History:

The Catholic Worker Movement, begun by Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin in the 1930's, is an international network of ministries in service to and solidarity with the poorest among us. The Oakland Catholic Worker began in 1987 to respond to the influx of refugee families from El Salvador that were arriving in East Oakland as a result of a bloody civil war. The OCW began by offering hospitality - a temporary home from one to six months - and accompaniment - walking with our guests in their struggle to establish a productive and meaningful life in this country. Over the years, in response to changes in Latin America, the strangers knocking at our door have begun to come from different places and situations, but they have always arrived fleeing desperation and terror - and they have always needed a welcoming refuge, a helping hand and a bridge to the world.