“I Trust You,” she said softly as she cradled her new baby. 

Catholic Social Services’ (CSS) Care-a-Van regularly journeys beyond the city’s core to Edmonton’s most frequented gathering spots for those experiencing homelessness. Their mission is to bring essential items like food, water, and other necessities to the city’s most vulnerable residents. But beyond just meeting basic needs, the Care-a-Van team understands the profound importance of building a sense of connection. Each visit is an opportunity to share kindness and compassion, leaving behind not just supplies but also a heartfelt invitation to reach out for support when needed. 

Shelley, a young, pregnant, and unhoused woman, faced tremendous challenges. From the moment they met her, the Care-a-Van team sought her out regularly, monitoring her health, offering help, and connecting her with resources whenever needed.

Months later, a call came in from Shelley, urgently requesting the Care-a-Van team to help her get to the hospital. She was on the street and going into labour! Immediately, the team sprang into action, transporting the mom-to-be to the hospital where she soon welcomed a beautiful baby boy into the world. While in the hospital, Shelley continued to keep the Care-a-Van team updated through text, even inviting them to visit and meet her new baby.

During their visit with Shelley and her newborn son, the team asked why she turned to them on such a critical day. 

Shelley poignantly responded, “Because I trust you.” 

Trust is a cornerstone of CSS, and our teams are dedicated to earning and keeping it. Shelley’s faith in the Care-a-Van team during her most vulnerable moments testifies to the profound connections we aim to forge with those we serve each and every day. She was so grateful for the support from the Care-a-Van team and the collaboration with other community organizations. 

Thank you for supporting CSS so we could be there for Shelley. Through your generosity, you are providing someone with an opportunity to change their life for the better. 

April 15, 2025 is CSS Giving Hope Tuesday and The T.R. (Terry) Mahon Foundation will match each donation dollar-for-dollar, up to a cumulative maximum of $125,000. Every donation holds the power to create even greater change! 

As a cherished contributor to our Sign of Hope campaign, we would be deeply grateful for your support at this time. Your kindness means the world to us and those we serve. 

We firmly believe that, together, we can spread hope and foster a brighter future for everyone in our community. 

Thank you for your unwavering support and compassion.

Your generosity, their opportunity! Make a difference today!