Celebrating 25 Years: Meet An Original "Dreamer"

While she describes the volunteers and staff at Gerard Place as “angels,” Sr. Pauline Petruzzella, RSM  is clearly an angel herself.  For most of her life, she has served those in need in the Buffalo community and has been active at Gerard Place since it opened in 2000.

Sr. Pauline is one of the founders of Gerard Place, often referred to as the "dreamers." These dreamers, sisters from twelve Congregations of Women Religious in the Diocese of Buffalo, created Gerard Place to house homeless women and their children in East Buffalo.

A native of Buffalo’s West Side, Sr. Pauline entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1954 at the age of 18.  Her first assignment was teaching third grade at St. Martin’s.  She has taught at many Catholic grammar schools and worked at the Center for Justice in conflict resolution.    

Her ministry has focused on raising awareness of injustice and providing support to disadvantaged people.  She was once arrested during a protest at the U.S. Capitol, an event that had a lasting impact.

Sr. Pauline is a weekly volunteer for Gerard Place’s Take Out Meal Program. In partnership with Friends of the Night People, hot meals are distributed on Mondays and Wednesdays.  Over the years, she has spent many hours at Gerard Place, doing whatever was needed. 

"Clients at Gerard Place are treated with respect, and no questions are asked about their circumstances or needs,” she said.  "They really appreciate the help.” 

In addition to meals provided during Take Out Meal nights, clients can select clothes or other necessities and learn about other Gerard Place services. 

"The volunteers are wonderful, and we work together very well,” she said. "There is a good feeling, and we appreciate each other.” 

Her service to those in need extends beyond Gerard Place.  Sr. Pauline also works at Holy Family Parish distributing food on Thursday evenings.  She is dedicated to serving others as she sees the needs of the poor increase. 

Sr. Pauline is grateful to be able to help others. "The Holy Spirit is always with me,” she said.