In downtown Miami, Camillus House has been quietly transforming lives since 196o. Driven by its Catholic values, this nonprotit provides shelter, meals, healthcare, and long-term support services to the homeless. Each day, Camillus House provides more than just a bed and a meal. They serve those with mental health issues, unemployment, and other hardships. People who are ignored are seen and cared for with love. This organization works to restore stability to these people through case management, job training, behavioral health programs, and more. At Camillus House volunteers can live their lives following Catholic values.
Through service, dignity, and hope, ommunity members and staff gather at Camillus House, a place where compassion comes first. As Miami continues to grow in population, organizations like Camillus House become necessary for the community. Its commitment to serving the poor imbues Catholic social teaching, even though Camillus House is not explicitly a Catholic organization, not only helps those in need but helps better the city.This nonprofit inspires others to care for the dignity of every person by including many volunteer opportunities. Camillus House plays a role reminding the people in Miami that there should always be room for mercy, hope, and new beginnings.
“The shelter provides dignity, compassion, and a pathway forward,” said Kent Calero.
Staff members and volunteers emphasize that their mission is more than just emergency services.
“Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and is worthy of compassion,” a staff member explained.
Camillus house gives individuals a second chance when they feel like they have nothing left. The organization offers counseling substance-abuse treatment, mental health programs, culinary arts, construction trade basics, and so much more, giving the residents the tools that they need to break the cycle of homelessness and empowering them to changes their lives.
Throughout these past few years, Camillus House has strengthened its role through partnerships and outreach efforts. For example, they collaborated with the Miami Downtown Development Authority by supporting a team of formerly homeless people working on improving the streets, managing clean-ups, and giving participants work experience, and much more. These events that took place further show the impact Camillus House has on Miami and it’s citizens.
“It’s an amazing place to be able to give back. The establishment is clean secure and it provides a lot of assistance to the homeless and less fortunate,” said Ferdinand Diaz Rodriguez.
