Detroit Archbishop Edward J. Weisenburger toured La Casa Amiga in Pontiac on July 13, getting a firsthand look at the Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan ministry that serves the area's predominantly Hispanic and immigrant community. He was joined by Fr. David Buersmeyer, ombudsman for the Archdiocese of Detroit and chaplain to Strangers No Longer, and was guided through the facility by La Casa Amiga Director Luz Acosta.

A Ministry of Practical Mercy

La Casa Amiga — "Friend's House" — offers a food pantry, support for pregnant women and new mothers through Project Hope, financial and legal education, adult education, and workforce development. The center's food pantry alone serves as many as 180 families on its busiest day each month. Following the tour, Archbishop Weisenburger shared a meal with staff and heard directly from them about the families they serve.

"Wow, I was incredibly impressed with the ministry and work at La Casa Amiga in Pontiac," Archbishop Weisenburger said. "It's the kind of place that makes all of us so proud to be Catholic!"

Grateful for the Visit

Acosta said the visit was a meaningful moment of encouragement for her team. "It was a blessing having him here," she said. "The staff were really excited to share their clients' stories and offer support or advice about how they can make their clients' lives better."

Read the full story from Detroit Catholic here.

To learn more about La Casa Amiga and the full range of services offered by Catholic Charities of Southeast Michigan, visit ccsem.org/la-casa-amiga.