Catholic Charities: Appeal 2024 launches with $9.5 million goal

100th year for annual campaign, which provides HOPE through critical programs and services to neighbors in need of all ages and of all faiths

Appeal officials on Thursday launched Appeal 2024, the 100th annual campaign in support of Catholic Charities of Buffalo and the “Fund for the Faith,” with a goal of raising $9.5 million by June 30.

Marking the 100th Appeal this year, the first one launched in 1924 with a goal of $262,116. It was met and exceeded with a total of $325,808 raised. In the 99 years of the Appeal, close to half a billion dollars has been raised to provide help and hope to those who need it most.

“While things have certainly changed over the past 100 years, the mission of the Appeal itself is much the same: Raising money to help people in need in Western New York,” said Kevin Gannon, Appeal 2024 chair. “The very first Appeal in 1924 served about 12,500 people. Today, Catholic Charities provides hope to more than 145,000 individuals of all ages and of all faiths, illustrating the need for these critical programs and services in our community.”

A press release stated, “The annual Appeal helps fund more than 50 programs and services administered by Catholic Charities along with several ministries through the ‘Fund for the Faith.’ As the most comprehensive human services provider serving people of all faiths across all eight counties of Western New York, Catholic Charities’ programs and services include basic emergency assistance such as food pantries, education and workforce training, family safety and stabilization services, immigration and refugee assistance, behavioral health services, and youth and family support services. The ‘Fund for the Faith’ provides needed funding for programs that benefit all parish faith communities, including hospital ministry, and seminarian and diaconate formation programs, among others.”

“On the heels of celebrating the centennial of Catholic Charities’ founding in Buffalo last year, the year 2024 marks something equally special – our 100th Appeal,” said Deacon Steve Schumer, president and CEO of Catholic Charities. “The backbone of stability for our organization, the Appeal has allowed us to continue our mission of providing HOPE for so many in our community for the last century. We just wouldn’t be able to do what we do without the continued generosity and support of Western New Yorkers.”

The Most. Rev. Michael W. Fisher, bishop of the Buffalo Catholic Diocese, said, “Bishop Turner began the first Appeal 100 years ago when he recognized the need for consistent, organized funding for the ministries of Catholic Charities. It’s an honor and privilege to continue with this legacy of charity and compassion today. The essential services through Catholic Charities are so often the difference between despair and hope. It’s the food in the cupboard, the life-sustaining medicine, the clothes for the growing child, and the peace of mind for a family on the brink. That’s why the support, and the success, of the Appeal has been and continues to be so important.”

This year’s Appeal patron is St. Patrick. To donate to Appeal 2024, visit ccwny.org/donate or call 716-218-1400. In addition, donors can give by texting HOPE4WNY to 44321 or scanning the QR code found on Appeal materials.

The press release added, “If you or someone you know needs assistance, visit ccwny.org or call 716-218-1400 to find help through Catholic Charities.”

More About Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities has helped individuals and families in need since its founding in 1923. That need is varied and widespread – from emergency assistance to mental health counseling and treatment, and from specialized services for older adults to help with job training and education. Catholic Charities empowers children, families and seniors to achieve meaningful, healthy and productive lives. In all situations, Catholic Charities delivers support to meet immediate needs, and then assesses clients for other needs to ensure long-term success.

An excellent steward of the contributions it receives, Catholic Charities earns high ratings from Charity Navigator for transparency and sound fiscal management and is a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity. Catholic Charities also receives highest ratings from the Council on Accreditation for quality service.

For more information, visit ccwny.org.