St. Matthias Social Ministry
Director: Deacon John Sands
Our parish has a long tradition of reaching out to the less fortunate. We are blessed with the assistance of over 100 volunteers and the financial support of so many for our parishioners who contribute to the poor boxes as they leave the church. In addition, we are fortunate to have the support of outside benefactors who always seem to be available when we have extraordinary needs.
If you have questions about any of our programs or would like to volunteer, please call Deacon John at (718) 456-9104.
Homeless Outreach
Coordinators: Gail Sands & Charles Dispenzieri
Breakfast Program - Breakfast, consisting of cereal and coffee is served Monday through Friday.
Lunch Program - A hot meal is served to 40-45 homeless and less fortunate Monday through Friday.
Shower Program - The shower is available Monday through Friday and serves about 20 people each week. Soiled clothing is taken to be washed on a regular basis.
Detox - The Homeless Outreach Team from Catholic Charities is available to transport substance abusers to detox centers as needed.
Drop In - Our center is open on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 2:00 to 4:00 to provide a respite for the area homeless. Hot beverages and snacks are served.
Overnight Shelter - We provide a safe haven for some of the Homeless in our area, Monday through Saturday.
Food Pantry
The pantry is open Tuesday and Thursday from 3:00 to 4:00. We distribute over 1,000 packages of food each year. Each person is assessed and food is given based on need. Collections for the pantry are on the third weekend of the month. See the bulletin for items needed that month.
Homebound
Fifteen to Twenty of our homebound parishioners are visited each week, telephone reassurance is provided and transportation every third Sunday to Mass.
Nursing Home Visitation
A team of twelve volunteers visits former parishioners in local Nursing Homes.
Consolation Ministry
A letter is mailed to every parishioner who has lost a loved one with a listing of local bereavement groups.
Entitlement Counseling
Information regarding various City, State and Governmental programs is provided.
Financial Assistance
We provide funding for: Lifeline services for seniors, Homecare, Rent, Utilities, Burial and help for inner city parishes.