By Jessica Keenan Smith • Posted August 31, 2011

Thanks to the hard work and dedication of individual parishes, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia has surpassed the $8 million goal that was set for the 2011 Catholic Charities Appeal.

During the Appeal, the parishes of the Archdiocese reached out to thousands of donors. This was done on behalf of the 1.1 million individuals throughout the five counties of the Archdiocese who benefit from Catholic Social Services programs.

The Appeal also supports the needs of the community through many other critical programs, including education, eldercare and evangelization. Congratulations to you and your parish on this great achievement. You have had a great impact on those in need.

A case for support

The money raised through the Appeal supports Catholic Human Services, which includes Catholic Social Services, Catholic Health Care Services, Nutritional Development Services and the Office for Community Development.

Since its founding in 1958, Catholic Social Services has become an integral part of the Delaware Valley community, and the Appeal provides critical funding to sustain these programs. The Appeal also supports Catholic education, care for the elderly and infirm priests of the Archdiocese and evangelization efforts.

Lives transformed

With the help of the appeal, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia is able to transform lives. This has been especially true in the case of Grace Bowen, who has lived since she was age 3 at St. Edmond’s Home for Children.

“My daughter’s daily needs,” said Grace’s mother Doreen, “are beautifully cared for, from the minute she gets up to the minute she goes to bed. As a mother, what more could you want than for your child to be happy, and I can honestly say that Grace’s life at St. Edmonds is full, and she is truly happy.”

To learn more about the Catholic Charities Appeal visit www.catholiccharitiesappeal.org or call the Office for Stewardship and Development at 215-587-5650.

 

Jessica Keenan Smith is director of marketing and special events for the archdiocesan Office for Stewardship and Development.