Mission Statement

Daystar is an agency of the Diocese of Belleville reaching out with FAITH HOPE AND CHARITY. Responding to the human needs of the people of southern Illinois. Providing a just and caring Community for all God’s children. 

As the Daystar brings hope of a new day, so may our Daystar ministry bring hope to those we serve.  At Daystar we believe that God calls us to a ministry with the poor, the elderly, the disadvantaged; that each person has dignity as a person loved by God; and the quality of life of those living in Cairo and the surrounding counties must be improved.  In solidarity with the poor, we strive to listen, share hopes and plans, build a feeling of self-worth in those we meet, assist in whatever way we are able, be present to persons in sickness and sorrow and enable others to be what God calls them to be.

Founded by the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ in 1978, Daystar Community Program is one of very few social service agencies in and around the community of Cairo, which is at the very southernmost point of Illinois. 

Daystar Services/Programs
Outreach Program

• Assistance of Mortgage/Lease Payments
• Utilities
• Medical/Prescription Expenses
• Transportation
• Furniture/Appliance In emergency
• In-Home Visitation/Assistance
• Mobile Food Pantry (as well as location food pantry)
• The Kitchen Table (soup kitchen)
• Thanksgiving Day Dinner
• Christmas Outreach for Children and Families

Daystar Volunteer Opportunities

Summer programs for youth from universities, Catholic high schools and church youth groups have been an ongoing part of Daystar for 27 years.  Youth and adults volunteer in the Cairo community and nearby areas to help residents with minor home repairs, painting, gardens, clean-ups and other needs – no task is too small or too large.  Contact number, 618-734-0178 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for additional information and to schedule your volunteer experience!

Daystar Hours

• Daystar offices and thrift store are open to the public 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
• Outreach is Ongoing

Daystar Donations

Donations of food, clothing, household goods, furniture, medical equipment and monetary donations are always needed and graciously appreciated.