Quantum Foundation grantee St. Ann Place in West Palm Beach is feeling the immediate effects of the downturn in the economy and upturn in unemployment. Those who run the daily outreach say they are seeing more need than ever before in their nearly ten year history.In addition, those who are lining up for help are some who have never had to ask for it before . “In the past, we see neighborhood individuals who are in need, but now we are seeing parents and their children who never expected to be in this situation without shelter or food, but who are a growing trend of residents from all over the county with nowhere else to turn”, says Sister Katie Frank, Program Director. Everyday the small staff and volunteers serve breakfast to those waiting outside the door, they then open up for individuals to take showers, do laundry or obtain clean clothes from the donation pantry. The $120 thousand dollar Quantum grant allows them to expand health care services in many areas including instituting a variety of preventive health measures; helping clients obtain healthcare benefits; assisting them side-by-side in arranging and following through with medical, dental, and mental health treatment.It also helps in providing transportation; and using cell phones to assure communication so that opportunities and appointments will not be missed. Sister Katie and others work closely to help those who qualify sign up for Palm Beach County Health Care District insurance benefits. The Palm Beach County Health Department visits several times a week and offers basic health care and screenings. Sister Katie says she often takes clients to doctor and hospital visits to make sure they are getting the follow-up care they so desperately need. “Without your health, it is difficult to get a job and get back on your feet again,”Sister Katie shares.

There is a need for donations of good, clean clothing, eyeglasses, bug spray and volunteer time to help pass out food and supplies.If you can donate or volunteer please log onto the website at stannplace.org.