A New Home Brings Hope

“My husband and I have four beautiful children. Our oldest daughter, Mary Grace, has cerebral palsy and multiple disabilities. Mary Grace is amazing, and I think when you have a child with special needs, you are forever wishing that the world would see them the same way that you do every day. It was important for us to make sure she was welcomed into our parish community and the Office for Persons with Disabilities in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia helped make that possible. From the moment we were connected to the office, they were champions for Mary Grace. Because of our positive experience, we started a ministry at our parish to help other families like ours.  It’s essential for a parent to have their child seen as an individual and that their faith journey is supported. It is now a goal of our parish to let everyone know we are here and that our Church community is accessible.

Our parish feels like home. I know for many families; Church is a challenge. A lot of life is a challenge. It was so important to us to be welcomed, and that Mary Grace was seen and recognized for the person she is, and that she’s different. When you give to the Catholic Charities Appeal, you are helping the Office for Persons with Disabilities support families by receiving the vital resources they need. Our daughter is welcomed and valued, and that was made possible through the support of the Catholic Charities Appeal."

– Sheila, Beneficiary, Office for Persons with Disabilities