St. Josephine Bakhita Women’s Shelter


Shelter Hospitality Volunteer

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the St. Josephine Bakhita Women's Shelter! We are grateful for your commitment to supporting our community's most vulnerable members.

About the Shelter: The St. Josephine Bakhita Women's Shelter provides safe, low-barrier housing and essential services to women experiencing homelessness in the DC area. Our mission is to offer dignity, respect, and support to every individual who walks through our doors.

Volunteer Role: As a Shelter Hospitality Volunteer, you will play a vital role in creating a welcoming environment for our clients. Your responsibilities may include greeting clients as they enter the shelter, assisting with meal service, distributing blankets and linens, and supporting staff with various hospitality tasks and fellowship activities during evening hours.

What to Expect:

  • Volunteer shifts typically occur during evening hours
  • You'll work alongside experienced staff and volunteers
  • Training and orientation will be provided on-site
  • Dress comfortably and appropriately for indoor work
  • Bring a positive attitude and willingness to serve

Important Notes:

  • Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled shift
  • Check-in will be at the main entrance
  • Personal belongings should be kept to a minimum
  • Follow all shelter policies and staff guidance

You will receive additional details including your specific shift time, location information, and any special instructions via email as your volunteer date approaches.

If you have any questions before your volunteer shift, please don't hesitate to reach out to Tess Spesia, teresa.spesia@cc-dc.org

Thank you for your service and dedication to helping those in need.

Catholic Charities Volunteer Services

Schedule Summary

The next 10 shifts (out of 25 total shifts) for this activity are as follows


Date Start Time End Time
Thursday, December 11, 2025 7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Thursday, December 18, 2025 7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Thursday, December 25, 2025 7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Thursday, January 01, 2026 7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Thursday, January 08, 2026 7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Thursday, January 15, 2026 7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Thursday, January 22, 2026 7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Thursday, January 29, 2026 7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Thursday, February 05, 2026 7:00 PM 9:00 PM
Thursday, February 12, 2026 7:00 PM 9:00 PM

St. Josephine Bakhita Women's Shelter Program Description

St. Josephine Bakhita Shelter for Women is a low-barrier shelter for single adult women over the age of 18.  Each night, St. Josephine Bakhita Shelter provides up to 24 women with a cot or a bed with blankets and sheets. An evening meal is also available. Case management and social services are available upon request and include referrals to obtain food stamps, medical assistance, photo identification and more. Referrals are also available for clients dealing with substance abuse problems.

Volunteer opportunities include:

Game Night: Volunteers and residents play games -- such as ice breakers, "Family Feud," Catch Phrase, and others -- to have some fun and beef up social skills and confidence.  Sign up here.