Archdiocese of Philadelphia Launches 2016 Catholic Charities Appeal

This year’s Appeal answers Pope Francis’ call to serve those in need with an expanded vision and increased goal

 Today, Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap. announced the launch of the 2016 Catholic Charities Appeal, with an expanded vision to serve even more people in need and an increased fundraising goal of $15 million.

The announcement took place at St. Katherine Day School in Wynnewood, Montgomery County, an Archdiocesan school of special education and beneficiary of the Catholic Charities Appeal. The Archbishop is encouraging all people of good will to support the single largest annual fundraising effort within the Archdiocese.

During Pope Francis’ recent visit to Philadelphia, he challenged the faithful with the words “What about you?” and encouraged everyone to draw on the power of Jesus’ cross to bring, joy, hope and strength to the world. The 2016 Catholic Charities Appeal responded to Pope Francis’ call and will expand this historic campaign to reach close to 180 beneficiaries in five crucial areas of ministry: Education, Social Services, Evangelization, Parish & Spiritual Life, Clergy, and Mission Activities.

Archbishop Chaput said, “I want to thank every person who has supported the Catholic Charities Appeal. Each year you have helped feed, clothe and educate over 200,000 people in need from all faith backgrounds in our community. These new campaign elements are important works and ministries of the Church. Your generosity will continue to bring meaningful, spiritual and material assistance to those most in need and in the lives of those we serve for future generations to come.” Chaput continued, “Motivated by love and inspired by Pope Francis, we can make a difference. Together, we can grow as a community united in a new vision for the Church in Philadelphia. Thank you and may God Bless you all.”

In previous years, the Annual Appeal exceeded the $10 million fundraising goal, with over 50,000 donors and supplemented the funding sources for programs and services administered throughout all five counties of the Archdiocese that provide help and create hope for the elderly and disabled, the hungry and homeless, children and families in need, and persons with disabilities. With the $15 million fundraising goal of this year’s Annual Appeal, up to $10 million will be earmarked to fund the ministries that historically benefit from the generosity of the faithful in the Archdiocese.

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Editor’s Note: For more information, please visit www.catholiccharitiesappeal.org or call Sarah O. Hanley, Director of Development and Fundraising Services at 215-587-5650.

Contact:

Bonnie Olinger
Communications Specialist
215-587-3747 (office)