Let’s Help, Inc. and Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas are pleased to announce a planned organizational transition that will strengthen, expand and sustain essential services for our community while returning this vital work to its original roots.
Founded decades ago, in the basement of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Let’s Help began as a simple, faithful response to neighbors in need, offering food and compassion to those facing hardship. That same spirit has guided the organization’s growth into a trusted community resource for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity, poverty and crisis. Today, through an asset transfer agreement, Let’s Help will formally transfer its programs and assets to Catholic Charities, followed by the dissolution of Let’s Help as a standalone nonprofit.
This transition represents both a homecoming and a path forward. By joining Catholic Charities, the mission that first took shape within the walls of a Catholic parish will once again be carried forward by a Catholic ministry, now strengthened by the infrastructure, resources and long-term stability needed to meet increasing demand in our community.
Catholic Charities, who has had a long-standing presence in Topeka operating a Family Support Center, brings deep experience, a strong operational foundation and a shared commitment to serving vulnerable populations with dignity and respect. Together, this transition ensures that these critical services not only continue but grow in reach and sustainability.
In the months ahead, Catholic Charities’ Topeka Family Support Center will transition from 234 S. Kansas Avenue to the current home of Let’s Help Inc. at 245 SW MacVicar Avenue. Services at Let’s Help will continue without interruption. More importantly, with Catholic Charities assuming responsibilities for operations and future development, this space will allow life-changing programs to grow including food assistance, housing support, education and employment services.
“This decision was made with careful discernment and a deep commitment to the people we serve,” said Pat Yancey, Let’s Help’s board president. “In many ways, this is a return to where it all began while also ensuring that the mission is stronger than ever. By entrusting this work to Catholic Charities, we are securing the future of these services for the neighbors who depend on them every day.”
Catholic Charities leadership echoed this vision, “We are honored to carry forward the legacy of Let’s Help,” said Lauren Solidum, President and CEO of Catholic Charities. “What began in a church basement as a simple act of compassion has grown into something truly impactful. We are committed to building on that foundation by expanding services, increasing access, and ensuring that no neighbor in need is overlooked.”
Let’s Help donors and supporters can be confident that their generosity will continue to support the same essential services under Catholic Charities. All donor restrictions will be honored, and funders have been notified of the transition.
Additional details about timelines and next steps will be shared as the process moves forward.
“We are deeply grateful to the staff, volunteers, board members, donors and community partners who have made Let’s Help’s work possible over the years,” Yancey said. “This transition reflects a shared belief: that by returning to our roots and strengthening our foundation, we can serve more people, more effectively, for generations to come.”
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Let’s Help:
Patrick Yancey
Board President
(785) 234-6208
Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas:
Lauren Solidum
President and CEO
(913) 433-2100
