As the Feb. 20-21 in-pew weekend for the Catholic Charities’ 2021 Annual Appeal approaches, information will be shared with parishioners on multiple platforms, including church bulletins, online messages, email, social media and more.
“Love Your Neighbor,” this year’s appeal theme, takes on a greater urgency because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Many people are struggling as a result of the pandemic. Some are unemployed or underemployed, which impacts their ability to provide food, housing and other necessities for themselves and their families. Others are struggling with health issues and isolation, including the elderly and those with disabilities.
“As Christians, we must be generous. That is the Lord’s call to us, and I would suggest that Catholic Charities is the best way we can be generous with the blessings the Lord has given to us,” said Bishop Edward Malesic.
For more than a century, Catholic Charities Diocese of Cleveland has provided help, created hope and served people of every race and religion throughout the eight-county Diocese of Cleveland. It is one of the largest comprehensive health and human services organizations in the region, impacting the lives of more than 400,000 people annually. Catholic Charities agencies strive to live their mission, reaching out to help and love their neighbors, wherever they may be.
Father Walt Jenne, recently retired pastor of St. Basil the Great Parish in Brecksville and former director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Cleveland, said a generous benefactor has pledged to match donations to this year’s appeal up to $1 million, which will double the impact of gifts.
“What a great gift in a time of great need,” Father Jenne said.
The Catholic Community Foundation, which coordinates the appeal, said efforts were made to ensure that donors can give safely despite the pandemic. Donations can be made securely online at CatholicCommunity.org, through your parish, by mail, by using the new QR code available on fundraising literature and at parishes, or text to give by texting CCHOPE to 4144.
Because of the stimulus package approved by Congress, all donations to Catholic Charities up to $300 for individuals or $600 for married couples are tax-deductible, even for those who don’t itemize their taxes.
Anyone with questions or needing assistance in making an online donation should contact Debra Sudy, dsudy@catholiccommunity.org or 216-696-6525, Ext. 3760. Donations can be mailed to: Catholic Community Foundation, Attn.: Madelyn Zone, 1404 E. Ninth St., Cleveland. Ohio 44114.