’s Charity, both benefitting St. Michael Special School.

Just as the AHCA emerged from the devastation of Hurricane Betsy, we’re reminded that unexpected and tragic events often pave the way for beautiful beginnings. As AHCA chairs, Kevin and Nancy hope their journey resonates with those considering supporting the mission of unwavering compassion from Catholic Charities.

Learn more about the AHCA at www.ccano.org/ahca.

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The Spirit of Hope Disaster Response Services program at Catholic Charities, re-activated nearly four years ago following the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, has been a lifeline to so many like Robert Green. With the start of hurricane season this month, Robert’s story is a reminder that together we can always rebuild while uplifting each other during some of the hardest times.

Although he’s endured a lot since Hurricane Ida, the reserved Robert often shifts the conversation back to others at Spirit of Hope who have helped him. His humility is a reflection of the spirit of community and recovery that Catholic Charities embodies. Cheryl Strickland was assigned to Robert’s case.

“Ms. Cheryl was my lifesaver. I ran out of options, and I was thinking of going back to Arizona. She’s been an absolute angel since day one. She practically saved my life. I’m humbled and very grateful to know her,” Robert said.

Residing in Ama, Louisiana, just across the Mississippi River from St. Rose in St. Charles Parish, Robert is a Louisiana transplant. He spent many years traveling the globe for his work in oilfields, including Brazil, Egypt, and India.

Robert hunkered down with a friend during Hurricane Ida, returning to find his home destroyed. Due to some restrictions regarding mobile homes, Robert’s options were limited with some organizations.

Spirit of Hope was a means of survival for Robert and many others in his neighborhood, which saw many mobile homes destroyed. Semi-retired due to a back injury, Robert lives on a fixed income, which made his recovery from Ida all that much more imperative.

Under the tenacious eye of Cheryl and Spirit of Hope, Robert eventually was able to purchase the temporary FEMA trailer provided for him. Spirit of Hope worked with the St. Charles Parish Long Term Recovery Group and The Salvation Army to provide funds for the purchase.

“I can’t rest easy until each client is made whole again,” Cheryl said.

“I’ve been in their shoes before, and I know how overwhelming the rebuilding process can be. I’m committed to doing everything in my power to ensure no one has to navigate their challenges alone. It’s the promise of Catholic Charities, the only way I know.”

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Following eviction, Oscar and Ryondas Gayton started living in their van. They put black pillowcases up at night and made sure that their two daughters (ages 9 & 10) used the restroom before going to sleep at night. They rotated between Walmart parking lots to not bring attention to themselves. Their days consisted of going to the gym in the morning to freshen up and then heading over to the local library for the kids’ homeschooling. Oscar and Ryondas both worked different shifts so that the girls were always taken care of.

This routine continued for nearly a year before the Homeless Outreach Team at Responsibility House spotted the family one afternoon and began the process of rapid re-housing. They were referred to Catholic Charities’ Bridges to Self-Sufficiency Program, which is a rapid re-housing program that provides rental assistance and case management services to homeless families, with the hopes that they remain housed. 

“Their positive attitude through the midst of their hardship was very inspiring. Their desire to want more, and their faith in God was so indescribable that it made me want to go over and beyond the call of duty,” said Johnell Williams, director of the Bridges program and the Gayton’s case manager.

The housing search began immediately. Johnell worked closely with the couple to complete a housing application, obtained needed documents and assisted them with referrals to other vital resources to get them back on their feet.

December 2023 was one to remember. Just a few days before Christmas, housing was found for the family. Through Catholic Charities’ Adopt-a-Family program, Oscar and Ryondas were even able to put presents under the tree for their children.

Their journey still wasn’t done with its challenges. After a car accident left them without transportation, Oscar courageously rode his bike across the Huey P. Long Bridge to get to work! With rental assistance ending and a new baby in the mix, they faced steep hurdles together. Yet, with resilience and community support, they’re overcoming each obstacle.

“Oscar and Ryonda were so appreciative of all the assistance they received. Their eyes saw the surface of adversity and hardship, but their hearts saw the essence of life and existence beyond their reality,” Johnell said.

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When Brother Martin High School junior Jacob Gustin was looking to fulfill some volunteer service hours last year, he did not know he was going to find the perfect opportunity almost in his backyard: Padua House.

Located near his family’s home in Belle Chasse, Padua House is a residential program for those of all ages with intellectual disabilities who are medically fragile.

Like many teens his age, Jacob is your typical busy high school student. While studying and preparing for college next year, Jacob works at Creole Creamery and is a member of his school’s powerlifting team. But he still makes sure to visit Jeremiah at Padua House about once a week.

“Best Friend! Best Friend!” yells Jeremiah each time Jacob walks in the door at Padua, his favorite part of his regular visits. Jeremiah has been a resident of Padua for about 20 years since suffering a life-changing brain injury at the age of three.

“It makes him happy to have someone to talk to and I am very grateful to make his life, even if it’s for just a couple of hours, a little bit better,” Jacob says.

From time to time, Jacob also helps feed some of the other Padua residents, many of which are unable to verbally communicate. Although being nonverbal could be seen as a deterrent, Jacob has discovered the magic of the fist bump as a universal greeting.

Volunteering at Padua House has been an eye-opening experience, to say the least, for Jacob. It has also helped him be more appreciative of his blessings and understanding of his place in this world.

“If you only understood how lucky you are to have this life and how much good you can do for the Padua residents. You can really make their day a lot better by just talking to them for a little bit,” Jacob says.

Even with college on the horizon, Jacob remains committed to returning to Padua House and visiting his “best” friend Jeremiah.

For more information about volunteering, visit www.ccano.org/volunteer-opportunities.

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Disaster Case Manager Cheryl Strickland (left) with Chavon Johnson

Chavon Johnson, a single mother of four, was wrapping up repairs and finishing touches on her new home in Destrehan in August 2021 when Hurricane Ida came ashore.

The mobile home, given to her by her aunt, was a blessing. Following some personal struggles, including a divorce, the home came into her life at the perfect time.

“She definitely came in like a Godsend and gave me and my children somewhere to live. I turned it into a home. Then unfortunately it was destroyed,” Chavon said.

Just like so many in the River Parishes, the damage to Chavon’s home was extensive. A tree fell on her home, and all the windows were broken, which allowed hours of rainfall to soak the inside and destroy all furnishings and most possessions. Fortunately, FEMA replaced Chavon’s home with temporary housing and provided some financial assistance, which was quickly exhausted.

When Chavon was deemed ineligible for additional assistance from the Restore Repair Program, her multiple attempts to correct the situation were unsuccessful. She eventually connected with Cheryl Strickland, Disaster Case Manager with Spirit of Hope at Catholic Charities. The program, which has been assisting people affected by Hurricane Ida since 2021, was recently given a six-month extension to operate until this August.

Due to a mixup, FEMA had on record that Chavon was a renter, not a  homeowner, which disqualified her for assistance from Restore. Cheryl began a dialogue with FEMA and got everything corrected, ensuring she received the necessary assistance. 

Cheryl and Spirit of Hope were also instrumental in helping Chavon acquire financial assistance to purchase her FEMA unit before the February 28th deadline this year. The lengthy process took three months, but ensured Chavon would not have to pay the hefty fines for those without an exit or purchase plan.

“My joy is seeing people get back into their homes. It was vital to get funders to understand this was a single mother with kids that deserved to have permanent housing,” Cheryl said. 

When asked about what’s next, Chavon is excited to move forward in her now permanent home.

“I want to thank everyone for all their help.There are so many blessings. I really appreciate it,” Chavon said.

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How did you meet your husband?

I met my husband Steve when we were both teaching at Holy Cross High School. My first year was his last year. He was completing his master’s degree and moving on to his Ph.D. coursework. We have now been married for 43 years. Steve teaches at Jesuit High School – also in his 43rd year. He teaches U.S. History and Civics. He was also an adjunct professor at Tulane University’s School of Professional

Do you have any children?

Yes, I have three sons:

• Justin is the oldest and he is an infectious disease physician practicing in Tucson, AZ at the University of AZ College of Medicine. He was just promoted to Clinical Associate Professor.
• Bryan is our middle son, and he is in private banking. He is a Senior Vice-President at Hancock-Whitney here in New Orleans. My daughter-in-law Kristen is an attorney with Baker Donelson. We are blessed with three grandchildren: Tucker, 5; Layton, 3; and Brielle, 1.
• Darren is our youngest son. He works at Tulane University and is the Manager of Campus Engagement and Executive Communications. He also enjoys local theater and has been in numerous plays with starring roles.

Any pets?

Kaye

Yes, we have a black lab named Kaye that we rescued during the pandemic. She is very smart, super spoiled, and sweet. Our vet says that she has won the doggy lottery!

What are some things you like to do outside of work?

I really enjoy my church ministries – especially those that the St. Catherine of Siena Women’s Club serves. Volunteering and doing my part in assisting those who are less fortunate is truly a calling. Calligraphy and painting also allow me to unwind. I especially love painting dogs and have painted my dog, family dogs, and those of my friends.

Favorite book?

To Kill a Mockingbird – It’s a poignant display of racial inequality, courage, determination with conviction, and compassion. Favorite movie? A Man Called Otto – Tom Hanks is such a gifted actor. He portrays Otto who is outwardly disgruntled after losing his wife, and treats his new neighbors who are being kind and considerate with rudeness. Ultimately, he leaves his house to those neighbors who were surprised by this. It brought who he really was into focus. It is not just the surface – understanding why and what is beneath is of ultimate importance.

Favorite movie?

A Man Called Otto – Tom Hanks is such a gifted actor. He portrays Otto who is outwardly disgruntled after losing his wife, and treats his new neighbors who are being kind and considerate with rudeness. Ultimately, he leaves his house to those neighbors who were surprised by this. It brought who he really was into focus. It is not just the surface – understanding why and what is beneath is of ultimate importance.

Favorite Mardi Gras parade?

Orpheus – my husband and I had the opportunity to ride one year through an invitation from the Sheraton Hotel. It was an extraordinary experience. Seeing it from a rider’s perspective is amazing. There is no leg room once you store your throws. My goal was to give them away quickly. They did last through the ride, though. Mission accomplished!

What is your favorite place to eat?

Mandina’s in Mid-City – a hidden gem and neighborhood favorite. It is what I feel is a real New Orleans experience. Great food – the best fried seafood anywhere (a guilty pleasure that is worth the calories and any health consequences!). The servers are very friendly and accommodating. It is my go-to for anyone that I am hosting from out of town.

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Any trepidation I might have felt as one starts a new career was easily unfounded. Just as Catholic Charities welcomes everyone with no bias, I too have felt the same inclusiveness. As we embark on this new Centennial, I have quickly experienced what has made this organization so singular over the last 100 years. I was fortunate enough to be able to spend several weeks with Sr. Marjorie as she prepared for retirement after 12 years at the helm. I am grateful for her time, attention, and continued support. Her impact here will be felt for many years to follow.

I was also blessed to be present during some notable milestones and events for Catholic Charities. At the Centennial Mass at St. Louis Cathedral in November, I realized how powerful 100 years of service truly is. It filled me with deep gratitude that further inspired me to unite with everyone to continue this agency’s vital mission. I also saw firsthand the compassion of our neighbors during our Thanksgiving basket drive and Christmas drive. There is no doubt I am in the right place, where God has called me to be.

Additionally, I witnessed how the community bands together during times of heartache. Following the devastating events on New Year’s Day on Bourbon Street, Deacon Martin and I were invited to represent Catholic Charities at an interfaith prayer service at St. Louis Cathedral, attended by then President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden.

Cynthia carries a candle during an interfaith prayer service for the victims of the Bourbon Street attack. Photo courtesy of the Clarion Herald.

We each carried a candle up the main aisle memorializing one of the victims. It was an incredibly emotional experience that I will never forget. I believe this solidarity I shared with those gathered is a reflection of the legacy and work of Catholic Charities over the last century as we offer hope, comfort and services to all. I want to assure all those seeking refuge in the shadow of desperation that they can always rely on Catholic Charities.

I owe a debt of gratitude to Fr. Tim Hedrick, the pastor of St. Catherine of Siena. His inspiring leadership has not only enriched my life as a Catholic but also ignited my passion for parish ministries. Through his guidance, my spirituality and relationship with Christ have flourished.

I’m invigorated by what is to come in 2025 and beyond and look forward to learning everything about our programs as well as developing relationships with staff , volunteers, supporters and friends. I look forward to taking this journey with all of you as we honor the past while building a brighter future together.

With gratitude and blessings,

Cynthia T. Hayes
President and CEO
Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans

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Toni and Lane with their son Dominic and baby daughter Sarah.

When Lane and Toni Dugas were contacted regarding the potential adoption placement of their daughter Sarah, they were eager to let their six-year-old son Dominic know about the new addition. When Toni shared the news with Dominic, he excitedly stated, “Let me go tell Dad!”

The joy and enthusiasm in the Dugas household were undeniably contagious. The couple had been working with Catholic Charities’ Adoption Services to adopt Sarah for about 18 months. Adoption Services is a full-service program that seeks to
link children of all ages to their forever families. Although Sarah’s adoption was closed, where the birth parents are not in contact with the adoptive parents, there is always flexibility later to make it open if everyone is in agreement.

Toni and Lane had struggled to start a family for quite some time prior to the open adoption of Dominic through Catholic
Charities, which took about two years. They first worked with a fertility institute, which became cost prohibitive.

“It wasn’t a good fit for us. They try to help you get pregnant at all costs. It didn’t make sense to me. If you have a child, you should provide a good environment and not be in debt from fertility treatments. We wanted to provide a stable
environment for our family in which they could flourish,” Toni said.

After looking into other options, Toni and Lane began giving adoption real consideration.

“We came to Catholic Charities and liked how the protocol worked. They try to keep the baby and mom together, offer
counseling and support for mom so when she decides to do adoption, it is really what she wants to do. We felt strongly about
that. It mattered how the parents felt about their decision. We see the child as such a gift, and we want the parents who gave us this gift to be happy and feel satisfied about their decision,” Toni said.

For parents in similar situations, Toni and Lane recommend keeping an open mind, trusting the process, and to be comfortable with waiting.

“Danna and Cindy at Adoption Services were knowledgeable and careful about each step in the process. Concern for the birth mom and the adoptive family were always their main priority. The waiting isn’t easy, especially when it’s close to getting a baby placed with you. But there is comfort knowing that you are dealing with an agency that has your best interest in mind,” said Lane.
For more information, visit ccano.org/adoption.

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Trey Reymond (far right) at his alma mater University of Notre Dame with his son Lee and father Leon, Jr.

As Catholic Charities celebrates its centennial year, the theme of legacy resonates deeply in the stories we’ve shared. Trey Reymond, who is serving as the 2024 chair for the Archbishop Hannan Community Appeal (AHCA), is yet another example of an individual, fueled by the legacy of his family, helping lead Catholic Charities’ vital campaign into the next Century of Service.

The annual AHCA, which is powered by the dedication of volunteers, supports Catholic Charities and addresses pressing community challenges. This year’s goal is $1.75 million to support the nearly two dozen programs Catholic Charities operates to serve those most in need.

Serving as this year’s campaign chair is a natural fit for Trey, a local attorney. His father, Leon J. Reymond, served as AHCA chair in 2001, and has been an invaluable resource as Trey works to help the agency live up to the legacy of Archbishop Philip Hannan, a stalwart champion of those facing crisis in the Archdiocese.

“My father’s life-long work for the good of society is an inspiration to me. He made his difference through Catholic nonprofits, including Catholic Charities. He is still very interested in the organization and is always eager to offer advice,” Trey said.

Some of Trey’s first memories as a young professional include participating in bus tours that visited the various ministries of Catholic Charities. He has been involved with the boards of several organizations, including the Catholic Community Foundation and the Daughters of Charity (now Ascension DePaul Services). As a board member with LCMC Health, he was instrumental in securing a $15,000 gift for Catholic Charities to use this year for Thanksgiving baskets for families in need. Faith and family play a significant role in how Trey conducts his life. It’s these same qualities and character that Trey hopes to instill in his own children.

“My faith dovetails with my work for Catholic Charities and its mission in that doing for others is a central teaching of Christ and what the Catholic faith is about. It’s important to give back and make sure everyone has an opportunity in life for a hand up when they need it,” Trey said.

Trey is also particularly honored to have the opportunity to serve as chair during the centennial celebration of Catholic Charities.

“Catholic Charities has a great tradition of helping the less fortunate in our community and to play a part in such an organization during a year of celebration is a true honor. This milestone causes us all to reflect on the impact that Catholic Charities, its employees, and its volunteers have had on our city. It’s also a great honor to work with Sr. Marjorie in her final year prior to retirement. She’s been a Christlike force leading Catholic Charities for more than a decade and her accomplishments speak for themselves,” Trey said.

As the centennial celebration for the agency concludes, it’s vital to ensure the legacies of those before and after us continue to be highlighted. They serve as examples of benevolence in a world that can often be filled with challenges.

Visit ccano.org/ahca to make a contribution.

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