Program Highlight: Youth House

October 17, 2023

Mike creates his own future with help from Catholic Charities Youth House.

Mike moved to Minnesota from across the country after meeting who he thought was the love of his life online. Their relationship soon turned toxic and he turned to a friend for a place to stay. Unfortunately, he was not able to stay with his friend long and ended up sleeping on the floor of an overcrowded shelter where he experienced many challenges.


Mike found it difficult to maintain employment because his work shifts would end after the shelter’s curfew, leaving him with nowhere to go. He was forced to haul all his belongings with him each day for fear that they would get stolen. Mike’s wallet and his vital documents had already been stolen soon after he came to the shelter.


During this time, Mike met with the Catholic Charites Street Outreach Worker who provided him with community resource information, including the Catholic Charities Youth House. After a tour and meeting with the staff, Mike shared that he felt safe and thought he could make positive changes in his life.


While at the Youth House, staff helped Mike obtain medical insurance, food assistance and his vital documents so he could gain new employment. Before long, he was working full-time and had created a savings plan. Mike was feeling inspired and developed a plan for his future. With staff assistance, Mike completed the financial aid and admission applications to St. Cloud State University. He was accepted into the honor’s program where he will be studying graphic design.


Just as Mike’s life was getting brighter, tragedy struck. He received a phone call late one night in July and was told his sister had died unexpectedly after battling kidney disease. Catholic Charities staff assisted with travel plans so he could attend the funeral. Although his family begged him to not come back to Minnesota, he knew he needed to return for his chance at a better life.


Upon his return, staff assisted him in the final steps of becoming a full-time college student. On August 17th, 2023, the Youth House staff moved Mike into the dorms and made sure he had the items he needed to start this new chapter of his life. When saying ‘farewell’ to the Youth House staff, Mike asked if he could come back and visit. The staff told him he would always be welcome and that they would always be there to support him.


Learn more about this program at https://www.ccstcloud.org/services/housing/homeless-youth#youthhouse.

Our Recent News

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By Brittany Hoversten • April 28, 2026
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud is celebrating a meaningful boost to its Senior Nutrition efforts thanks to a generous $57,856.54 donation from the CentraCare Foundation. This contribution will support the full spectrum of Catholic Charities Senior Nutrition services — including Meals on Wheels, senior dining, and other nutrition initiatives that help older adults access healthy, reliable meals across central Minnesota. On Thursday, April 23, Catholic Charities President & CEO Aaron Fisk, Food Access Director Stacy Lund, and Senior Nutrition Manager Shannon Nolan gathered to accept the check from CentraCare Foundation. The gift represents a powerful investment in the health, independence, and dignity of seniors throughout the region. “We are grateful to the CentraCare Foundation for this generous donation. This support will have a significant and immediate impact on the older adults we serve,” said Stacy Lund, Food Access Director. “With this contribution, we can strengthen access to nutritious, consistent meals for seniors who face food insecurity. Nutritious food is a critical component of healthy aging, and your support helps us improve meal quality, expand service capacity, and maintain reliable nutrition assistance for seniors striving to remain healthy, independent, and safely in their homes.” Catholic Charities Senior Nutrition programs — including Meals on Wheels — provide nutritious meals, wellness checks, and social connection to at‑risk, homebound, ill, and vulnerable adults age 60 and older. For many seniors, especially those living alone or managing chronic health conditions, these daily visits and meal services are a lifeline. CentraCare Foundation’s mission centers on improving community health and well‑being. Their investment in Catholic Charities Senior Nutrition reflects a shared commitment to ensuring older adults have access to the nutrition and support they need to remain healthy and independent at home. This donation will help Catholic Charities continue expanding its reach, improving meal quality, and ensuring that no senior in need goes without a nutritious meal. To learn more about Catholic Charities Senior Nutrition programs or to inquire about services for yourself or a loved one, visit ccstcloud.org .

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