Church's Homeless Shelter Needs Help During Pandemic

GREENPORT, NY — After a year like no other, the community is opening its arms to help its vulnerable homeless population.

A GoFundMe, "John's Place Homeless Shelter at St. Agnes," was organized by Father Piotr Narkiewicz.

John's Place is an emergency winter homeless shelter located in the parish hall of St. Agnes Church on Front Street.

"Winter is always a challenge for homeless people. This year, because of COVID-19, it is proving to be even harder," he said. "Our guests arrive on Tuesday evenings for a hot meal, shower, clothes, a safe place to sleep, breakfast, and a bag lunch as they leave."

The pandemic has sparked "unprecedented need," so the parish of St. Agnes has opened its doors to the Maureen's Haven Homeless Outreach program. Maureen's Haven, which operates under the auspices of Peconic Community Council in Riverhead, utilizes the facility three nights a week to provide the homeless with a warm dinner, safe place to sleep, breakfast and a to-go lunch.

But in recent weeks, a new roof on the parish hall was needed right before a snowstorm.

"We are asking for your help so we can continue to pay our current bills for the heat, water, electricity and gas we need to help the poor," Narkiewicz wrote. "Every dollar counts. We are very grateful for everything you do to help us."

The community stepped up, but the need is still great, Narkiewicz said.

"Thank you for your generosity. Because of you, we continue our service," he said.

The roof was fixed, bathroom repairs were made, and new sheets, pillowcases, and sleeping bags were purchased, he said. "All this because of you. If you decide to continue to help us, please share this information with your friends," Narkiewicz said.

To donate to help the homeless, click here.

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner.