ENTERING 100 YEARS OF SERVICE

Did you know Catholic Charities turns 100 this year? With the announcement of the Catholic Charities Appeal 2023, Catholic Charities is beginning 100 years of service. Founded in 1923, Catholic Charities is the most comprehensive direct human service provider serving all eight counties of Western New York.

On January 5, 2023, Bishop Fisher, Deacon Steve Schumer, and the Appeal leadership announced the goal of $9.5 million in support of Catholic Charities and the Diocesan Fund for the Faith.

The Annual Appeal helps fund 57 programs and services administered by Catholic Charities across 80 locations and many diocesan ministries through the Fund for the Faith.

This year marks the 100th year of Catholic Charities serving WNY and the 99th year of the Annual Appeal. During its first year, Catholic Charities served about 12,500 people. Last year, its programs and services supported more than 134,000 individuals, families, and children. In the 98 years of the Appeal, close to half a billion dollars has been raised to provide help and hope to those who need it most.

The Fund for the Faith provides for such ministries as campus ministry, cultural diversity, deaf ministry, parish spiritual renewal, marriage preparation, pro-life activities and services leadership and support services for Catholic education, and curriculum for Faith Formation programs in Catholic schools, among others.

This year, the Appeal patron is Venerable Nelson H. Baker, founder of Our Lady of Victory Charities. To donate to Appeal 2023, visit ccwny.org/donate or call 716-218-1400. In addition, donors can give by texting GIVEHOPE 23 to 44321 or scanning the OR code found on Appeal materials.