Bishop Tobin expands Saint Gabriel’s Call programs for pregnant, new mothers 

Most Rev. Thomas J. Tobin, Bishop of Providence, announced a commitment to double the assistance provided to pregnant and new mothers as well as their children through the Saint Gabriel’s Call ministry.

“Increased economic stress brought on by the higher cost of basic groceries, supply-chain issues, rising fuel prices, and the unavailability of needed baby items like infant formula places additional undue stress on new, struggling families. It’s a critical time for the diocese to redouble our longstanding efforts to support mothers and children,” said James Jahnz, Secretary for Catholic Ministries and Social Services. 

The commitment increases annual funding for assistance to $50,000 for the ministry of the Diocese of Providence Office of Life and Family which provides financial, material, social-emotional, and other wide-ranging supports to mothers and their children. Financial and material supports include supplying any need ranging from cribs, car seats, and furniture to baby clothes and linens, diapers, formula, toys, household goods, toiletries, and gift cards. Mothers who come to the program also receive one-on-one support as well as referrals to meet any other needs through a case worker. 

Saint Gabriel’s Call provides services from three locations in Providence as well as Newport, Wakefield, Warren, West Warwick, and Woonsocket. 

“Low-income mothers are disproportionately affected during these economic and supply chain crises due to so many factors including transportation, access, limitations of aid programs, and retail shortages. Bishop Tobin’s assistance aims to help these young families bridge the gap between their means and existing programs,” added Jahnz. 

Mothers with need in Rhode Island can call 401-421-7833, extension 225 or email  [email protected]. All services are free and confidential.  

“Saint Gabriel’s Call is a life-affirming ministry that offers material, emotional and spiritual help. We take mothers and children by the hand and walk them over the threshold of desperation to one of hope and joy,” said Lisa Cooley, Coordinator of the Office of Life and Family. 

Those who wish to contribute to this program can mail a check to Catholic Social Services (Attn: Gabriel’s Call), 1 Cathedral Square, Providence, RI 02903.