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2005 Jefferson Award Recipient: Sister Christina Heltsley

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Since becoming the Executive Director of the St. Francis Center five years ago, Sister Christina Heltsley has fostered direct social services of food, clothing, and housing serving more than 500 families a month, while maintaining and operating a 24-unit high quality apartment building serving primarily immigrant, non-English speaking families with very low incomes. Bringing her own passion for education, she started the St. Francis Center School for 12 non-English speaking families, educating children without tuition with the proviso that the mothers participate in ESL and computer classes. Though not yet in middle school, as a result of their academic achievements and Sister Christina's commitment to their continued success, St. Francis Center school children are assured space in the prestigious Catholic high school preparatory system. A vacant lot that was once used primarily to conduct drug-deals, Sister Christina built a thriving community garden providing plots that feeds the neighborhood.   Her tired less efforts does not stop at her community as she collects and delivers donations to orphanages in Mexico. Sister Christina maintains these services through grants, foundations, and private donations, without government support. And yet, Sister Christina always has time to extend a warm welcome and a listening ear to everyone who comes to her door.   Filled with faith, Sister Christina's passion and commitment to public service has transformed a neighborhood and the lives of many immigrant families in San Mateo County.