Supporting Our Ministry

Pajaro Valley Shelter Services: Investing in Families ˜Ÿ

In Fiscal Year 2025, the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur supported Pajaro Valley Shelter Services (PVSS) with a grant for the staff of its Coordinated Economic Development (CED) Program—investing in the future of families striving for a better life.

Founded in 1983 by Sister Marie Veronica Wagner, SNDdeN with cofounders Sister Susan Olson, SNDdeN and A.V. Coyle (formerly Sister Ann Veronica), PVSS has grown into a lifeline for families across Santa Cruz County, in California, offering safe housing and transformative support services.

At the heart of PVSS is its “Three Pillars of Self-Sufficiency,” guiding families from crisis to lasting independence. The first pillar, Emotional Stability, helps parents and children heal from trauma, build resilience, and gain the confidence to face life’s challenges. Financial Stability, the second pillar, equips adults with job training, professional development, financial literacy, and savings programs—empowering them to achieve economic security and pursue dreams once thought out of reach.

As Sister Susan reflects: “When the shelter began in 1984, we realized that without new skills, the families were likely to repeat the behaviors that led to homelessness. Setting up a savings program and teaching new ‘survival skills’ could help end the cycle of homelessness. The programs today continue this important work.” The third pillar, Housing Stability, ensures that families can thrive long-term.

Through the Hope and Home Tenant Education Program, families learn practical skills, understand their rights and gain the tools to maintain stable, safe homes. By blending education, counseling and hands-on guidance, PVSS doesn’t just provide support, it transforms lives. Families gain the skills, con°dence and resilience to break the cycle of poverty, build a secure future and pass hope on to the next generation.

“Notre Dame is more than a school;
it is a place where you can find emotional support,
financial support and more.”
—Johanna, Nursing Assistant

Notre Dame Education Center: A Bridge to a Better Future

Founded in1997 and sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, the Notre Dame Education Center-Lawrence (NDEC-L) serves as a vital bridge of hope for diverse, underserved adults in the Greater Lawrence, Massachusetts, area. For over two decades, NDEC-L has been committed to transforming lives by offering an inclusive community of learning where students gain essential tools for enhanced professional opportunities and deeper community engagement.

NDEC-L provides high-quality, tuition-free or low-cost education in a welcoming and dignified environment. Core programs include English language (ESOL) classes, preparation for the U.S. Citizenship Exam and career-focused training like the Nursing Assistant Training program. The center’s philosophy is rooted in active engagement, encouraging students to lead their learning through discussion and collaboration rather than relying on memorization or lectures. The grant funding supports existing educational programs, the expansion of citizenship and immigration support services and the continuation of the immigration support specialist position. This comprehensive approach underscores the mission to empower adults to instill the confidence students need to achieve their academic and employment goals, preparing them for success.

This story is also featured in the Winter 2025 edition 
of our  Sowing Goodness magazine.