Bertha DePriest first learned about The Night Ministry more than two decades ago while on vacation in Argentina, in a conversation with a couple she met and is still friends with Gordon and Paula Addington. The name itself piqued her curiosity, and when she returned home, she encouraged her church to get involved. Soon, her congregation was preparing evening meals and delivering them to The Night Ministry's Health Outreach Bus. This experience opened her eyes to the struggles faced by many unhoused people in Chicago.
A Senior Art Director at Spiegel until her retirement in 2000, Bertha always believed in putting her resources to work where they could make a difference. "Uncle Sam doesn't need more of our money," she often said, reminding others that charitable giving could provide both impact and tax benefits. Living by that principle, she became a donor to The Night Ministry, drawn to the organization's direct and compassionate service.
Becoming a Beacon of Hope felt like a natural next step. As a monthly donor, she appreciates the ease and consistency, knowing her support reliably reaches those who need it.
"You usually end up giving more, and you never forget," she explained with a smile.
A Senior Art Director at Spiegel until her retirement in 2000, Bertha always believed in putting her resources to work where they could make a difference. "Uncle Sam doesn't need more of our money," she often said, reminding others that charitable giving could provide both impact and tax benefits. Living by that principle, she became a donor to The Night Ministry, drawn to the organization's direct and compassionate service.
Becoming a Beacon of Hope felt like a natural next step. As a monthly donor, she appreciates the ease and consistency, knowing her support reliably reaches those who need it.
"You usually end up giving more, and you never forget," she explained with a smile.
Bertha hopes her contributions help expand The Night Ministry's reach, ensuring that more people become aware of and support its vital work. With her twin sister by her side, she recently celebrated her 95th birthday—still filled with the same passion for community, generosity, and faith that first inspired her journey.
Become a Beacon of Hope
Thanks to the recurring contributions from our Beacons of Hope, The Night Ministry can continue to be a light for so many of our unhoused and impoverished neighbors in Chicago. With their steady support, we can put more resources into the life-saving services and programs that many people need to survive. Click Here to learn more and sign up.