Catholic Charities Awareness Month

The Most Reverend David J. Bonnar, Bishop of Youngstown, has designated February as “Catholic Charities Awareness Month” in the Diocese of Youngstown.  This occasion provides an opportunity for Catholic parishioners and the community to learn more about the important ministry of Catholic Charities, whose mission is to provide service to people in need, to advocate for justice in social structures, and to call the entire Church and other people of good will to do the same.

While Catholic Charities’ services vary depending on local needs, the core programs offered by all three affiliate agencies are Basic Needs Assistance, which provides help with housing, utilities, food, clothing and other necessities, and the First Step Program, which provides material assistance and support to expectant parents and parents with children ages 0-3.  All Catholic Charities’ services are available to anyone meeting income requirements and as resources allow. 

In 2024, Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Youngstown served over 30,000 people.  The majority of those served received Basic Needs Assistance, primarily to stabilize housing situations, to keep utilities on and to keep food on tables.  

While the three affiliate agencies are responsible for providing social services, Catholic Charities’ Office of Peace and Justice, working in tandem with the Catholic Conference of Ohio and Catholic Charities USA, advocates for just and fair legislative polices at the local, state, and federal levels that benefit poor and working poor families. 

Additionally, Catholic Charities works with other organizations in the community to discuss challenges and work on solutions to the barriers many people face in their quest for greater financial self-sufficiency and well-being.

During Catholic Charities Awareness Month, representatives from Catholic Charities will provide a brief presentation at each Catholic Church in the Diocese of Youngstown.  Resources will be made available to parishes and to the public providing additional information, including volunteer opportunities and ideas for service projects to benefit those Catholic Charities serves.

To engage with Catholic Charities, visit ccdoy.org, or connect on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and LinkedIn by searching Catholic Charities, Diocese of Youngstown.