As we soon gather to celebrate the birth of Our Lord, Jesus Christ, we are reminded of the immense hope and renewal that His arrival brings to the world. This spirit of hope has guided the staff and volunteers of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., throughout 2024 as they worked tirelessly to serve the most vulnerable across Southwest Florida.
Thanks is given for the generosity of benefactors who support the many programs and services of Catholic Charities that making its work possible throughout the year.
Catholic Charities assisted more than 350,000 people in need, providing a wide range of services throughout the 10-county Diocese of Venice this year. The support of the faithful allowed Catholic Charities to meet the overwhelming demand for aid following the devastation caused by the double-barreled shot-gun approach of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, which collectively displaced tens of thousands of families across Florida. Additional services offered include food and housing assistance, counseling and mental health services, and programs for seniors and children. For example:
- $4 million was provided in financial assistance to stabilize families in crisis, keeping them housed, employed, and hopeful;
- Disaster relief for more than 50,000 individuals, including essentials like food, clean water, and recovery supplies following Hurricanes Helene and Milton;
- Housing assistance for more than 1,200 families and seniors, offering safe havens for those in desperate need and those who have lost everything;
- 39,000 pantry services, ensuring no child or family goes hungry.
To enable Catholic Charities to continue to do its vital work, the Annual Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal is taking place now through January 2025. A donation strengthens Catholic Charities to provide this much-needed support (www.catholiccharitiesdov.org).
Bishop Frank J. Dewane noted that the continued support of Catholic Charities by the faithful of Southwest Florida is inspirational and critical, “ensuring our brothers and sisters in Christ continue to receive the help and support they need. Please remember that every number represents a child, family or individual who relies on the support of Catholic Charities to get through a crisis. Catholic Charities does a tremendous job in providing programs that not only help in a crisis but assist in improving the daily lives of those they reach. Your support is appreciated and critical!”
In an appeal letter to supporters, Christopher M. Root, CEO of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., and Rita Cavuoto, Chair of the Board of Directors, wrote,
“This Christmas, we turn to you in this Season of Giving, our most critical appeal of the year. Your generosity during this Holy Season has the power to transform lives. Each family we serve comes to us with unique challenges, and it is only through your partnership that we can respond with the love and resources they need. In alignment with Catholic social teaching, we strive to embody the virtues of charity, justice, and mercy in every service provided. These principles remind us that caring for our neighbors is not just an act of kindness, it is our sacred duty as followers of Christ.”
One of the most inspiring stories this year is that of Maria, a mother of two who lost her home to Hurricane Helene. With your support, Catholic Charities provided her with shelter, job assistance, and access to childcare. Today, Maria has secured stable housing and meaningful employment, and her children are thriving. Her resilience is a testament to the strength that emerges when compassion meets hope.
“Please prayerfully consider making a gift that will continue to bring hope and healing to those in need,” Root and Cavuoto wrote. “Every dollar you contribute furthers our mission to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, comfort the afflicted, and uplift the vulnerable in our community. Thank you for standing with us as we bring the light of Christ to those in darkness. May your Christmas season be filled with His love and peace, and may the new year bring abundant blessings to you and your family.”
No matter the amount of your gift, when combined with others, it will make a significant difference for those who turn to Catholic Charities for help.
To support the Catholic Charities 2024 Christmas Appeal, please mail a contribution to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., 1000 Pinebrook Road, Venice, FL 34285, or visit https://catholiccharitiesdov.org/donate.
