John Carroll’s Labre Project recognized Homelessness Awareness Week through a series of events from Nov. 17 through Nov. 21. Each event promotes service and community within the Carroll community but also within the local Cleveland community.
Let’s take a step back for those who are unfamiliar with the Labre Project. Every Friday night, students head into the city of Cleveland with food to provide aid and build connections with the local community.
The event is named after Saint Benedict Joseph Labre, patron saint of homeless people. A disciple of God, he felt called to live a life of poverty and lived his life as a pilgrim. Dressed in the rags of a beggar, Labre was shunned from religious society during his lifetime. He was later canonized for his consistent devotion to God.
Labre is a night rooted in prayer, community and reflection. JCU students can engage with their community in a meaningful way. This project has continued to grow on campus since its inception in 2004.
“It made me think about ways I could be more intentional with my actions, to not ignore the people that really need the support and the small simple things I can do right now to make a difference in others’ lives,” said Sophia Bell ’29. Addyson Clough ’29 added, “It was a really rewarding experience, it made me take a step back and realize how much I should appreciate the things I do have. I’m going to try to donate once a week to Labre!”
“Going on Labre widened my eyes and heart more than I could have imagined. Seeing how grateful people were to simply have a conversation with us made me realize how important communication with one another is. Being able to connect and make a change in our world is something that I am so happy to be a part of,” said Elena Rizzo ’29.
Leah Wallens ’29 also added, “It was very eye-opening and definitely something I want to continue to go to. I thought it was so nice how every single person we met was treated as our equals and everyone helping really went out of their way to make sure each person we met had everything that they needed.”
Rebecca Cigany ’27 expressed how Homelessness Awareness Week is a great time to come together as a community that is rooted in social action. Cigany said, “I have grown up in Cleveland my whole life and I never realized how so many people are unsheltered in my area. Labre has opened my eyes to how important it is to serve and love others. I have learned about how one simple conversation or the giving of a meal or jacket could change someone’s life.”
Monday started with a bang. The Jardine Room hosted an interactive evening with NEOCH (Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless), featuring a panel of speakers, a Q&A portion and snacks.
The week is far from over. There is still time to get involved and contribute to the community.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED:
On Nov. 19, two events are going on. Bring winter essentials (scarves, socks, gloves, etc.) to Tower Time in exchange for soup! Donations will be given to those experiencing homelessness at the Friday night outreach. Monetary donations will also be accepted for the Labre team to buy winter clothing. Later that night, Labre is hosting mass at 9:30 p.m. in the St. Francis Chapel with dessert afterwards.
On Nov. 20, students can come to the O’Dea Room from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to make tie blankets. A hot chocolate bar will be provided.
On Nov. 21, Labre will be taking three vans to Cleveland. From 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., students can serve the community by coming to Labre and Students can sign up by clicking this link.
On Nov. 23, students and community members join Labre in St. Francis Chapel at 9:00 pm to gather and reflect on the week of service.
Cigany said that she lives her life by the motto Mother Teresa always said, “do small things with great love.” Transformative action doesn’t have to be a large gesture, but can be as simple as a compliment.
This is the message that will be carried throughout all Labre Project programming this week. Attending these events are an incredible opportunity to become educated about homelessness in the United States, as well as in our own community.