Governor’s Volunteer Service Award goes to St. Matthew’s Church

Church volunteers more than 30 years at shelter

Group is one of ten to receive the award.

St. Matthew Catholic Church was honored with the Governor’s Award for Volunteer Service during a breakfast celebration on Tuesday, April 14th. This year marks the 37th anniversary of the program that showcases North Carolina’s most dedicated volunteers.

30 years of Service

For over 30 years, St. Matthew has provided meal services – critical to the stability and well-being of our clients.  But their support doesn’t stop there. The Men’s Shelter of Charlotte Ministry team, led by Tom Ellis, exemplifies “best practices” and always finds ways to adapt to changing needs at the shelter.

First Group to support Housing and Employment Resource Center (HERC)

In 2013, St. Matthew became the first congregation to support the Housing & Employment Resource Center (HERC). The team consists of 10-12 volunteers who regularly rotate their service on Wednesday evenings to support our clients with job and housing searches.

Volunteers from the church provide weekly support in the commissary to pass out toiletries and clothing.  The church also has 4 separate meal service groups that provide lunch or dinner on a monthly or quarterly basis.

12,000 items collected through drives for the basics

Aside from volunteering, St. Matthew also has a commitment to providing basic necessities for the men.  All church members are invited to get involved through quarterly drives for socks, underwear and t-shirts. Last year, the group donated more than 12,000 items!

St. Matthew was one of 10 recipients to receive the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award.  It honors the true spirit of volunteerism by recognizing individuals, groups and businesses that make a significant contribution to their community through volunteer service.

Thank you for your service, St. Matthew Catholic Church! #NationalVolunteerWeek

Photo credit: Barrie Terrell/United Way of Central Carolinas

Tags: end homelessness, Men's Shelter of Charlotte, National Volunteer Week, non profit, Volunteer