by Lauren Solidum
On Jan. 17, we gathered as supporters of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, deeply united in our love of neighbor.
We recognize that the Gospel of Matthew is not verses we quote — it is a mission we are called to live. And together, we form an extraordinary community of love in action!
Catholic Charities serves people at the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Parents choosing between rent and food. Seniors facing extreme loneliness and newcomers searching for safety and belonging.
What makes the difference in these precious moments is you. Because of you, a frightened family encounters not bureaucracy, but mercy. Because of you, a closed door becomes an open invitation of hospitality and hope.
You give of your time and talents —welcoming families, sorting donations, collecting food and even proudly driving the Resource Bus. You give of your financial support — faithfully, generously, often quietly and sacrificially to those who you have never even met — ensuring that help is available — always! I, and the over 74,000 individuals we served this past year, thank you sincerely for prioritizing volunteerism and extreme generosity!
This year we launched a new strategic plan. We are looking honestly at where Catholic Charities excels and where we still have work to do to serve all 21 counties. We recognize the need to increase services outside of the immediate metro and the importance of maintaining our “91 cents of every dollar” stewardship model.
Our initial projects, as a result of our plan, are the new home for expectant mothers — Our Lady’s Sanctuary of Grace (OLSG) — and the opening of our fourth TurnStyles Thrift Store. Both stand as a clear witness to our belief that every person is made in the image and likeness of God and should have access to love, help, shelter, food and clothing.
OLSG is a place where fear is met with compassion, where dignity is restored, and where both mother and child are surrounded by care. TurnStyles is more than a retail space! Every donated item and purchase help fund critical programs across northeast Kansas, ensuring our mission can continue long into the future.
Thank you for celebrating with us at Snow Ball! Thank you for acknowledging the profound impact made by Catholic Charities and for getting excited for what is to come — only made possible through YOUR generosity and your continued invitation to call others to step into this story with us — sharing their time, talent and treasure.
May God bless you, and may the work that we do together continue to transform lives —starting with our own.
