Merry Christmas! Let us welcome the sense of hope and joy that accompanies this sacred season, rich with traditions meant to draw us closer to Christ and each other. I pray that you will remember the most vulnerable among us as you prepare for Christmas this year. At Catholic Charities, we are doing God’s work in the community as we warmly welcome individuals and families who are experiencing poverty, homelessness, hunger, loneliness, desperation, and fear. We embrace those who have been forgotten or marginalized. Then, we empower these individuals to work toward self-sufficiency.

A gift to Catholic Charities this Christmas will help provide light and hope to those we serve, including:

• After suffering years of abuse, Mark, 73, received help from Catholic Charities. His living conditions were unfit and he was very medically fragile. Catholic Charities helped navigate a complicated medical system to connect Mark with the treatment he desperately needed. After he was discharged from the hospital, Mark moved into a safe and comfortable home where he is optimistic about the future.
• Aliyah is a loving and energetic four-year-old girl who lives with her mother and two siblings. The family is grieving the loss of Aliyah’s father, who was tragically killed last year. This little girl walks with her mom to Head Start each day because the family cannot afford a vehicle. This is sweet family is working hard to overcome challenges and puts great value in education.
• Steven is a 37-year-old veteran who served four years on active duty as an infantry soldier in the Army and another four years in the Army reserves. When Steven and his ex-wife separated, he and his son were left without a home. They slept in the car and on friends’ couches before he contacted Catholic Charities for help. Today, Steven is working with Catholic Charities’ SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran’s Families) Program and will soon move into a home.

These are just three of the families we serve at Catholic Charities. Each person has unique circumstances and challenges. We are here to welcome each person without judgement. 

Please bring peace and hope to those who need it most.

I pray that you and your family enjoy a blessed Christmas inspired by the gift of Christ to live your faith vibrantly. May God bless you and all those you love, always.

Click here to donate or call 815-724-1140.