Holy Family Outreach Center

In the summer of 2022, Holy Family Catholic Community opened the Holy Family Outreach Center in the former rectory of St. Mary’s Church to care for the influx of refugees arriving in the Fond du Lac community.

The refugees have fled dangerous and deadly persecution they endured in their home countries which put them at risk of being victims of serious human rights violations. Some not only faced the risk, but had their rights violated. With few choices to protect their lives and without a government to protect them from danger, they bravely decided to make the difficult journey to the United States and legally seek safety and citizenship here, as refugees have the right to international protection.

“It was our privilege to be able to use our rectory in this way and help care for the refugees. The book of Exodus states, ‘do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.’ As Americans and disciples of Jesus, we descended from immigrants. Just as our ancestors left their native land seeking a new life, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph had to flee their homeland to escape persecution. It is only right that we help others who are doing the same,” Holy Family Pastor,  Very Rev. Ryan Pruess said.

Refugees, both individuals and families, stay at the Outreach Center as they seek to build their lives anew in the community. Through the center, immigrants are connected with resources in our community, including Fond du Lac Literacy Services, St. Vincent de Paul, SSM Health at St. Agnes Hospital, Moraine Park Technical College, St. Katharine Drexel Shelter, private English tutors, and the Solutions Center – which helped to fund renovations at the center. 

If you are in need of shelter or would like to make a donation, please contact Director of Human Concerns Erin Cobb at the Parish Office at (920) 921-0580 ext. 301.