Read a special holiday message from Archbishop Paul D. Etienne here.
Read more about CCS/CHS services.
Dear Friend of CCS/CHS,
“It’s such a blessing to have an organization that cares for the unlovables and picked us up and put us in a safe environment. The most wonderful thing that ever happened to me in my life. The pandemic is terrifying to me.” These poignant words are from Helen, a medically fragile and chronically homeless shelter guest who we moved to secure, supportive isolation at the onset of the crisis.
In my decade’s long career with Catholic charities in Western Washington, I have not encountered the current scale of tragedy and loss. Loss of health, employment, food security and homes. Individuals and families who have never in their lives requested help, now seek our services for essentials as simple as milk and bread and as complex as stable housing. Many have been helpers themselves.
The perils of the pandemic have only added to the heavy burden of needs for the nearly 100,000 women, men and children in our care. But every day, in every county across western Washington, our committed frontline and essential CCS/CHS staff bring light to those in darkness and desperate need.
My appeal for your help to feed and clothe, counsel and comfort hurting souls could not be spoken with more grace and gratitude than this heartfelt message from Helen herself… “These people are my only family. This is the unloveable reaching out and asking everyone to donate.” I can only add my personal pledge that your gift to the CCS Appeal for the Poor will have immediate impact with 92 cents of every dollar spent going to directly assist all the ‘Helens’ we serve.
Our image this year is especially fitting with the hopeful touch of Christmas lights draped above the manger reminding us of both Christ’s light that overcomes darkness and the light of human goodness. Know that your gift of goodness is a deeply valued blessing. May Christ’s light bring hope to all those we serve and to you and your family in this holy season and the coming New Year.
– Michael Reichert, CCS/CHS President
Get your gift doubled! A generous donor has offered $10,000 to inspire new donors to CCS. The first 100 gifts of at least $100 from new households will be matched! We know this year has been challenging for each of us. Your gift, no matter the amount, will help bring “hope and light” to our neighbors in need. Thank you!
