This was the 10th annual "Creating Hope" luncheon sponsored by Catholic Charities Fort Worth, Inc. on November 30, 2011. This was the biggest crowd ever, around 800 people present. This is not only a major fund raising event for Catholic Charities, but it is also a time when the community at large is made aware of, once again, the ministry and mission of Catholic Charities in our Diocese and community. In this time of economic challenge, they are able to assist many people of various ethnic backgrounds in our community with their basic necessities. They assist many refugees in resettlement as well. Catholic Charities, whose mission is situated in relationship with the Diocese of Fort Worth, is a clear sign of the Church's concern for the welfare of those in time of need and challenge. Thanks to Heather Reynolds, Jim Wilkes and the Board of Directors, the Members Board, and all the staff for all they do. The mission of Catholic Charities reflects a phrase in the history of St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac which says "The love of Christ urges us on."
The following is a brief overview of the work of Catholic Charities Fort Worth, Inc. and is taken from the informative brochure provided to everyone in attendance.
Our Mission
To provide service to those in need, to advocate compassion and justice in the structures of society, and to call all people of good will to do the same.
Our Work
Founded in 1910, Catholic Charities Fort Worth (CCFW) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a zealous goal to end poverty in our 28 county diocese. By meeting the needs of children, families, elderly, refugees, and immigrants regardless of creed, ethnicity or culture, we are able to serve and give hope to over 110,000 individuals and families in need each year. More that 90 cents out of every dollar donated goes directly to provide services through over 40 innovative programs, empowering clients to become self-sufficient.
Quick Facts
- Catholic Charities Fort Worth is a member and affiliate organization of Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA), one of the largest private networks of social service providers in the country.
- We serve everyone, regardless of faith traditions. We like to say that we serve people because of our faith, not theirs. Out staff reports over 20 different religious affiliates.
- We are one of only seven nationally accredited organizations in North Texas through the Council on Accreditation; we are one of only three in Tarrant County.
- We receive over 250 calls a day from people in need and assist them through over 40 programs designed to combat poverty.
Our Highlights
- In the last six years of our one hundred year history, we have doubled our capacity to serve, growing from 55,000 clients to over 110,000 clients.
- Last year, we resettled 633 refugees and helped 89% find their first job within six months.
- Through our partnership with local agencies, we have helped to reduce the number of chronically homeless unsheltered persons in Fort Worth by 40%.
- Our Healthy Start program had a 100% success rate in 2010 of helping to eradicate infant mortality.
- We housed 125 children last year who were removed from their homes due to abuse/neglect and doubled our Assessment Center capacity from 20 to 40 beds.