Libraries/IDS personnel help St. Gregory the Great Parish

St. Gregory the Great Parish, located at Dexter and Fenkell, is right in UDM's backyard, ministering to families, children, seniors, and poor and homeless people.

Sr. Syliva, center, with volunteers at St. Gregory the Great Parish van

Ever since UDM Librarian Sue Homant met Sr. M. Sylvia Grey, SNJM, of St. Gregory's over four years ago, UDM Libraries andn Instruction Design Studio (IDS) employees have supported her ministry by collecting and contributing canned goods, coats, cash, clothing and household items at Christmas time and throughout the year. Over the past summer, Libraries/IDS employees donated $260 cash and a carload of school supplies. When the items were delivered Sept. 6, Sr. Sylvia was appreciative and took time to explain her work at St. Gregory's and throughout metro Detroit.

Over 1,200 individuals monthly, or 40 - 70 households weekly, receive bags of food at the doorstep of St. Gregory's Parish House. Sr. Sylvia said that in her 18 years as service coordinator, she's never had to say, "We don't have enough food," or turn anyone away empty-handed.

She and a handful of volunteers minister not only to St. Gregory's but also to seven other Detroit area churches, food pantries, soup kitchens, senior residences, schools and Headstart programs. Sr. Sylvia has made a little go a long way, putting to use all that she is given. She is grateful for all donations, and the employees of UDM Libraries/IDS are happy to help.

Sally Young, administrative assistant, UDM Libraries/IDS