A heartwarming tradition: Sanctuary Women’s Development Center spreads joy at Christmas lunch

On Dec. 20 more than 40 women gathered for a Christmas luncheon hosted by Sanctuary Women’s Development Center in Norman, a tradition since 2014 that aims to infuse the holiday spirit and offer a haven of love and care for the attendees. 

Sanctuary is a day shelter for women and children experiencing homelessness and every year the staff collaborates with various churches in the area –– Saint Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, Saint Andrew Catholic Church and the Saint Joseph Catholic Church Women’s Group –– to make the event a success.
 
The atmosphere resonated with joy as laughter and fellowship filled the air, providing a reprieve for women who have traversed similar paths of homelessness and hardship.

“We allow clients to just laugh and fellowship with other ladies who are going through or have been on the same path as them,” said Sheila McPherson, director of the Norman sanctuary. “We eat together and play Christmas-themed games to win prizes. Every lady at the event leaves with at least one gift provided by Catholic churches in the community.”

Sanctuary extends its services beyond the festive season. McPherson said the significance of the yearly holiday luncheon offers women a meal without the burden of a survival mindset. 

“A lot of the ladies don’t get an opportunity to have fellowship with family and this event allows them to sit at a table together and share each other’s experiences or Christmas memories,” said McPherson.

The gathering, hosted at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, saw a special performance by The All Saints Catholic School Show Choir, adding a melodious touch to the festivities. Women applauded and sang along, briefly putting aside their difficulties and fully immersing themselves in the present moment.

“This year we were entertained by the children’s choir, who were magnificently talented,” said Jan Sherrill, a sanctuary client. “It warms the heart, also, to be served by members of the church.

“It was a delight, and the food was terrific. To have a prayer before the meal was especially appreciated.  The tables had goodie bags and the presents were wonderful.” 

As the Sanctuary Women’s Development Center in Norman continues its mission, serving around 35-40 women daily, it not only provides essential services such as showers, laundry facilities and resumé assistance but also fosters an environment where women can find solace, hope and healing.

“I started volunteering many years ago to ‘help others,’ but have come to know that it is me who receives the gift,” one volunteer said. “For that, I am thankful to Sanctuary.”

McPherson, reflecting on the impact of the luncheon, said, “We have ladies who are now housed who come back to see their friends. It’s like a reunion. They get to eat together like a traditional family. Their presence serves as proof that there is hope in their situation. They get to share their journey to stabilization.”

Looking ahead, the Sanctuary Women’s Development Center anticipates continued support, with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City hosting the Green Tie Gala on Feb. 17. The proceeds generated play a pivotal role in enabling Catholic Charities to furnish vital necessities such as clothing and hygiene items, as well as nourishment for those facing hunger. Additionally, these funds contribute to delivering essential services that are instrumental in fostering a profound sense of human dignity for those in need.

For assistance with rental or electric deposits through Catholic Charities Norman Women's Sanctuary, individuals can reach out by calling (405) 701-8293 or visiting in person. If there is a need for rent or bill assistance, contact the center at 8 a.m. on Monday mornings at (405) 523-3000. In cases where direct assistance may not be possible, referrals to other agencies are provided. Additionally, women experiencing homelessness can access the facility from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday, where they can avail of amenities such as showers, laundry services, computer access, phone facilities, and assistance from case managers.