The Red Door is tucked away between buildings in downtown Pittsburgh, but the iconic Red Door symbolizes a place for support.
The Red Door ministry of Divine Mercy Parish in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania began during the Great Depression era by serving a simple meal. Over the years, the ministry has grown to meet the needs of the Pittsburgh community.
The Red Door currently serves two meals a day, six days a week. “Sunday Supper” is held on Sunday afternoons. The ministry, 100% reliant upon donations, provides a lunch consisting of a snack bag, juice, water, and a sandwich.
The ministry keeps clothing, blankets, tents, and personal hygiene products to freely give to those in need in the surrounding community. Aside from meals and necessary supplies, the Red Door offers showers and laundry services on a regular basis.
A food pantry provides free access to food that people in need can utilize at any time, even asking for specific items if they have them. The ministry accepts donations and has an Amazon wish list for community members to support their mission.
Volunteers are also encouraged to join the work of the ministry by preparing lunches, distributing them, connecting with patrons, and cleaning up after the meal.
The homeless population in Pittsburgh continues to grow. In November, the Red Door and Catholic Charities opened Compassion Corner. Catholic Charities CEO Susan Rausher said being next door to the Red Door “gives us a chance to create relationships of trust with [Red Door participants].”
The corner brings crisis case management, free health care, and mental wellness programs to the homeless community of Pittsburgh.
Along with the day shelter of the Red Door, the ministry also started Gift of Mary, a temporary shelter for women suffering from violence and exploitation. Gift of Mary provides shelter, reliable resources, and a trusted team that offers assistance to women in need.
Through its ministry, the Gift of Mary, and its partnership with Catholic Charities, the Red Door of Divine Mercy Parish continues to serve the most vulnerable and in need in the Pittsburgh community.
