Sister Nancy's Note: You Open Doors for Families at St. Ann's Center!
All around St. Ann’s Center, it still looks like winter.
Trees are bare. Skies are gray. And for the most part, our Child Care Center students and our resident families are playing together indoors, instead of out on the windy playground.
Yet little signs remind us spring is on the way, bringing new life and possibility. You can see these signs both outside and within our Center.
Just two days ago, St. Ann’s welcomed Kayla,* a new mom-to-be, into our Grace House supportive housing program serving teen mothers and their babies.
Pregnancy can be a scary time, especially when you are still in high school. This is why I am so grateful to you, for providing the nurturing environment where Kayla can find warmth and support during this important season of her life.
Kayla’s journey is off to a good start! As I passed through Grace House yesterday, I even noticed her smiling as she talked with our Residence staff and the other young moms. Thank you, for making her smile possible.
Seeing a client at the very beginning of her journey, reminded me of the St. Ann’s alumna who returned to visit us last summer. Reflecting on her own time as a new mom 28 years ago, she “felt like her life began at St. Ann’s,” she told us.
This is our hope for all women who participate in our programs – that they might find new life and open doors where the future had once seemed uncertain and overwhelming.
Spring and Lent both start with bare trees, gray skies, and cold wind. Yet what happens? New life comes forth, surprising us, offering new hope and direction.
Because of you, many women like Kayla will experience new doors opening in their lives in the months to come. Thank you for your amazing gift and presence to those we serve.
Peace to you at the beginning of this new season,
Sister Nancy Downing, CND
CEO, St. Ann's Center for Children, Youth and Families
*Client’s name changed to maintain privacy.
You're Invited to Hope Blossoms!
Sister Nancy Downing and Event Chair Vince C. Burke, III cordially invite you to the annual Hope Blossoms gala, taking place on May 14 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Join us in celebrating St. Ann's Center for Children, Youth and Families' history and mission!
- Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025
- Time: 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
- Place: Columbia Country Club
Click below for sponsorship opportunities and event tickets! All proceeds will directly support St. Ann's Center's programs.