In recent weeks and months, the coronavirus pandemic has had – and continues to have – a profound impact on people everywhere, especially the low income and vulnerable. Locally, many in this segment of the population are served by Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland.
There has been a huge increase in requests -- up to 80% -- for assistance from Catholic Charities’ food pantries since the pandemic began surging.
And with historic levels of newly unemployed, there has been a significant increase in requests for assistance with rent and utilities – especially in the suburban areas of Cuyahoga, Summit and Lake counties.
In addition, there is an urgent need for technology to accommodate telemedicine and telemeeting efforts to meet growing mental health needs.
Catholic Charities is committed to serving those in need without regard for race or creed, said Patrick Gareau, president and CEO, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland. That has been the organization’s mission for more than 100 years.
But help is needed to provide the funds that provide these crucial services. As Catholic Charities’ 2020 Annual Appeal continues, donations are needed and welcomed, Gareau said. There is a $100,000 match opportunity to help increase the impact of donations to the annual appeal.
“The needs of our community are great and growing,” said Father Don Oleksiak, diocesan administrator. He invites people to see the difference Catholic Charities can make – and how much a pledge or donation can mean to those efforts by viewing some short videos at CatholicCommunity.org/videos.
Another video focusing on some Catholic Charities employees working on the front lines of the pandemic at St. Elizabeth Center in Lorain can be viewed at this link, catholiccommunity.org/2020-appeal/covid-19-response.
For more information on the 2020 appeal or to make a donation, visit catholiccommunity.org/CCHOPE or text CCHOPE to 41444.