Outreach Commission

Chairperson - Dan Sall

Outreach Commission is the umbrella for all parish outreach, whether it be collections, service projects or donations. Through the examples and writings of our patron saints, the various ministries that are part of the Outreach Commission provide parish members an opportunity to fulfill their Christian obligation to minister to the physical, spiritual and emotional needs of all. We direct most of our efforts in helping those in need in Johnson County and the Center Grove area, but also assist those in our regional, national and international communities. Our Commission's efforts are divided into multiple ministries:

Food Pantry

Chairperson - Tammy Murray

The Food Pantry Ministry operates a Food Pantry on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month to offer an alternative solution to Johnson Country families unable to provide regular, healthy meals to their families. One of the goals of the Outreach Commission is to reach outside our parish community and assist all our neighbors who struggle. Catholics and non-Catholics alike are welcome to visit the food pantry during operating hours. Saints Francis & Clare parishioners donate food throughout the month to help stock the Food Pantry shelves. The Food Pantry will initially offer non-perishable foods but the Outreach Commission will monitor the needs of the community to determine the ultimate direction of this ministry.

Emergency Outreach

Chairperson - Judi Seel

The Emergency Assistance Ministry responds to calls received, typically on our Emergency Helpline, for assistance with basic needs or other emergent needs, including rent, utilities and food. We generally limit our assistance to those in the Center Grove area. We also partner with other community organizations to assess the need and provide appropriate assistance, when possible, with not only the short term financial need, but also the long term needs that will help people get back on their feet. Volunteers rotate monitoring the Emergency Helpline throughout the year.

Mission Outreach

Chairperson - Tammy Murray

The Mission Ministry coordinates the yearly parish mission trip to Kentucky and helps to fund the expenses of the materials needed for the various projects, which range from general home repairs to building new roofs. The Mission Ministry also coordinates local mission projects. In the past, those projects have included working on the homes of flood victims, assisting with a Habitat for Humanity build, and putting together parish teams to work with Angels of the Heart and Rebuilding Together - Indianapolis.

Planned Assistance

Chairperson - Jerry Dean

The Planned Assistance Ministry coordinates all collections and many of the service projects that are planned by our parish throughout the year to help those in need. This includes collections of food, blankets, clothing, toys and other items. Some of the most visible projects include a collection and distribution of food for Thanksgiving Meal, a collection and service project for the Catholic Charities Christmas Store, a collections and service project for Fast Track, and assistance with the Lord's Pantry.