Teen Volunteers Distribute Hygiene Kits as Part of Homeless Outreach in College Point, Queens

Maribel Perez, a 16-year-old junior at The Mary Louis Academy, finds inspiration in the life and work of St. Teresa of Calcutta, known as Mother Teresa. Her admiration for the saint’s dedication to serving the poor and destitute has led her to actively participate in a monthly homeless outreach initiative in College Point, Queens. Each first Saturday of the month, Maribel joins Sister Ruth Lautt and volunteers from St. Fidelis Church’s Street Outreach Ministry on 14th Avenue, near College Point Boulevard, to distribute essential items such as soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, and toothpaste in small bags. This initiative, called “Hope in a Bag,” aligns with Maribel’s personal faith and commitment to following Jesus’ example of compassion and service.

Maribel, a scout with Troop 153 at St. Anastasia Church in Douglaston, is working toward becoming an Eagle Scout, the highest honor in scouting. Her community service project includes participating in the outreach efforts organized by Sister Ruth. She learned about the ministry through her grandmother and decided to contribute by showing up every first Saturday to help. Her involvement reflects a growing awareness of the needs of the homeless and a desire to live out her faith through action.

In addition to her hands-on service, Maribel took initiative by seeking speaking opportunities at local churches, including her own, Blessed Sacrament in Bayside. She encouraged parishioners to donate supplies, which she then used to purchase toiletries. With the help of fellow scouts, she filled the bags and brought them to the outreach distribution point. This effort demonstrates her leadership and commitment to raising awareness about the ministry’s mission.

Sister Ruth, who described Maribel as “an exceptional young woman,” noted that the teen had purchased three months’ worth of hygienic products. She also highlighted Maribel’s courage in addressing large groups of people in churches to talk about the “Hope in a Bag” project. Public speaking is often a significant fear, yet Maribel’s willingness to share her story and the ministry’s purpose reflects her deep conviction and faith.

The Street Outreach Ministry at St. Fidelis Church has been providing food and clothing to individuals in need at the same location in College Point once a month since November. This consistent effort underscores the importance of community support and the role of local churches in addressing homelessness. According to the Coalition for the Homeless, as of March 2026, approximately 350,000 people in New York City were experiencing homelessness, highlighting the urgent need for such initiatives.

The work of Maribel and Sister Ruth aligns with the biblical call to care for the vulnerable, as seen in Proverbs 31:8-9, which urges believers to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Their efforts reflect a commitment to neighbor-love and mercy, embodying the spirit of service that Christ modeled. As they continue their outreach, they offer a tangible expression of hope and compassion to those in need.

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