As holiday season approaches, area faithful will have a new opportunity for helping Catholic nonprofits through their charitable contributions.

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia and the Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia (CFGP) have recently teamed up to participate in this year’s #iGiveCatholic initiative.

Celebrated on #GivingTuesday, a global day of philanthropy that follows Thanksgiving, #iGiveCatholic is the first such campaign designed to focus fundraising efforts on Catholic parishes, schools and nonprofit ministries. This year, #iGiveCatholic will take place on Dec. 1.

The crowdfunding effort “celebrates the beauty of our faith, demonstrates our shared commitment to live out the corporal works of mercy, and inspires acts of Christian charity,” said Archbishop Nelson Pérez.

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Founded in the Archdiocese of New Orleans in 2015, the bishop-led initiative raised more than $7.4 million last year for over 1,700 beneficiaries from 39 U.S. dioceses.

Such funding has become more vital than ever, since the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically increased the demand for nonprofit services even as contributions have declined.

“Your support demonstrates tremendous heart and a deep compassion for your brothers and sisters in Christ,” said Archbishop Pérez.

From now until Oct. 30, Archdiocese of Philadelphia parishes, schools and nonprofits can register to participate in #iGiveCatholic by visiting https://philadelphia.igivecatholic.org.