HISTORY
The Alexian Brothers tradition began more than 800 years ago in Europe when small groups of laymen banded together to live a Christian life and care for the poor, the sick, and the helpless. Like St. Alexius, whose name they bear, they have worked on the fringes of society, easing the pain of those in greatest need. In 1347, when the Black Death struck Europe, they were there to care for its victims and give the dead a Christian burial. After weathering many trials in Europe, they expanded to America in 1866 where they continued their mission of caring for societies less fortunate and ill in the hospitals they built. The present day Alexian Brothers are located throughout Europe, England, the United States, and the Philippines.
Hospitality at Home is the flagship program of St. Alexius Outreach Ministries, the newest ministry of the Alexian Brothers launched in 2017. Creating connection for lonely, isolated older adults is at the heart of what we do. We are sustained by our dedicated volunteers, committed support staff, and the presence and service of the Alexian Brothers. We strive to carry on the Alexian Brothers' defining values of compassion, dignity of the person, care of the poor, holism, and partnership.
To ensure the ongoing success of the Senior Shopping Shuttle, which started in 2012 under the former Alexian Brothers' Senior Neighbors program, St. Alexius Outreach Ministries adopted the program in 2018. The Shopping Shuttle provided weekly transportation to grocery stores for seniors and those with disabilities who live in areas identified as food deserts until it was suspended in 2020 due to COVID-19. Now the shuttle is utilized to offer food delivery for individuals and families in crisis.
In 2020, the COVID-19 crisis accelerated the need for a food and supply pantry, which had been a dream since the beginning. In March of 2020, More Than Food was started, which offers food, household, and personal supplies to older adults in crisis.
Read more about the Alexian Brothers by clicking here.