The At The Door Ministry began ten years ago as a way to meet the needs of the poor who, quite literally, came to the Margaret Aylward Center, Casa Santa Fe office door in need of help. Formed and developed by the Sisters of the Holy Faith, we now serve the poor by helping them avoid eviction and/or helping find shelter.

The ministry also provides general information of resources in the surrounding area that can also be of assistance. Thanks to the compassionate hearts and financial donations of private donors, Associates of the Sisters of the Holy Faith and our volunteers, this is a way that we follow in Jesus’ footsteps among the poor.

Catholic Charities comes on a monthly basis to the Margaret Aylward Center for our citizenship workshop. Their dedicated staff have been helping our community for more than ten years. They fill out citizenship applications. The citizenship applicants then attend our citizenship preparation classes and ready themselves for their interview.

Our citizenship workshops are usually held on the last Friday of the month.  Some exceptions due apply so please check our monthly calendar to confirm dates and times.  Appointments are necessary.  If interested, please call for an appointment at (562) 695-6621.

This is a free clothing program where we provide free, emergency clothing to individuals and families who are experiencing financial hardship.

We offer free women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing, shoes, accessories, and much more. Gently used blankets, linen, and household items. Visit us or call us during our office hours for more information.

Catholic Charities provides service to people in need, advocates for justice in social structures, and calls the entire church and other people of good will to do the same. This grant will support a convening and on-going collaboration to develop models that encourage healthy housing.

 Founded in 1993 by Pastor Eric Tietze, Heart of Compassion (HOC) Distribution is a 501(c)(3) food bank and social service organization.  HOC works to alleviate hunger, food insecurities and the suffering of those who have fallen on hard times.

		The Department of Public Social Services

Established in 2007, World Harvest Food Bank is a non-profit organization that provides food, basic staples and living essentials to people who are at risk of hunger and to the needy.

NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

The Salvation Army,  meets human need without discrimination.

211 Teams of compassionate, highly trained specialist available 24/7 to help access the best local resources to address any need.

Department of Mental Health

We understand the profound impact that life’s challenges can have on individuals and families. Our counseling services are designed to provide a supportive and empathetic environment where individuals can navigate through difficult times with guidance and understanding. We are committed to helping clients explore their thoughts and feelings, offering a confidential space for self-expression and reflection. Whether facing personal crises, emotional distress, or simply seeking personal growth, our counseling services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Saturdays from 8am – 9:30am

Please call the office for further information (562) 695 – 6621

Our wonderful volunteer teachers have classes twice a week and we have an evening class, too.  We have three different levels of English as a Second Language. The ESL syllabus includes vocabulary, grammar, reading comprehension, and verb usage. Everyday conversation is used in our classes, and we encourage our students to practice their learned skills outside of the classroom.

Ethna Garcia: Wednesdays and Friday
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Sister Gabrielle O’Byrne: Tuesdays and Thursdays
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

We are your go-to resource for addressing food insecurity and nourishing our community. We are committed to providing essential sustenance and support to individuals and families in need. Our dedicated team and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that no one goes hungry.

Our pantry is open to everyone who could benefit from our services. We understand that circumstances can change, and we are here to offer a helping hand during difficult times. In addition to offering a wide range of nutritious food items, we strive to create a welcoming environment where individuals can find encouragement and compassion.

Our calendar below allows you to plan your visit to the pantry and stay informed about upcoming events and distributions.

We encourage you to explore our website further to learn more about our programs, volunteer opportunities, and ways to contribute. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those facing food insecurity. If you have any questions or require additional information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Walk-ins welcomed.  Please bring ID and with current address. No verification of income needed.

At Margaret Aylward Center, we’re passionate about the art of sewing and we’re excited to share our knowledge and skills with you. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to enhance your existing sewing abilities, our sewing classes offer a fun and supportive environment to learn and grow.

Finding Hope and Support for Your Home: Group United in Faith

If your home is saddened by the effects of excessive drinking, we are here to help.

Welcome to our group united in faith, where we understand the challenges and struggles faced by individuals whose loved one’s drink excessively. If you are seeking support, guidance, and a safe space to share your experiences, you’ve come to the right place. Our compassionate community offers two specialized meetings to cater to different needs: Al-Anon and Alateen.

Al-Anon Meeting:

Join us every Thursday (from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.) and Sunday (from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.) for our Al-Anon meeting. This meeting is designed specifically for family and friends of problem drinkers, providing a nurturing environment for sharing, healing, and finding solace among others who can relate to your experiences. You’ll discover a supportive network of individuals who have faced similar challenges and have found strength in their faith.

Alateen Meeting:

We also offer an Alateen meeting during the same time slot, dedicated to teenagers and young adults aged 13 to 18 who have been affected by someone else’s excessive drinking. This meeting provides a space for younger individuals to connect with peers who understand their unique situations and share in the journey of recovery. Together, we can foster growth, resilience, and hope.

Join Our Faith-Focused Family Group:

At our Al-Anon and Alateen meetings, faith plays a crucial role in our healing journey. We believe in the power of faith to guide us through the darkest times, offering strength, understanding, and a renewed sense of purpose. By embracing our faith, we find comfort and inspiration to support our loved ones and ourselves.

Take the First Step:

If you or someone you know is seeking support for dealing with the effects of excessive drinking, we invite you to attend our Al-Anon and Alateen meetings. Together, we can navigate the challenges and find the courage to restore happiness and peace to our homes.

Remember, you are not alone. Reach out and join our community united in faith today.