“Home for the Holidays” was the theme of a raffle party held Dec. 15 at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral in Greensburg — a fitting title for a project that fights homelessness in central Westmoreland County.
The Bethlehem Project began in 1998 in response to homeless and near-homeless people requesting help from the cathedral for rent, utilities and emergency lodging. Available support includes:
• Funds for emergency shelter or first month’s rent in collaboration with government and social service agencies.
• Providing needed items to local shelters.
• Making referrals to other social service agencies.
• Following up with those served to further the goal of permanent housing.
• Community education on laws relating to housing, including landlords’ and tenants’ rights and responsibilities.
• Advocating for change in current housing policies that put the poor at greater risk for homelessness.
While enjoying treats from a festive cookie table, raffle attendees took their chances on a variety of baskets and a sports and leisure-themed ticket.
Event co-chairs were Suzanne English and Quentin Martin, assisted by Msgr. Raymond Riffle, Rebecca Zuzik, Katie Zuzik, Sally Loughran and Rosanne Sandolfini.
