Felician Center Director Sr. Mary Susanne Dziedzic explained, “Staff and volunteers are not as available during this time of pandemic, and worries increase week by week. The Center is open basically one day a week for some kind of activity and/or distribution.”
While COVID-19 shut down businesses, churches, schools and more, the Sisters at the Felician Center in Kingstree, South Carolina, persevered as they donned their gloves and face masks to distribute Easter baskets and gift cards to the families served by the Learning Center.
To meet the increased demand, more groceries, over-the-counter medications and household supplies have been ordered, unpacked, stocked and distributed in ways that protect the volunteers, staff and the neighbors they serve. When they can, the Sisters also support local businesses by purchasing gift cards to the grocery stores, pharmacies and restaurants to augment normal food distributions.
The Sisters are also grateful for the monetary support they have received from Felician Services Inc., Duke Energy, Eastern Carolina Foundation and Sisters of Charity of SC Foundation. After Sr. Johnna conducted interviews to find out which families lost wages due to the COVID-19 virus, a benefactor stepped up and offered $1000 to provide vouchers to assist those families.
The Sisters continue to prove their adaptability as they respond to the ever-changing needs of their neighbors. They ask for your prayers during this challenging time.
The Felician Center is a ministry of the Felician Sisters of North America. Located in Kingstree, South Carolina, the Felician Center serves those who are struggling to meet basic needs through our St. Felix Food Pantry, Learning Center, St. Clare Clothing Closet, Blessed Angela Meals, Eye,Dental, and Prescription Programs, and the Francis Marion University Health Care Program. To learn more, click here to visit their website.
