Program Highlight: Youth House

October 17, 2023

Mike creates his own future with help from Catholic Charities Youth House.

Mike moved to Minnesota from across the country after meeting who he thought was the love of his life online. Their relationship soon turned toxic and he turned to a friend for a place to stay. Unfortunately, he was not able to stay with his friend long and ended up sleeping on the floor of an overcrowded shelter where he experienced many challenges.


Mike found it difficult to maintain employment because his work shifts would end after the shelter’s curfew, leaving him with nowhere to go. He was forced to haul all his belongings with him each day for fear that they would get stolen. Mike’s wallet and his vital documents had already been stolen soon after he came to the shelter.


During this time, Mike met with the Catholic Charites Street Outreach Worker who provided him with community resource information, including the Catholic Charities Youth House. After a tour and meeting with the staff, Mike shared that he felt safe and thought he could make positive changes in his life.


While at the Youth House, staff helped Mike obtain medical insurance, food assistance and his vital documents so he could gain new employment. Before long, he was working full-time and had created a savings plan. Mike was feeling inspired and developed a plan for his future. With staff assistance, Mike completed the financial aid and admission applications to St. Cloud State University. He was accepted into the honor’s program where he will be studying graphic design.


Just as Mike’s life was getting brighter, tragedy struck. He received a phone call late one night in July and was told his sister had died unexpectedly after battling kidney disease. Catholic Charities staff assisted with travel plans so he could attend the funeral. Although his family begged him to not come back to Minnesota, he knew he needed to return for his chance at a better life.


Upon his return, staff assisted him in the final steps of becoming a full-time college student. On August 17th, 2023, the Youth House staff moved Mike into the dorms and made sure he had the items he needed to start this new chapter of his life. When saying ‘farewell’ to the Youth House staff, Mike asked if he could come back and visit. The staff told him he would always be welcome and that they would always be there to support him.


Learn more about this program at https://www.ccstcloud.org/services/housing/homeless-youth#youthhouse.

Our Recent News

April 23, 2025
A Journey of Hope and Resilience
By Brittany Hoversten April 14, 2025
At Catholic Charities Emergency Services, we see countless acts of kindness every day, but a recent donation from a remarkable young man left a special mark on our hearts. On a chilly Friday afternoon, Bryce, a 17-year-old student at Albany High School, donated an impressive 860 pounds of squash. This generous gift highlights the power of community support, proving that even in challenging times, there is always hope. Bryce has grown his own pumpkins, squash, and gourds under the name Bryce Pumpkin’s, which has become known for fresh, locally grown produce. His efforts extend beyond growing, as he sells his harvest at farmers markets and even had a booth at the Made in Minnesota Expo in November, supporting local businesses and sustainable farming. What makes his story even more inspiring is how Bryce uses his success to give back. His donation will directly help families in need through our food shelf, which serves St. Cloud and surrounding areas. Bryce’s squash donation will be a vital part of our monthly food distribution, helping to provide nutritious meals to hundreds of families in our community. His gesture demonstrates not only a heart full of compassion but also the interconnectedness of local farmers, businesses, and families. When young people like Bryce step up, it’s a reminder that the future is well cared for. Bryce’s story proves that even small acts of kindness can grow into something truly transformative. Through donations like Bryce’s, we are able to provide food to those who need it most, including seniors on fixed incomes and single parents working multiple jobs. The connection between local farmers and organizations like Catholic Charities sustains our community and fosters hope for those struggling. Looking ahead to the upcoming growing season, we’re excited to see what other generous community members, like Bryce, will share. His efforts remind us that every small contribution adds up to something much bigger, and it’s not just about the food—we’re also strengthening our community and inspiring hope for all.
March 28, 2025
PACK THE PORCHES FOOD AND FUND DRIVE RECEIVED OVER 6,000 POUNDS OF FOOD AND MORE THAN $21,000