Jim and Bonnie Gwin Donate to Joseph’s Home Relocation
“Let us care for one another and let us be loving custodians of creation.” – Pope Francis
Jim and Bonnie Gwin are firm believers in the lessons taught by the late Pope Francis. They reflect on his call to care for neighbors in need and to treat all with humanity, dignity and respect.
Joseph & Mary’s Home is a place they know makes a difference and provides a safe, healing environment. Giving back to fellow Greater Clevelanders—a region they are proud to call home—spurred Jim and Bonnie, along with their sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren, to make a gift toward the Joseph’s Home relocation project.
“We wanted to invest in an organization that will be helping men and women long after we are gone,” said Bonnie. “The residents at Joseph & Mary’s Home, anyone experiencing homelessness, are a concern for us. This is certainly an expansion of a mission that is much needed.”
The Gwins first heard of Joseph & Mary’s Home through Project Serve at St. Dominic Church in Shaker Heights. Project Serve, which is the church’s service organization, often supports Joseph & Mary’s Home through its Advent Coat Collection.
After donating coats to the residents and learning more about Joseph & Mary’s Home’s mission, Jim and Bonnie gave to the annual appeal. They soon learned details about the Joseph’s Home relocation project.
When they saw the new space would feature modern one-floor living and be 100% handicapped accessible, they knew it was the right time to provide additional support.
“We have been blessed and very fortunate on many fronts. This was the right time to help,” said Jim.
As a child, Bonnie heard from both of her parents about the impact generosity can have on a life. Her mother grew up in an orphanage in Appalachia, while her father’s family lost a lot during the Great Depression.
“My mom and other children at the orphanage would each get an orange at Christmastime. It was a small gesture. But it reminded her that someone out there cared about her. The little things really can matter,” she said.
A graduate of Georgetown University, Bonnie also carries with her the Jesuit core value of being men and women for others. Joseph & Mary’s Home, she said, meets an unmet need in restoring to health those who are often forgotten.
“Think about what Pope Francis taught us. He emphasized taking care of one another. We are called to help the most vulnerable in Cleveland who need specialized care and support,” Bonnie said.
“If you are blessed, pass it on,” added Jim.
Editor’s note: Joseph’s Home moved into a new fully accessible, one-floor space in 2025 that is attached to the existing Mary’s Home. Just like the former Joseph’s Home, the new location has room to house 11 men.
