Candid Catholic Convos - 4-27-25

Homelessness in Pennsylvania alone rose 12.2 percent over the last year according to the Annual Homelessness Assessment Report, and on any given day, over 12,000 Pennsylvanians are known to be homeless across the commonwealth. 20-25% of the homeless population across the U.S. also struggle with mental health or substance abuse issues.

This week, we’re shining a light on a powerful new ministry in the Diocese of Harrisburg — one that blends compassion, mental health care, and the Catholic call to serve the most vulnerable among us.

Named after St. Benedict Joseph Labre, the patron saint of the homeless, Catholic Charities new Labre Mental Health clinic offers essential mental health services and a place of dignity for those in our area experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity. I’m honored to welcome program and medical director of the Labre Mental Health Clinic, Dr. Kirsten Tollefson.

Dr. Tollefson shares the inspiration behind this mission, the challenges of launching a clinic rooted in both clinical excellence and Gospel values, and how this work is already making a difference right here in Harrisburg.