Meet Our Members - Providence Regina House

Providence Regina House

Today, Providence Regina House runs a successful food bank, serving 300 families each week. In addition, they run a clothing bank onsite for their clients. They also provide grocery delivery for 30 clients per week.

Recently, they started the South Park Fresh Starts program, where they utilized a greenhouse in order to be able to hand out plant starts to their clients. So far, this program turned out 5-6000 lbs of food provided so far.

A core group of 40 volunteers, in addition to 300 occasional volunteers, make this program successful. They also credit their success to strong community support, as the South Park community is very tight knit.

History of Providence Regina House

Providence Regina House has been serving those in need in the Seattle area since 1963. The roots of the ministry began as a response by Sister Mary Regina Bomber and the Sisters of Providence to those who sought food by knocking at the kitchen door of Providence Seattle Medical Center in the Central District. Originally known as the Mother Emilie Gamelin Department, the ministry’s name was later changed to the House of the Poor, until Sister Regina’s death in 1984. At this time, it became Providence Regina House in honor of Sister Regina’s great work and dedication feeding, clothing and visiting countless families in need.

In 2003, due to the sale of a portion of the historic building in which Providence Regina House was located, it was necessary to find a new home for the ministry. After a six-month closure, Regina House re-opened its doors on November 22nd, 2003 to serve the people of the South Park community.

Vision

Providence Regina House is committed to affirming the basic human worth and dignity of all persons. They envision a community where each person’s basic needs for daily living are met. Upholding the heritage and tradition of the Sisters of Providence they will:
• Provide goods and services within the local community
• Partner with community organizations that share common values to meet the needs of persons who are poor and vulnerable
• Advocate for thei neighbors by increasing awareness of the unmet needs in our community
• Act as a referral source for needed community services