Walking With Our Immigrant Neighbors: A Look Inside Catholic Charities’ CARE Program

When we talk about Catholic social teaching, we often focus on big ideas like human dignity, solidarity, and the call to community. For Isaac Landsteiner, Director of Parish Social Ministry at Catholic Charities of Southern Minnesota, those teachings come alive most powerfully in the quiet, faithful work of accompaniment. 

For six years, Isaac has helped parishes across the diocese explore what it truly means to live out the Gospel in today’s world; through Bible studies, presentations, and raising awareness about issues affecting our neighbors near and far. One of the most tangible expressions of this mission is the CARE program, an initiative rooted in meeting people where they are, offering support, and upholding the dignity of every person. 

What is the CARE Program and Who Benefits from It? 

The CARE Program touched the community in July 2022 when the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) noticed a need in several dioceses, including Winona-Rochester. Immigrants unable to obtain a driver’s license faced struggled to find transportation to their ICE check-ins and immigration court hearings. Often taking place in the Twin Cities or Sioux Falls, the hour or longer journey seemed nearly impossible. Missing an immigration court case was not an option, yet many individuals had no safe, reliable, or affordable way to get there. Some community members began taking advantage of their plight by charging as much as $500 per person for transportation to the Twin Cities. 

Thus, the CARE program began. This ministry, operated by Catholic Charities, provides comfort and companionship for individuals through this vulnerable process. Isaac shares that even when there is a language barrier between CARE participants and volunteers, “they can still provide comfort just by having another person there.” It can be the smallest gestures like a pat on the back, holding a hand, or sitting together in silence that speaks the loudest.  

Now, many immigrants can get their own driver’s license, and many court cases have become virtual, but the very real need for CARE still exists. While the issue of transportation begins to lessen, the need for support and comfort continues to grow. 

Isaac’s Involvement and Why He Stays 

Isaac first became involved with CARE through his role as Director of Parish Social Ministry. He began by responding to the needs of some of Minnesota’s most diverse areas, including Worthington, which has the second highest minority population in Minnesota.  

 The need is just as real today, as immigration continues to be a deeply complex and often heavy topic that touches the lives of many of the families we call our neighbors. 

 For Isaac, the meaning behind the work is clear: 

“We have a lot more in common than we disagree on. Every person has human dignity. Accompaniment is the bare minimum we can do.” 

That commitment to presence, relationships, and respect is what motivates him to continue with this ministry and keeps him moving forward to make a difference.  

The Future of CARE 

Immigrant families are part of the fabric of so many communities across the Diocese of Winona-Rochester; places like St. James, Austin, and Pipestone, just to name a few. Isaac’s hope is that the CARE program can continue to grow and reach even more of these communities, meeting people where they are with compassion and support. 

He also envisions moments of real connection through shared meals, open conversations, and spaces where immigrants and longtime residents can listen to one another and truly be seen. These kinds of relationships not only change lives, but they deepen understanding and help communities grow stronger. 

Advice for Starting Something Similar 

Across the United States, every community has immigrant neighbors, many of whom are our Catholic brothers and sisters, who carry unspoken needs. Isaac encourages communities to: 

• Start small: Invite someone to a meal and ask what support they might need. 

• Listen: Migrant voices are too often underrepresented in conversations about their own lives. 

• Let the Holy Spirit lead: The kind of accompaniment will vary from place to place. 

The Ongoing Need for Volunteers 

As CARE continues to grow, so does the need for generous hearts willing to walk alongside others. Volunteers are always needed. Those who speak more than one language are especially welcomed, though compassion and a willing spirit are what matter most. The ministry is supported by a network of local teams, parish leaders, spiritual advisors; including Fr. Jim Callahan, who helped begin the first CARE program in Worthington, and now Lisa Kramer; and the dedicated staff of Catholic Charities. Together, they form a community rooted in faith, service, and trust in God’s guidance. 

If you feel even the smallest urge to learn more or get involved, Isaac invites you to reach out at ilandsteiner@ccsomn.org. As he says, “We’re open to where the Spirit leads in any community in the area.” It is those quiet stirrings that are where grace begins.