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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