Lalitamba Saranam (fondly known as Frederick’s Place after our cat mascot-manager) is a homestyle youth shelter–temporarily closed–in the heart of New York City. The shelter has been affiliated with the UN-CSVGC and the Legion of Mary-Comfort of the Afflicted Praesidium, as a service project. 

Our Founder: We met Frederick at a local food pantry, where he was serving as the resident mouser. In time, we adopted him, and he was immediately promoted. Everybody loved him–for his care, attention, and sense of humor. When he wasn’t working, or when he was, Frederick enjoyed rocking out to the Rolling Stones and eating hot dogs. He is the author of Nine Life Tales, witty vignettes about his time managing the shelter.

Our service with the homeless continues with Frederick’s Kitchen. Now serving weekly!!

Through Frederick’s Kitchen, we also donate to food pantries and bread lines, offering food aid and bottled water, prayer cards, Gideons (pocket) New Testament-Psalms-Proverbs, toiletries/hygiene needs, and social services referrals for our brothers and sisters who are living on the street. To reach the referral line, please call 212.873.0140.

The current prayer card is St. Anthony of Padua.

Meet Patrick, the office manager. Patrick was surrendered to the Animal Sanctuary after he fell from a fifth-floor window. He barely survived. Among other injuries, his right hind leg was shattered. Veterinarians and surgeons said it could not be repaired. Amputation was recommended.

Patrick is a miracle cat. Today, his leg is healed and, as per his veterinary records, he “walks with no appreciable limp.” He also oversees printing and unpacks boxes for the outreach programs.

It is in giving that we receive. –St. Francis of Assisi