Image via Saint Agnes Medical Center Facebook page

Saint Agnes Medical Center and Poverello House announced Wednesday that they are joining forces to open Naomi’s House at Holy Cross, a 30-bed transitional housing facility in Downtown Fresno, providing shelter along with pathways to healing, stability and opportunities for underserved women in the Valley.

The center, a renovated, 2,426-square-foot facility inside the Saint Agnes’ Holy Cross Health and Wellness Center, will provide housing for up to 90 days for unhoused and underserved women, featuring a full-sized kitchen and dining area, private showers, bedding, laundry services and a dedicated educational space.

“More than 40 years ago, the Sisters initiated this collaboration to address the pressing needs of our community,” said Ivonne Der Torosian, Saint Agnes Vice President. “Today, it is a privilege to carry forward their mission by providing a safe space for women with a renovated Naomi’s House and our future initiatives.”

The two nonprofit organizations have long shared a commitment to uplifting vulnerable members of the community; for over four decades they have partnered, starting with the founding of the Holy Cross Center for Women (now known as the Holy Cross Health and Wellness Center) near the Poverello House campus.

The pair have upheld a legacy of compassionate care, providing clothing, diapers and educational support for women and children. They partner to offer free health care and dental services and have recently expanded services to include mental health and substance abuse support.

“Our partnership with Saint Agnes Medical Center spans more than four decades,” said Poverello House CEO Zackary Darrah. “Throughout that time, we have remained united in a common purpose to uplift and to care for women experiencing homelessness with dignity, compassion, and unwavering respect.”

Additionally, the two organizations are in the process of developing a community garden, providing residents with a peaceful, outdoor space and onsite medical clinic.