Our Stories
These are people in your community being helped by programs and services we provide. With the light of Christ, may we continue to ignite hope, build resilience and transform lives; weaving love, whispering grace and building bridges of compassion.
Mark Rold – Employee Spotlight
Becoming a DSP means opening your heart to the most vulnerable people and showing patience to those who need it the most. Mark Rold, a Residential Shift Coordinator for the Chan House says, "Working at CCS has allowed me to build relationships with those I work with...
Bonnie’s Story
Bonnie came to Oregon when she was 16 years old, as a migrant worker. She shares how she recieved help from the Benedictine Sisters in Mt. Angel at a very difficult time in her life. Bonnie never forgot about the Mission's help and at 81 years old, she is happy to...
A Message From Fr. Ralph
Please view this special message from Fr. Ralph Recker of St. Mary Parish in Mt. Angel as we celebrate A Week of Support for Shelter Ministries.
Blanca’s Story
When Blanca came to St. Joseph Shelter’s Transitional Living Community (TLC), she wasn’t living her best life. She wasn’t the mom that she wanted to be for her kids. Through parenting and life skills classes and the supportive community offered at St. Joseph, those...
The Mission Benedict Story
Mission Benedict was founded by the Benedictine Sisters and lifelong volunteer Verna Scharbach in 1988. Since then, it has become a lifeline for community members needing food, clothing, or emergency financial assistance. Mission Benedict Program Coordinator Lei...
Staff Spotlight: Helena Jones
No two days in the life of Human Resources Executive Coordinator Helena Jones are ever the same. "I enjoy being challenged, always learning, and kept on my toes," says Helena. "I often get to see the tangible difference our work in HR makes in our employees' day."...
CCS Volunteers Undaunted by COVID
Even during an unprecedented time of crisis, with widespread health concerns due to COVID, volunteers remain a vital part of CCS and a blessing to those we serve. “CCS volunteers heard the call, rose to the occasion, and astonished us with an amazing number of hours...
Mission Benedict Impact Over the Holidays
One employee who makes a huge impact for those served by Mission Benedict is Lei Schaecher.
Mission Needs
Mission Benedict helps an average of 50-60 families each week. Due to the pandemic, food boxes are now packed in advance, and people needing clothing or household items can make appointments to ensure social distancing is possible. "We saw an increase in new people...
CCS Named Salem-Keizer Public Schools Partner of the Month
Salem-Keizer Public Schools selected Catholic Community Services as their December Community Partner of the Month. Each month, Salem-Keizer Public Schools recognize a partner in the community that has become integral. "The work they do to support our students and...
Phil Westover’s Toy Story
Phil Westover of St. Peter Catholic Church in Newberg has been a hobby woodworker for 50 years, with a forte in crafting wooden toy trucks and tractors. Thank you, Phil, for sharing your talent with us.
Mission Benedict Christmas Food Boxes
St. Mary pastor Fr. Philip Waibel blessed 115 food boxes for distribution for those in need this Christmas. Thank you to the many people who contributed to the boxes and to the Knights of Columbus who assemble the boxes each year.