Students, faculty and staff at St. Catharine Academy followed the legacy of Catherine McAuley and the “walking sisters” as they participated in the Midnight Run program. Midnight Run is a consortium of over 200 schools, churches and civic organizations bonded together by the desire to help those who are vulnerable on the streets of New York City. Founded in the 1980’s, in response to the growing homelessness crisis, Midnight Run’s mission is to create common ground between the housed and homeless.
Sophomore Elisabe F-G. said working with so many members of the SCA community to help others was one of the most rewarding parts of the program. Middle school students made sandwiches and high schoolers gathered essentials before some 17 people went on the Midnight Run.
“During our ethics class we packed clothes and organized them by size in different bags,” Aalliyah D. a sophomore explained. “It was eye opening to see how the housing insecure] live. It was nice to give a helping hand.”
The group brought essential items, including food and clothing, to men and women who struggle to find shelter each night. Most importantly, the group engaged in conversation and fellowship with those they met. Students are already planning to make another Midnight Run. This experiential learning opportunity enables the SCA community to recognize the importance of living out the mission of an SCA education by performing works of mercy.