I want to take this opportunity to give a big shout-out and thank you to all our wonderful donors out there who make our work possible in the St. Gianna Program (SGP) and, more specifically, a special thank you to those who have donated vehicles for our women and children.
Since my arrival at St. Gianna’s in August of 2025, I have seen firsthand the real difficulties, challenges, and hardships that our women and children face without a vehicle. Many of our women are not only trying to find work and raise their children single-handedly but they also need transportation to get to work, take their children to daycare/school, get groceries, clothes, resources, and healthcare. Not only that, but so often in domestic violence situations, the abuser restricts the woman’s freedom by taking control over the car, the finances, and even small decisions throughout the day, so having a vehicle gives them freedom to live and do the things they need to do.
One of our residents had been walking three hours with her children to daycare and to work. She did not have enough money to pay for an Uber and riding the bus was difficult for her with her three little children, so when she received a good, reliable van from a generous donor, it was life-changing for her and her children! She was so grateful for this gift. We do what we can to help support the women and children with bus passes and rides when we are able to, but it is not possible to keep up with the high demand, so when someone donates a vehicle, it is such a blessing that changes lives.
A resident told one of the Sisters after she received a vehicle from a generous donor, “I am so thankful for everything Catholic Social Services and St. Gianna’s have done for me. You guys have truly changed my life for the better, and I couldn’t be more grateful for everything!” I have seen many times over how this big act of generosity of a vehicle has empowered the women here at St. Gianna’s to have a better quality of life for themselves and their children. It has allowed them to accomplish their goals and the dreams they have for themselves and their families.
If you’re upgrading to a newer vehicle & your current car is still in roadworthy condition, reliable, and safe to drive, please consider donating it to the CSS Vehicle Donation Program! Start your donation journey by clicking here.
