The Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network [RAIHN] is a not-for-profit, interfaith, culturally-competent organization of faith communities that assists homeless families to achieve sustainable independence by supporting them with tailored services including shelter, food, personalized case management, and a diverse network of caring volunteers.

The network has been successful since its inception in 2004 largely due to the

 amazing efforts of the 1800+ trained volunteers and a total of 40 host and support congregations. There are usually about 90 people per week working behind the scenes to care for the guest families in our program.

At St. Louis Church, this effort is led by parishioner Ann-Marie DeSantis.  She coordinates our support congregation commitment of assisting RAIHN just 4 times over the course of a year. 

This involves setting up beds for the families in the program on a Saturday morning, and serving dinner on a Tuesday night, along with socializing with the guests and playing with the children.  Most people who volunteer to work at a dinner return again and again – it is such an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Ann Marie DeSantis or 383-8686.  For more information on RAIHN, please see their website or read their newsletter.