Sr. Paulanne, The Heart of
the OLPH Sharing Program

In 1971, OLPH responded when a tragic fire struck a housing complex in west Glenview, leaving many families homeless. Parishioners donated over $30,000 in one weekend and Sr. Paulanne’s Needy Family Fund was born.

OLPH parishioners similarly responded to 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina.

Imagine Sr. Paulanne’s frustration at edible day-old baked goods being thrown away for fear of lawsuits over spoiled food. She prevailed upon a Parish attorney to work with state legislators to enact change. The Day Old Bread Act was passed and now OLPH has 40 volunteers who regularly pick-up day old bread from area merchants and distribute to those in need. This Act benefits the needy throughout Illinois.

HISTORY of our program

OLPH Sharing Ministry, Established 1981

The Sharing Committee recently celebrated 26 years as a Parish ministry. We were launched when small groups assembled in McDonnell Hall to discuss possible action responses at the close of a Renew series.

One such group decided to organize a food drive to benefit two sharing parishes that had recently been assigned to Our Lady of Perpetual Help by the archdiocese. Sr. Paulanne was in this group and quickly designated Rich the chair of the new sharing committee. He serves in this capacity to this day.

Where could we collect and store the food from the inaugural drive? The Annex, an old red, frame building, sat on the site of what is now the Lafayette building. It had no heat, no working plumbing, broken windows, and mice – the perfect clearinghouse for non-perishable food, and later, clothing, household goods, and shoeboxes for the homeless. This space served for 14 years, with mild necessary repairs being made along the way. (At one point, the entire staircase broke away from the building.) Our volunteers were ever so happy when this structure was replaced and we were graced with a large room that could better meet the growing needs of our organization and the generous spirit of the Parish.

The Sharing Ministry works to provide assistance to those who materially have so little. But we also enjoy opportunities to share socially, spiritually, and culturally. Learn more about who we serve and our on-going programs.

OLPH parishioners are quick to mount support for those in need. This is truly a Parish of generous heart. During the past 26 years the Parish has donated and delivered well over 900,000 non-perishable food items. God bless you for your compassion. The Joy in Living Is the Joy in Giving!