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To provide for the needs of the aged poor, Jeanne Jugan walked
the roads of France seeking alms. She was recognized by the begging
basket she carried. Knocking on doors, she asked for money, but
also for gifts in kind: food, clothing, wood, wool or whatever
was needed for the home.
Jeanne always thanked her benefactors by praying for them, and
this was an expression of truly heartfelt gratitude. She thanked
God at the same time as thanking her benefactors. “This is
why God always blessed me,” she was to confide many years
later, “because I was always thankful to Providence.”
This tradition of relying on the charity of those in the community
has been maintained by our Congregation. Like Jeanne Jugan, we
consider our benefactors as sharers in our mission. With gratitude
we continue Jeanne's practice of praying for the needs confided
to us by those who help us and encouraging our elderly Residents
to join us in praying for all our friends, volunteers and benefactors.
Today’s “collecting” Little Sisters are often
known by their “begging van.” They go daily to the
markets and places of business seeking food and commodities to
offset operating expenses. They also appeal in Catholic parishes
as a way to build friendships and support for day to day expenses.
With care and medical costs rising and government funds dwindling,
the demand of financial support is great today. We must raise a
significant percentage of annual operating costs. We often live
from donation to donation and rejoice in the generosity and love
that flow in support of our work.
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Financial Contributions | Traditions
of Begging | Gifts
in Kind | Special Events
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