The Heart to Heart is a ministry grown at St. Gertrude that serves some of our most vulnerable residents in Edgewater—our senior citizens. Staffed by director Jane Callahan-Moore and Brenda Arreaola, the outreach program’s mission is to help seniors who need minimal assistance to enable them to remain independent in their home. Heart to Heart completes assessments and connects our seniors in need to community services and agencies that can assist them with financial and home care functions. 

In addition, Heart to Heart volunteers offer a limited range of services. Volunteers drive them to doctors’ appointments, run errands, pick up prescriptions, pop in for a friendly visit to see how they are doing, check in with a phone call, or even walk the dog of a sick parishioner. With the help of these dedicated volunteers, we've been able to help hundreds of older persons live quality, dignified, independent lives in their own home. 

Equally as important as tending to basic needs is the human connection that Heart to Heart provides to the lonely, poor, or those in need. Social Services at St. Gertrude is about showing love and care to them through a listening ear, a smile, a kind word, a visit to break up a long day, or a helping hand. It’s about putting faith into action by loving our neighbors and tending to their needs. 

If you are a senior in need or care for an older person that may need Heart to Heart’s services, please call Jane Callahan-Moore or Brenda Arreola at 773.973.5464 or email them at heart2heart@stgertrudechicago.org. Please note our updated email address!

Additionally, Heart to Heart offers a medical lending closet. Items available include walkers, with and without wheels, crutches, knee scooters, wheelchairs, and portable commodes. Please call 773.973.5464 for a list of available items or to schedule an appointment to pick-up or drop-off items. Donations of medical items are also accepted. 

Heart to Heart depends on the generosity of the Edgewater community to continue its work. Every October, multiple fundraisers are held, like Father Mike’s participation in the Chicago Marathon and the annual Heart to Heart play, raising funds for this ministry, but we do need additional financial help. Please consider supporting our work by making a donation to Heart to Heart at the Rectory or online. Donations made with a check should be made payable to St. Gertrude Parish with Heart to Heart written in the memo line.