Catholic Charities of Central Texas

Pope Affirms the Church Won't Abandon the Poor

2010-02-16T15:10:00.003-06:00

From VATICAN CITY, FEB. 14, 2010, Pope Benedict XVI Visited Don Luigi di Liegro shelter run by Caritas in Rome, Recalls Christ's Identification With the Impoverished.

Click on the heading to read the full translated text.

Pope Benedict XVI is assuring the poor of the love that the Church has for them, stating that it will not abandon them.

The Pope stated this today in an address while visiting the Don Luigi di Liegro shelter run by Caritas in Rome.

The Pontiff visited the various facilities on the premises, including the health center, hostel, canteen, and pharmacy, and he blessed a commemorative plaque.

He greeted the medical staff and volunteer aid workers as well as the poor people who are being served at the shelter.

"Dear brothers and friends who have found welcome here," the Holy Father said, "know that the Church loves you deeply and will not abandon you, because it recognizes in the countenance of each of you that of Christ."

"He wanted to identify himself in a very special way with those who find themselves in poverty and indigence," he affirmed.

"The witness of charity, which in this place finds particular realization, belongs to the mission of the Church together with the proclamation of the Gospel," Benedict XVI stated.

Dignity

He added, "Man does not only need to be fed materially or helped to overcome moments of difficulty, but also has the necessity of knowing who he is and knowing the truth about himself, about his dignity."

The Pope affirmed that "the Church, with its service on behalf of the poor, is therefore charged to proclaim to all the truth about man, who is loved by God, created in his image, redeemed by Christ and called to eternal communion with him."

He continued: "Many people have thus wanted to rediscover, and are rediscovering, their dignity, sometimes lost in tragic events, and recover confidence in themselves and hope in the future.

"Through deeds, examples and words of those who lend their service here, numerous men and women are able to feel in a tangible way that their lives are protected by the Love that is God, and because of this they have a meaning and an importance."

"This profound certainty generates in man's heart a powerful, solid, luminous hope, a hope that gives one the courage to continue on the journey of life despite the failures, difficulties and trials that accompany it," the Pontiff acknowledged.

He encouraged those who work in the shelter to "have before your eyes and your heart Jesus' example, who for love became our servant and loved us 'to the end,' to the cross."

"Be joyous witnesses of the infinite charity of God," the Holy Father stated, "and, imitating the example of the deacon St. Lawrence, consider these friends of yours a treasure more precious than your life."

Click here or on the heading to read the full translated text on ZENIT'S Web page.

Valentine's Day Call to Christian Love

2010-02-09T15:00:00.002-06:00

Around Valentine’s Day, our thoughts often turn to love. We should take this opportunity to extend our reflections to include not just romantic love, but agape, or Christian love as well. Jesus said in John 13:34-35, “Love one another as I have loved you. By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” A most powerful statement on agape was made by Archbishop Oscar Romero who said, “If there were love of neighbor there would be no terrorism, no repression, no selfishness, none of such cruel inequalities in society, no abductions, no crimes.” The apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 13 that if we have faith to move mountains, but do not have love, it means nothing.

The mission of Catholic Charities of Central Texas is based on this directive to love and serve everyone—to cherish the dignity and potential of every person. This call to love is what inspires us to strengthen individuals, families (an important source of love) and communities. In his Apostolic Letter in 2000, His Holiness Pope John Paul II asks us to promote a spirituality of communion, making this our guiding principle. This means, he writes, “an ability to think of our brothers and sisters in faith within the profound unity of the Mystical Body, and therefore as ‘those who are a part of me’. This makes us able to share their joys and sufferings, to sense their desires and attend to their needs, to offer them deep and genuine friendship.” At Catholic Charities of Central Texas, we live this on Valentine’s Day and also long after the chocolates have been eaten and the flowers have wilted.

There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine’s Day. The most commonly accepted belief is that it honors a third century priest named Valentine who secretly performed illegal marriages. Roman Emperor Claudius II had outlawed marriage believing that single men made better soldiers as they had no emotional ties. Valentine was eventually caught and sentenced to death for defying the marriage ban and also for refusing to denounce Christianity. While in prison, Valentine befriended the jailer’s daughter. Some legends claim that he cured her of blindness. Before his execution on February 14, 269 A.D., he wrote the girl a letter thanking her for her friendship and signed it “With love from your Valentine.” In 496 A.D., Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honor him, and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers.

Collaborating with other Ministries is Essential

2010-01-27T16:11:00.001-06:00

On January 1, 2010, we celebrated a new year and the beginning of a new decade. New beginnings are exciting – we have the opportunity to set new goals, have a fresh start and look at new possibilities. But there is no doubt that we also carry with us the challenges of the past and what challenges we have faced as a nation, a state and a Diocese.

Many of the new challenges we are facing in 2010 are the result of the prolonged economic recession. In October, 2009, our Angels of Hope Food Pantry fed more people than in any other month in our history: 719 households or 2,637 people. More people called for rent, mortgage and utility assistance than ever before. And we are not alone. Catholic Charities USA conducted a survey and received responses from 74 Catholic Charities agencies from around the country and covers the third quarter of 2009. The survey indicated that 70 percent of agencies saw an increase in demand for food stamps; 85 percent reported increased requests for rent or mortgage assistance; and 42 percent saw an increase in demand for counseling and mental health services. According to Fr. Larry Snyder, President of Catholic Charities USA, the driving force behind the increased demand is the loss of jobs; noting not only the high unemployment in urban areas like Detroit but also the diminishing number of jobs in rural areas.

We can’t meet all the needs that come to us. That’s why collaborating with other Catholic ministries like St. Vincent de Paul, Mary Catholic Worker House, Mobile Loaves & Fishes and Vincare, to name a few, is very important. But with your help and the help of our partners, we can continue to strengthen families by providing help and hope to our brothers and sisters here in the Diocese of Austin. Thanks for all you do to serve Christ and the Church through your ministry at Catholic Charities.

I hope that 2010 is a great year for all of us!

‘The Poor Will Always Be With Us’ Means What?

2010-01-20T14:04:00.001-06:00

The Nobel Prize laureate Muhammod Yanus wrote a book, Creating a World Without Poverty: Social Business and the Future of Capitalism, in which he places numbers on the face of poverty to help us recognize the size of the situation. The numbers are that 94% of the world’s income goes to 40% of the people. Therefore, 6% of the world income goes to 60% of the people. This means half the world lives on $2 or $1 a day.

Granted poverty is not distributed evenly around the world: specific regions suffer its worst effect. In our part of the world, social progress has had an effect so that only 47 million Americans, or 1/6th of the population, or 16.6%, endure poverty as opposed to the 60% average in the world where local figures become global figures.

As a Catholic, what are we to do? Jesus’ remark about the poor always will be with us is often taken out of context. It was not a remark to resign that whatever we do to eradicate poverty will be futile. He gave us His plan to eradicate poverty in that passage. (Matthew 26: 6-13). The back story is that a woman brought an expensive ointment and poured it over Jesus’ head. A practical disciple thought it should have been sold and the money given to the poor. Jesus instructed those listening with a text and subtext that the woman had used her resource well. She had prepared Him for His burial, but the subtext was that she used what she had to praise God.

If we implement this message into the poverty we encounter in our community, on the street corner, with the unemployed sitting at a computer looking for work, in the children who are void of but developing skills, we see His directive. We are to build and honor skills. We are to pay our children for babysitting, for they used their capabilities well to serve others and in the end a greater Good. We are to appreciate and buy crafts of those struggling to be a part of the supportive commerce system. Afterall, Nike began as a product being sold from the trunk of a car. We help those struggling to use their skills to support themselves and be an integral part of the whole of commerce. It’s the little supportive actions that make a lasting impression. We are the small alabaster jar that holds the precious actions that will flow over God in praise when we help build, honor, pay, buy, use a skill, craft, service, or resource correctly --- be it ours or others.

Carol Ikard
Board Member, Catholic Charities of Central Texas

Catholic Charities - Hope for Haiti Fundraiser - Saturday, Jan 23rd., 1pm

2010-01-19T17:54:00.003-06:00

Catholic Charities of Central Texas is partnering with five local bands to raise money for Haiti earthquake relief efforts. Catholic Charities invites all to attend the Hope for Haiti Fundraiser. This wonderful family friendly fundraiser is open to everyone; we ask that you please consider making a small donation to help the earthquake recovery efforts in Haiti. Bring the family, hang out with friends and neighbors, and enjoy live music from local artists.

Event:
HOPE FOR HAITI Fundraiser

Location:
Catholic Charities of Central Texas
1817 East 6th Street
Austin, TX 78702

Date/ Time:
Sat. January 23, 2010 1pm – 4pm

Entrance Fee:
A $5 dollar donation is suggested which will go directly to Haiti relief efforts.
Open to all ages.

Parking:
Street Parking

Seating:
Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets.

Musicians:
The event features local artists;

· Ryan Young - 1pm
· Margo Valiante - 1:30pm
· about:blank - 2pm
· Akina Adderley - 2:30pm
· Los Texas Wranglers - 3pm

All proceeds from this event will go directly to Catholic Relief Services for their ongoing disaster relief efforts in Haiti. Relief efforts already in progress include mobilization of food and deployment of pre-positioned emergency shelters, hygiene kits, as well as bringing supplies in from the neighboring Dominican Republic.

Donations Needed for Families in Haiti

2010-01-13T17:25:00.002-06:00

The island nation of Haiti has been ravaged by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake resulting in many deaths and destruction of buildings.

“We extend our prayers and concerns to all those who have been so tragically impacted by this disaster,” said Cynthia Colbert, executive director of Catholic Charities of Central Texas. “We are encouraging donations to be made directly to Catholic Relief Service, the international response agency of the Roman Catholic Church, so that they can respond to this terrible disaster.”

Anyone wishing to make a donation through Catholic Charities of Central Texas can donate at www.ccctx.org but are encouraged to give directly to Catholic Relief Services that has already begun the recovery effort through its offices and workers in the small island nation.

Emergency briefings from Catholic Relief Services report an initial commitment of 5 million dollars for immediate use in the relief effort. Catholic Relief Services is geared up for major emergency response and is mobilizing food and deployment of pre-positioned emergency shelter and hygiene kits in Haiti, as well as bringing supplies in from the neighboring Dominican Republic.

HOW TO HELP:

Donate online:
www.ccctx.org

By Mail:
Catholic Charities of Central Texas
c/o Haiti Earthquake
1817 East 6th Street
Austin, Texas 78702

Donate online:
www.crs.org

By Mail:
Catholic Relief Services
c/o Haiti Earthquake
P.O. Box 17090
Baltimore, Maryland 21203-7090

Catholic Charities of Central Texas encourages support of Catholic Relief Services (CRS); those interested in donation to the CRS relief efforts for Haiti, should call (410) 625-2220 or 1-800-736-3467 or visit their Web site at http://www.crs.org.

What is it like to have your electricity or your gas turned off because you couldn’t pay the past due bill?

2010-01-12T16:16:00.001-06:00

What is it like to have your electricity or your gas turned off because you couldn’t pay the past due bill?

When your power is turned off, you try to stay warm with added clothes and more blankets. But how do you cook? How do you keep your food refrigerated? How do you warm water? How do you provide for your children?

Many families seek help by calling a local St. Vincent de Paul Council, 211 Texas, a local community agency or Catholic Charities to get assistance. Often, they have to call multiple agencies or churches to get the assistance they need, only to be told, “We are out of funds for the month. Contact us again next month.”

With the extreme heat this summer, many families are still coping with previous utility bills and this is now worsened by the arrival of harsher weather.

Many ministries, like St. Vincent de Paul and Catholic Charities, report that the number of people requesting help is up significantly from last year. With rises in unemployment and underemployment, families have fewer resources to address their most basic needs—food, heat, and shelter. For our brothers and sister on the streets, the cold weather poses even more difficulties as they require blankets, coats, socks, shoes and other clothing items to help them stay warm.

As a board member of Catholic Charities, I know first hand, the difference that we can make by helping people during these cold, winter months.

As you know, we are experiencing record cold weather here in Central Texas with low temperatures in the twenties in most places. This is definitely a time we need to help our brothers and sisters who are out of work, or low income, in order to assist with utility payments or heaters.

We cannot allow people to be left freezing in their homes, especially children, elderly and those with illnesses, when we are warm in the comfort of our homes.

Please join me in making a contribution online now at http://ccctx.org/donate_online.php

Requests for assistance are increasing and coming in daily. Your help will make a big difference to a family.

Thank you,

Art Borrego
Treasurer, Board of Directors
Catholic Charities of Central Texas

January is Poverty Awareness Month – What Is the Lord Calling You to Do?

2010-01-05T17:10:00.010-06:00

In November of 2009, the U.S. Census released updated data through the American Community Survey (ACS) which provides updated population and demographic projections for most communities in the United States. The 3-year estimates showed that a large percentage of people in our nation, state and Diocese lived at or below the federal poverty line in 2008. In the U.S, this was 13.2% of the population and in Texas; the number was even higher at 16.3%

Since our agency is focused on the 25 counties that comprise the Diocese of Austin, I decided to find out what the number would be for our service area, so I created a spreadsheet using the 2008 American Communities Survey Data from the U.S. Census. It was an eye-opening, to say the least. Here is what I found.

SNAP SHOT OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES SERVICE AREA

Of all 25 counties of the Diocese of Austin:

24 of the 25 counties had double digit poverty rates of 10% or higher
18 or 72% of our counties have poverty rates that met or exceeded the national average and,
the overall average for the Diocese is almost 15%.

Below is a chart that lists all 25 counties in our Diocese, with the corresponding population and percentages of individuals living below the poverty level.

(Note, for those that have an *, ACS survey data is not available, so I had to use 2000 Census data.)

SO WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO LIVE AT OR BELOW THE FEDERAL POVERTY LEVEL?

In 2009, the federal poverty guidelines for individuals and families are listed below.

HOW DO THESE STATISTICS TRANSLATE?

Let’s say you are a single Mom with two young children getting paid:

$12.00 an hour
40 hours/ week

That means you make:

$480.00 per week
or $24,960 per year gross income.

As you can see by the chart above, this young mother makes more than the Federal Poverty Level:

$6,650 more than the Federal Poverty Level
That is 136% above the Federal Poverty Level.

Wow. She should be doing great, right? Well, let’s see. She has to pay:

15% of her take home pay for payroll taxes and her own health insurance costs;
She is left with $21,200 per year or about $1,760 per month.

$800 for rent of a two bedroom apartment so she can live in a safe neighborhood and have access to good public schools;
That leaves her with $960 left.

$350 for her car loan payment;
She is left with $660.

$300/month for her child care;
She is left with $360.

That leaves her with only $360!

She still has to purchase food, medicine, gas for the car, utilities, clothes and shoes for the children, etc. Whew! It’s a chore, right?

Every month, making hard choices; hoping the car doesn’t break down, hoping that gas, utility and rent doesn’t increase, hoping that no one has to go to the hospital or the emergency room. And remember, she lives above the federal poverty level. Yikes!

SERVING THE LEAST AMONG US

Saint Francis is one of our favorite Saints in the Catholic Church. What an example he is to us in our ministry to serve the poor and vulnerable. In fact, he was called “the little poor man of Assisi.” Francis was born in the year 1182 in the town of Assisi in Italy. His father's name was Bernadone and he was a very wealthy merchant of Assisi. Francis was brought up in luxury and gaiety. One day Francis was joking and laughing with his friends. A beggar came along crying for alms. Francis, who was soft-hearted, gave whatever he had in his pocket to the beggar. His companions probably mocked at him for his charitable act (it just wasn’t politically correct in those days…). The sight of the beggar set him thinking about poverty and misery, so he started to give more money to the poor and eventually formed a community of brothers that we know today as the Franciscans. Francis completely changed his life around and focused on serving those, who Jesus referred to, as “the least among us.” As a result of this change, he lost his family and his old friends, but gained God’s blessing and favor because he heard and responded to the Gospel call to reach out and serve others.

I often pray about my life, my calling and the ministry of Catholic Charities. Perhaps my life change or my spiritual awakening is not as drastic as that of St. Francis, but I like to think that I am following in his footsteps by trying my best to listen to God in my life. He asks me to stop, listen, and respond. So I take our mission at Catholic Charities very personally and very seriously. Our tag line reads: “Providing Help and Creating Hope.” What does that mean? To us, it means that every person is valued and loved and we provide what means we can to help someone right where they are in life and help them get in a better place. Sometimes it’s a bag of groceries. Sometimes it’s filing a petition so a wife can be reunited with her husband from another country. Sometimes it’s paying part of someone’s rent or utility bill. Sometimes, we don’t have the resources though, so its being kind, its sharing a hug an encouraging word and/or helping them access the services of another ministry, like St. Vincent de Paul or another community agency that has resources we lack.

Bishop Streib, from the Diocese of Memphis, is quoted as saying, “We know that we should give love to the persons who are poor because we are called by the Gospel to do just that.” This call comes from Jesus, who “helped people who were poor” and who “always lifted up individuals as he ministered to them,” the bishop added. “And that is our task also.”

The Bishop commented, “We look at the poor not in a way our society often does — as just one more person who has not pulled himself up by his own bootstraps — but instead as human beings who were created in God’s image the exact same way we were. We treat each poor person as unique; and when we do, we imitate Jesus.”

So, January is poverty awareness month. I ask you to really look, and really listen. What is God leading you to do today?

A Letter from the Executive Director

2009-12-10T16:44:00.002-06:00

Dear Friends:

When was the last time you didn't have enough to eat? I don't mean that you looked in your refrigerator or pantry and realized you were out of a favorite food item. I mean, when was the last time you looked in your kitchen and not only didn't have enough food for a balanced meal for you and/or your family, but also, you lacked sufficient resources to go out and buy more food? When was the last time you had to make tough choices like - do I pay the utility bill, or buy food for my children? When was the last time you contacted an agency like Catholic Charities to find out how to get food through a local food pantry or access a hot meal at one of the free breakfast or lunch locations served in our community?

For most of us - the answer is - never. But for many, many of our brothers and sisters living at or near the poverty level, this is a regular experience. Food security-access by all people at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life-is one of several conditions necessary for a population to be healthy and well nourished.

How does Texas compare to other states?

A recent survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that in 2008, there were:

17 million U.S. households (14.6 percent of all households) that were food insecure at some time during the year.

That is, at some time during the year, they were uncertain of having, or unable to acquire, enough food for all household members because they had insufficient money and other resources for food.

This same report reveals that Texas exceeds the national average. In Texas, the survey reports that:

almost 17% of Texas households experienced food insecurity.
Texas is second in the nation in food insecurity - behind the state of Mississippi.

There is a direct link between low income and food insecurity. The survey reports that in 2008:

food insecurity was more than four times as prevalent in households with annual incomes below 185 percent of the poverty line as it was in households with incomes above that range.

A few characteristics of those who reported food insecurity showed that:

98 percent reported having worried that their food would run out before they got money to buy more;
96 percent reported that the food they bought just did not last and they did not have money to get more; and
94 percent reported that they could not afford to eat balanced meals.

To access the full report, Household Food Security in the United States, 2008, visit the following website: http://www.ers.usda.gov/Publications/ERR83/ERR83.pdf

Catholic Charities Angels of Hope Food Pantry Works to Increase Food Security for Families, Children, Seniors & Disabled

At our Angels of Hope Food Pantry, we work to combat food insecurity every week. We rely heavily on donations to our food pantry and the dedicated volunteers who meet with clients, fill their food orders, stock our food pantry shelves, conduct food drives, plant and harvest our garden, and even the more mundane, but necessary tasks, like data entry to help us with reports to funders.

As people of faith, we are called to reach out to the poor and vulnerable and, as a result of our faith in and love for God, to feed the hungry. We join with the many Catholic parishes and faith communities that work hard to alleviate hunger in our Diocese every day.

Be an Angel of Hope. Give today. Give Generously.
Don't let families go hungry in your community.

For those of you who have full pantries, I ask you to consider making a food or financial donation to our Angels of Hope Food Pantry or to a local pantry in your community.

Consider donating a bag of groceries with meat, dairy, vegetables and other necessary items. This small care package goes a long way in strengthening and supporting families, many of which, have minor children.

Sincerely,

Cynthia N. Colbert
Executive Director
Catholic Charities of Central Texas

Sister's Christmas Catechism tickets help benefit Catholic Charities!!

2009-12-02T11:46:00.011-06:00

Sister's Christmas Catechism
The Mystery of the Magi's Gold

Catholic Charities of Central Texas has partnered with the Long Center! Through Dec. 6, $10 of your ticket will benefit Catholic Charities! Use the code HOPE online here or by phone at 512.474.LONG (5664). Buy now because this offer is only available until Dec. 6!

Use the code HOPE during Dec. 6-20 and 10% of your ticket will benefit Catholic Charities.

Get Tickets

View Video

"Christmas Catechism is a nostalgic hoot!"
-Springfield News-Sun

A New Holiday Tradition! Some holiday shows make you want to sing. Others make you want to dance. Sister's take on holiday traditions will make you laugh. Non-stop. Hysterically. The most laughs you'll have this season! Guaranteed "nun" funnier! From the creator of "Late Night Catechism."

Event Info
Debra & Kevin Rollins Studio Theatre
701 W Riverside Dr
Austin, TX
(512) 474-5664
December 1-20, 2009

For more information on Catholic Charities, visit http://www.ccctx.org/.

St. Andrew: A reminder to serve others and love your neighbor

2009-11-30T14:46:00.004-06:00

By Ashley Lahr

As November comes to a close and Thanksgiving bellies begin to deflate, I am reminded what Catholic Charities of Central Texas is here for: to continue to make a difference in people’s lives by creating hope and providing help. One ultimate example of this is St. Andrew, whose feast day is today, November 30.

St. Andrew was an Apostle and the brother of Simon Peter, both of which were fisherman. Andrew became one of the first disciples of Christ and left everything behind to follow Him.

St. Andrew was not only one of the first disciples but he also dropped everything to follow Jesus without hesitation. It is hard to imagine what this must have been like for him and how drastically his life changed thereafter. Catholic Charities is a light for men just as St. Andrew was for those that listened to him. Providing help and creating hope for others come through love and faith and sharing gifts that we have been given.

Being fishers of men is an analogy that is used often in the Christian community, but what does this really mean for us and for those we help? At Catholic Charities, we are called to seek out those that need help and hope everyday. We work to find those that need assistance or help not because those in need are Catholic, but because we are. Catholic Charities serves everyone regardless of age, faith, ethnic background, and economic circumstance. We set out each day to find new ways to help those who cannot find or provide the resources needed to get through each day.

For example our Angel of Hope Food Pantry feeds nearly 150 families each week. In 2008, we served over 5,000 pounds of food and grocery products each week. The food pantry also works to raise awareness of hunger, health and nutrition. In addition, the food pantry is a place for neighbors to help neighbors through donations, volunteer work or food.

Another example is our Immigration and Legal Services which has been operating for 7 years. ILS works with families and individuals to become self sufficient through the immigration process with low-fee legal costs. In the 7 years of operation, we have assisted 4,881 clients with immigration needs.

As we delve deeper into this holiday season, let us not forget why we are helping and what we can do to become of greater service to those around us. St. Andrew is a prime example of what it means to follow Christ’s example and how we can work together to love our neighbors and help those who need it.

Catholic Charities receives 200 Thanksgiving care packages to give way to those in need

2009-11-25T10:45:00.007-06:00

Generous donations of food from St. Michael’s Catholic Academy and Holy Cross Catholic Church allowed Catholic Charities to distribute over 100 Thanksgiving care packages yesterday at the 1st annual Angels of Hope Thanksgiving Celebration.

A total of about $10,000 worth of groceries was collected so that families in need will be able to make their own Thanksgiving meals.

Volunteers, staff and clients gathered to celebrate Thanksgiving and share other services provided by Catholic Charities on Tuesday, November 24, 2009, from 3:00pm – 5:30pm. The Thanksgiving care packages include the essentials for a complete thanksgiving meal; turkey stuffing, corn, pumpkin pies, cranberry sauce, gravy, and a gift card for a turkey of the families’ choosing. The Thanksgiving care packages were made possible thanks to generous donations of food by parents and children of St. Michael’s Catholic Academy and parishioners of Holy Cross Catholic Church. Thank you to Catholic Charities of Central Texas volunteers for making this event such a success.

Catholic Charities & Catholic Identity: Who Do We Say We Are?

2009-11-23T10:09:00.004-06:00

By Cynthia Colbert
Executive Director

Scriptures tell us that there was confusion, even disagreement among the followers of Jesus when he posed the question “Who do people say that I am?” After almost 2,000 years there would very likely be some confusion today if that same question were applied to Catholic Charities. There are those who would identify us with a particular service, such as the Angels of Hope Food Pantry or Immigration Legal Services. So they would be inclined to say that we are a basic needs agency, or an organization that serves immigrants. No doubt there are those that would describe us as a general social service agency or a network of ministries. But, that is not all that we are. We are a Catholic ministry and a nonprofit social service agency.

Catholic Charities of Central Texas is a ministry of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Austin. As such, we are a faith-based organization with a three-part mission of service, advocacy and collaboration. We exist to give witness to the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. That message calls us to recognize Jesus is in every man, woman and child and that we are called to love Him through them. That call challenges us today in the same way Jesus challenged the people of His time to serve Him through our brothers and sisters and to exercise a preferential option for the poor. Our mission, our values and our strategic plan are rooted in the scriptures; we are guided by Church teachings, tradition and by the rich body of growing Catholic Social Teaching of our own day.

The populations we serve are culturally diverse and our work force is increasingly diverse as well, including Catholics and those of other faiths. Because of the diversity of our programs, our staff, our volunteers and our clients, it means that we must be intentional in maintaining our Catholic identity. We cannot be just another local social services agency. As a Catholic agency, we receive our authority to exist and to serve from the Bishop of our Diocese; we function faithfully within the mission and structures of the Diocese of Austin with a proper respect for the role of our Diocesan Bishop; and we operate under policies, procedures and practices that are faithful to our mission and values.

So what makes Catholic Charities “Catholic”? We are Catholic because everything we do is in response to God’s love for us and our love for Him. Our Holy Father said it best in his Encyclical, Deus Caritas Est, “With regard to the personnel who carry out the Church's charitable activity on the practical level, the essential has already been said: they must not be inspired by ideologies aimed at improving the world, but should rather be guided by the faith which works through love (cf. Gal 5:6). Consequently, more than anything, they must be persons moved by Christ's love, persons whose hearts Christ has conquered with his love, awakening within them a love of neighbour.” Please pray for and support our ministry in 2010 as we continue to reach out ands serve the poor and vulnerable in our Diocese. God bless you and may you too, be “ awakened within for a renewed love neighbour.”

(This article is to be featured in the December 2009 issue of Catholic Spirit)

St. Margaret of Scotland

2009-11-16T15:54:00.003-06:00

By Ashley Lahr
St. Margaret of Scotland’s feast day is today, November 16. She is not like most saints who worked for the poor. She was not born into poverty. In fact, she married Malcolm III the King of Scots and became queen consort. She and Malcolm bore eight children, six sons and two daughters. Pope Innocent IV canonized her in 1250 AD in order to venerate her personal holiness, fidelity to the Church, work towards religious reform and charity. She was known to personally serve orphans and the poor everyday before she had eaten herself. Her influence exceeded the expected and had an impact on her husband and her children. Every night, she awoke at midnight and went to Church services.

St. Margaret was a living example of what it should be like to have it all and keep giving. “Having it all,” however, can come in many different forms. She did not let her status and rank control who she was a person. She gave her time and talents to the Church for the betterment of society. Like all saints, she is a prime example of how we should model our lives regardless of our place in society. In the end, it will not matter who had the biggest house or the most money. It all boils down to who we are as people and how we are able to make a difference in the world.

Let us take St. Margaret as an example of pure and holy charity. At Catholic Charities we work to help those in need by using the resources we have available to us and continuing to search for efficient ways to help others. We are here to provide HELP and create HOPE, which can be a very daunting task at times. However, with the help of volunteers and donations we are able to make peoples needs become an attainable reality. One example of this would be 57 year old Soraya. She came to the United States from Afghanistan in 2002 in order to find a better life for her herself and her six children. She was a witness to her husband’s death by the Taliban forces and many other atrocities in her country. But she pressed on and did not let this bring her down. In early 2009, with the help of Catholic Charities, she had access to social programs that she needed in order to help treat her early dementia since the other programs were expiring. Fortunately, in March 2009 with the help of our staff and programs, we helped her file paperwork, prepare for her immigration interview and accompany her to the interview for her to become a U.S. citizen. Soraya is now a proud, safe citizen who is able to live a safe and secure lifestyle while living the gift of freedom we enjoy everyday.

Featured in a UT blog

2009-11-16T10:21:00.002-06:00

Our food pantry coordinator, Meg Kee, has been featured in a University of Texas at Austin Blog! Get it here:

http://blogs.utexas.edu/hunger/2009/11/12/catholic-charities-of-central-texas/

All Souls Day... A Careful Reminder

2009-11-04T15:53:00.002-06:00

By Ashley Lahr

This past Sunday and Monday was All Souls day, a day in which we reflected those we have lost and the faithfully departed. When I went to mass Sunday night, it was a somber homily but at the same time, I had a rush of wonderful memories from those who I have lost in the past. In the Church, we set aside two days to remember those who are not here with us anymore but we there is one important factor- we can’t forget why we are here to begin with. We are still here, so we need to make the most of it.

I personally believe that everyone has a purpose and working in a non-profit environment, this is exemplified everyday. It is comforting to know that I can go to my supervisor or the person who sits next to me and talk about wanting to do something for the grace of God. I am blessed with wonderful things in my life such as my family, fiancé, friends… the list goes on. But I know that when I come to work every Monday and Wednesday, I am helping the greater good. By working closely with the development director, I assist her in whatever tasks she needs at hand and I am currently helping with the annual spring luncheon. People here at Catholic Charities all have a specific role in order to reach an ultimate goal. The final product is extremely rewarding: we are able to provide food for those who don’t have it; legal assistance for those who are trying to become U.S. citizens; our Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-housing program assists those who have been affected by our economy.

Through these services and my time here at Catholic Charities, I feel like I am able to make a difference in someone else’s life. We aren’t raising money so it can not be used, sitting in a corner of a bank, but we are trying to bring money and resources to those who need it. To those who wake up in the morning with no food in their fridge. To those who can’t pay their bills month to month in order to provide for their family. We are helping these people because we are Catholic and as Catholics we work together to help everyone else, Catholic or not. Coming to work and seeing the same faces everyday working towards the same goal is one of the most rewarding parts of my job. I may not see instant results, but I know that someone, somewhere is being helped and can make it through today and tomorrow. All Souls day has reminded me that those who are still here on this Earth living out Jesus’ words have a purpose. We must purposefully work together to provide help and create hope.

St. Gaspar del Bufalo, a prime example of Jesus' devotion

2009-10-28T15:24:00.002-05:00

By Ashley Lahr
Saints in the Roman Catholic Church are examples of what we should be like and how we should go about our daily routine. Jesus is the prime and ultimate model of who we should be as people but as we all know, it is not the easiest thing to accomplish. Saints allow us to have an alternate look inside into the Christ-like life. They serve as a reminder for ourselves and our community in order to understand what it means to be a Christian and the sacrifices we must make in order to carry out our mission. One example of a saint who made sacrifices in order to be like Christ was St. Gaspar del Bufalo.

St. Gaspar’s feast day was last week, October 21, 2009. He was born in Rome on January 6, 1786 and died December 28, 1837. Through the influence of his mother, he became greatly devoted to St. Francis Xavier. In 1808, he was ordained into the priesthood in Rome and along with other clergy who refused to align himself with Napoleon Bonaparte. Gaspar and members of the clergy who refused to follow Napoleon, were exiled to northern Italy in 1808.

When he returned to Rome in 1814, he considered joining the Jesuits but the needs of Pope Pius VII took precedence. He underwent several hardships in order to continue to engage in ministry and preaching. After much ado, Gaspar founded a society of priests, the Missionaries of the Precious Blood in Umbria in 1815. Throughout his lifetime, he spread his devotion for serving others and at one point, was described by St. Vincent Strambi as being “like a spiritual earthquake.” This earthquake shook the core of his contemporaries and he is still remembered today as a significant man who had a profound impact on many individuals.

Being part of the Austin Diocese allows Catholic Charities of Central Texas to carry out its mission to help those in need. We help people on a daily basis not because they are Catholic, but because we are. Sometimes it can be more difficult than expected to sacrifice time or money, but these are some of the strongest ways we can give as a community. Volunteering in our food pantry will help us, and you, help those who can’t put food on the table. Our clients need people who have extra time in their day or dollars to give the unfortunate what we experience on a daily basis. It is easy to take for granted the simple necessities that most of us don’t think twice about. But at Catholic Charities, we help those necessities become a reality. However, all of this couldn’t be done without the help of our community and people like St. Gaspar who donate their time and gifts for others who do not have it. Let’s work together to create our own spiritual earthquake.

Excitement!

2009-10-28T12:21:00.002-05:00

Really excited for our Luncheon and podcasts! Stay tuned. :D

Food pantry coordinator, Meg Kee, featured in Austin Food Bank Podcast

2009-10-26T12:58:00.015-05:00

Our food pantry coordinator, Meg Kee, has been featured by the Austin Area Food Bank podcast. This prompted us to begin our own podcasts within Catholic Charities! Listen to the podcast here and give us your feedback. Thanks Meg for all your hardwork and dedication!!

Courtesy of Alese Colehour

Jesus' Compassion is our Compassion

2009-10-19T10:26:00.001-05:00

By Cynthia Colbert
Executive Director

I had the opportunity this summer to take a theology course for executive directors of Catholic Charities agencies. There were about 8 of us from around the county who gathered for this unique and valuable formation experience. One of the most memorable reflections came from our discussion of the miracle of the loaves and fishes. The Gospel story reports that as Jesus looked over the crowd – he was moved with pity or compassion, and as a result of that compassion he provided teaching and healing. This was followed by the realization that their basic need for food also had to be met but the Apostles had only a limited number of bread loaves and fish. Clearly, in looking at their “resources”, the Apostles knew it was not enough to feed the large crowd of men, women and children who had gathered. Jesus prayed and a miracle occurred. Through his grace and intervention, there was indeed enough to feed the multitude; there were even leftovers to gather and save for later.

Jesus was moved with compassion. As I reflect on this story, I can almost see the crowd through His yes. Can you? Can you see people who are hurting and in need of support? Can you hear them speak their needs? Maybe some of them had trouble at home and needed healing between a husband, wife or parents and children. Maybe some of them didn’t have enough work so it was hard to maintain their housing and feed their families. Maybe some of them didn’t have clothes to wear or had illness and didn’t have the means to seek treatment. Does this sound familiar? The desperation and the hopelessness that they brought to Jesus more than 2,000 years ago are experienced today by the individuals and families we serve in 2009. Jesus was moved with compassion – and he met their needs with healing, with food and with the restoration of hope. Today, we seek to do no less.

The same compassion that Jesus felt as he looked over the crowds is the same compassion we feel as staff and volunteers of Catholic Charities. Every day, we reach out to provide help and create hope – through our food pantry, through ESL classes, through the Diocesan Law Project, through case management, and many other programs. Like the miracle of the loaves and fishes, we experience modern day miracles. Our miracles come in the form of financial contributions; donations of food and other in-kind supports and miracles come in the hundreds of volunteers who give of their time and talents to make a difference. Often, when we look at our budgets, we can see that there can’t possibly be enough resources to meet community needs. But somehow, a grant or a donation comes in. Somehow, volunteers conduct food drives and contribute their time, talents and treasure to making a difference through Catholic Charities. And somehow, our dedicated staff shows up each day because of their calling to service and social justice. And like the Gospel story of the loaves and fishes, somehow, it’s all enough.

I believe that this compassion unites all of us in Catholic Charities and in parish and community based Catholic services in our Diocese, state and even throughout the world. When we see people in need, our faith motivates us to act - to relieve pain and suffering in whatever way we can and to help restore people to a life of wholeness. This compassion is at work in Austin, TX, in Washington, DC, in Rome, in Germany, in Africa and around the world. And the miracle of the loaves and fishes continues today as we receive the funds and resources it takes to reach out and help those in need.

I am reminded of the recent Verizon commercials where customers have a large crowd of Verizon supporters standing behind them. Have you seen that one? Well, to me, that’s exactly how we are in the execution of our ministry – because standing behind us, though unseen, are Jesus, the saints, our colleagues and the Church, as we offer the hands of help and hope. I feel and believe in the“connectedness” of our work as Catholic Charities and Catholic ministries in the U.S. and in the world. For “we” are truly one ministry with one heart, one compassion, and one church. It all started with the compassion of Jesus more than 2,000 years ago and continues today. This Thanksgiving and this Christmas, draw upon that Christ-given compassion and make a difference for an individual or a family in need. I guarantee, like the loaves and fishes, there will indeed be enough to go around.

St. Vincent de Paul

2009-09-28T15:25:00.003-05:00

By Ashley Lahr

St. Vincent de Paul is virtually a well-known saint in the Catholic realm. Quite honestly, all I knew is that he was a saint and there is a thrift store named after him on South Congress and other various places around town. When I looked up saints for either yesterday or today, I was pleasantly surprised to find his day on September 27. I was excited about researching to find out who he was and what he did.

De Paul was born on April 24, 1581 and died September 27, 1660. He was born into a peasant family in Landes, France and had three brothers and two sisters. He graduated from Toulouse with a degree in Theology and was ordained in 1600 at the mere age of 19. De Paul stayed in Toulouse until he went to Marseille to collect inheritance. In 1605, he was captured by Turkish pirates who brought him to Tunis and sold him into slavery. By 1607, he converted his owner to Christianity and was freed. De Paul is the founder Daughters of Charity and Congregation of the Mission. Congregation of the Mission was founded in 1625 and works towards the evangelization of the poor and formation of the clergy. Daughters of Charity were founded with Louise de Marillac in 1633. They are a group of women who work to help the “poorest of the poor.”

De Paul is most venerated for his continual service to the poor. Catholic Charities works to do the same exact thing. We may not be under the Saint Vincent De Paul Society or organization but we work toward the same goals. As Catholics, we work together as a team to help bring self-sufficiency to those we assist. It is so much more than giving out food each week or meeting with people to help them figure out how they are going to pay next months rent. Our goal is to instill confidence in each client we serve. We work to strengthen individuals, families and communities. It is not about helping only Catholics or religious people. It is because we are Catholic that we are able to have the faith, spirituality and love behind all we do here at Catholic Charities.

If you are interested in volunteering or working to help the poor, please check out our website www.ccctx.org. Be sure to check out the St. Vincent De Paul website at http://www.svdpusa.org/. Help us spread the good word.

American Community Survey Williamson County

2009-09-17T14:30:00.002-05:00

In Williamson County, 4.5% of all families had incomes below the poverty level in 2007. That number increased to 21% for single females with children under age 18.

The new American Community Survey that is conducted by the US Census, which tells us what the population looks like and how it lives, reports that 6.2% of all Williamson County residents had incomes below the poverty level.

What is "below poverty level"?

For a family of four, that was $20,650 or less. Visit our website to learn more about the Campaign to Reduce Poverty at www.ccctx.org.

Chris Earthman elected President of the Board of Directors; 7 New Board Members Added from Austin, Georgetown, Marble Falls, and Waco

2009-09-15T16:34:00.005-05:00

(Austin, Georgetown, Marble Falls, Waco) – Catholic Charities of Central Texas proudly announces Chris M. Earthman of Austin Ventures as the newly elected President of the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities. Earthman served two years as Co-Chair of the Development Committee which is charged with providing leadership and guidance in the areas of fund raising, stewardship and agency wide accountability. He will continue to work towards promoting agency wide sustainable finances in his role as president. In addition, top priorities for Earthman include increasing access to family strengthening services through community partnerships and collaborations. Chris Earthman has been an active volunteer at Catholic Charities and a member of the board since 2005.

“We are proud to have talented and dedicated volunteers on the board of directors,” said Cynthia Colbert, Executive Director of Catholic Charities. “Our board of director’s active participation and leadership has been invaluable to Catholic Charities in providing help and creating hope for many families throughout central Texas, especially during this difficult economy.”

Chris Earthman is joined by seven new board members from Austin, Georgetown, Marble Falls, and Waco.

2009-2010 Board of Directors - Executive Officers

President of the Board
Chris Earthman – St. Mary’s Cathedral (Austin)

Vice President of the Board
Judy Morales Steinheimer – Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church (Temple)

Secretary of the Board
David G. Scott, Jr. – St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church (Austin)

Treasurer of the Board
Art Borrego - St. John Neumann Catholic Church (Austin)

New Board Members

Art Canales – St. Theresa Catholic Church (Austin)
Ruby Roa – Sacred Heart Catholic Church (Austin)
Steven Wohleb – St. Paul Catholic Church (Austin)
Mike Martin – St. Helen Catholic Church (Georgetown)
Monica Figun – St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church (Marble Falls)
Parker Pieri – St. Louis Catholic Church (Waco)
Sister Marie Theresa Sedgwich, DC – St. Peter Catholic Student Center (Waco)

Effective Communication – Everyone’s Ministry

2009-09-09T09:26:00.002-05:00

What’s in a word? Frankly, everything. What you say, how you say it and when you say it all have a tremendous impact on how a message is received or even if it is received at all. As Christians, we have a responsibility to take great care with our words, for as we are reminded in the Book of Proverbs (12:13): "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing".

The spoken, written and the digital word have tremendous power. Today, we receive messages from a multitude of sources: phone calls, phone messages, e-mails, facebook, twitter, blogs. It is almost becoming a thing of the past to communicate one-to-one. Everyone seems to rely on the easiest method possible. I am reminded everyday that we are in a ministry of service to people; the people who ask for our services, the people who work at our agency, the funders and donors who contribute to supporting our ministry, the volunteers who come through the doors each day to give of their time and talent. It’s people-to-people and that must involve effective, compassionate and productive communication.

More than any action we take, what we say and how we say it, can affect people in a significant way. Think about the last negative communication you had with someone. Maybe someone was rude to you on the phone, or a family member yelled at you, or a colleague sent you an email criticizing your work. How did it make you feel? How did it change your relationship with that person? Did that experience make you respect them and listen to them more or did it shut down communication; make you feel angry and feel like walking away. Maybe it even made you leery of future communications.

There’s no doubt about it, the way we communicate can affect how we view people and how other people perceive us. Good verbal communication is everyone’s responsibility and is especially in the ministry of service to others. We are all human, therefore, there are times, and I’m sure that each of us has been wounded by the words of others, or, we have said something or sent an email that wounded another. As a result, barriers were raised between people and communication became less effective.

In communicating with one another at work, at home, at church or in the community, we should follow the words of St. Paul in Ephesians 4:32, “Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ.” Being kind in our communications doesn’t mean we avoid addressing conflicts or problems. It does mean, however, that we treat, listen and speak to one another with the dignity and respect that Christ calls us to have for one another.

So how can we improve our ability to communicate effectively? I think one of the most important components about communications is listening. Listening is an intentional act. When we fail to listen, we communicate that we do not care about the thoughts or ideas of the other person. Listening means not only hearing the words that someone says, but also what they mean. But good listening skills are not developed overnight. You have to practice listening. Try it with a co-worker or your spouse. Listen to what they have to say and then, rather than immediately thinking about your own response, check in with them to make sure you really heard what they had to say. Recall a time when you felt really heard and understood by another. How did that experience make you feel? Did you validated and understood? Did that experience make you want to in turn, hear what the other person has to say too? To be really good communicators, as Christ intends us to be, then first we need to learn to listen.

But listening is only half of the equation. In addition to listening, we must be able to convey our ideas and thoughts with clarity and respect for the other person. Harriet Meyerson, founder of The Confidence Center, offers 7 tips to more effective communications in the workplace. I think these are equally applicable in other parts of our lives as well.

1. Personal contact is important. People relate to one another better when they can meet in person. If personal contact is not possible, the next best way to connect is by talking on the telephone. Do not rely on email as the consistent means to communicate with one another.

2. Develop a network. No one achieves success alone. Make an effort to get to know people in your workplace and in your community and look for experiences or interests you have in common.

3. Always be courteous in your communications with one another. Courtesy lets people know that you care.

4. Be consistent and clear in your workplace communications. Consistency builds trust. Asking, “Did I explain this clearly?” will assure that people understood what you said.

5. Compromise decreases the tension associated with conflict. When addressing a problem or conflict, ask, “What is best for the client/program/agency?” so that co-workers will not take the conflict personally. Is your intent to demean or to vent your anger or is it to truly resolve an issue?

6. Listen to what others are saying. Listening demonstrates respect and admiration.

7. Practice common courtesy and tact. In speaking with co-workers, be considerate of their time and points of view. Separate emotion from intellect, and do not be condescending. If you are a manager, set an example and never allow anger to overrule reason. In written communication, this is even more important. While a conversation is a fleeting thing, written documentation is on the record, and can be referred to in the future. Your words, once written, become part of a permanent record. Choose your words carefully, and avoid using an accusatory tone. State your case clearly and concisely without emotion. Read and reread your email before you send it to avoid sending something that you will later regret. Avoid sarcasm. Everything that you write leaves an impression, and the goal should be to always make that impression a positive one.

I would add another topic and that is the issue of gossip in the workplace, the church, or ministry. The dictionary defines gossip as “idle talk or rumor about the personal or private affairs of others.” When used as a verb it means to talk idly about the affairs of others. We all recognize that gossip can only lead to problems, but most of us have at some time in our lives, committed the sin of gossiping about others. It’s very subtle sometimes. How do you know when or if you are expressing concern for someone and sliding over into gossip? For me, it’s a simple test. Do I think that the person being discussed would want the information shared with me and with others? Or, if it is a commentary on someone else, is it something that I or others would say to them face to face? If the answer is no, then its likely gossip and should be stopped. It’s a lot harder to address a problem with a boss or co-worker, instead of gossiping about it; but we are advised in Ephesians 4 to “speak the truth in love.” It doesn’t say; go talk about it to someone else first.

Words are powerful. How we use them is a reflection on our relationship with God and the values we put into practice each and every day. Let’s all pray for and practice the ministry of effective communications.

Philanthropy derives from Ancient Greek, meaning "to love people".

2009-09-03T10:35:00.002-05:00

Philanthropy derives from Ancient Greek, meaning "to love people".
Catholic Charities is blessed to have many active philanthropists in our community of supporters that have given money, goods, services, time and/or effort to support our mission, with no financial or material reward in return.
Philanthropy encompasses any altruistic activity intended to promote good or improve the quality of life for individuals and has been around for several thousand years. Throughout the bible, God calls us to come to the aid of the widow, orphan, the stranger, the sick and the poor. Those categories identify the most vulnerable in our society, those least able to sustain themselves. At Catholic Charities we have an Angel of Hope Food Pantry to feed the hungry every week, case management services available for those trying to get back on their feet, Immigration Legal Services to help individuals receive services that they need to unite with their families and/or get legal assistance, and Access for Central Texans to help those without medical benefits acquire them in order to have the healthcare they need.

In August, Catholic Charities of Central Texas had a Good Samaritan for the summer appeal and as a result is still receiving a wonderful outpour of support from the community. Over $25,000 has been received to date from the Good Samaritan appeal and will be used to provide food in our food pantry, case management services, Immigration Legal Services, and healthcare outreach to those in need. We are blessed to have friends that understand the meaning of being a Good Samaritan to our neighbors, even and most importantly when times are hard.

Many people ask “who is my neighbor”?
The Parable of the Good Samaritan addresses this question directly.
[Luke 10:30-37]

Jesus replied, “A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped and beat him and went off leaving him half-dead. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight.

He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn and cared for him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper with the instruction, ‘Take care of him. If you spend more than what I have given you, I shall repay you on my way back.’ Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers’ victim?

He answered, “The one who treated him with Mercy.”

Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

Philanthropy is another definition of Good Samaritan. Some might be able to give their time and volunteer. Our Angel of Hope Food Pantry depends on the service of volunteers to serve the hundreds of neighbors that we do on a weekly basis. Without the gift of time from our volunteers, we would be unable to serve as many as we do. Talent is another way to give a gift of yourself and serve those around you. For instance, several volunteers donate their talents to organize our annual spring luncheon that raises awareness and money for our programs. And finally, treasure is another gift that some people are able to give. As a nonprofit, financial support that is received is poured into ensuring our programs are in place and that our neighbors are being served throughout central Texas.

Thank you, on behalf of those that we serve, for those of you that have learned how “to love people” through giving to Catholic Charities of Central Texas.