WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP?

The last two weeks have been filled with stories of those whose lives have been affected by the senseless shooting at Tops on May14th. We have heard and read stories about the great people whose lives were taken before their time. We have heard and read the stories about continued suffering of the families of the victims and the community of the East Side of Buffalo.

This terrible tragedy has affected all of us in one way or another. Many feel helpless and wonder what they can do to alleviate the pain that all are experiencing. Our first response to the question, “What can I do to help?” is to pray. We can pray for an end to the hate and racism that causes such evil in the communities of our nation. We can pray for consolation and comfort for all who are directly affected by this awful tragedy.

Secondly, Catholic Charities, which has a long history of serving and ministering to Buffalo’s East Side Community operates eight locations on the East Side. They provide services including food, basic necessities, counseling, WIC, and workforce training. Parishes have been asked to take a second collection to assist the families of the victims. Catholic Charities will use the donations to provide support to those affected by this devastating incident. Donations can also be made to the Response to Love Center and Mother Teresa Home which provide direct assistance to the East Side Community.

Catholic Charities has now reached almost 92% of its goal with St. Louis Parish contributing $144,736.11 which is now more than $14,000 over our goal. There is still more than a month to go in the 2022 Appeal. There is still time, if you have not made a donation or would like to add to your donation, to help Catholic Charities meet its goal.

Our second collection this weekend will be for Catholic Charities to support those affected by the shooting at Tops. Last weekend the second collection to provide support for the East Side was $906. Thank you for your generosity.

As we move forward in the coming days and weeks, may we be united in our efforts to end racism and violence in all forms.