Testimonials
Social Services
Nutritional Development Services has 50 food cupboards and outreach programs throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Last year, they served 1.8 million meals to those most in need.
Making a Positive Change
“Many people who live in this neighborhood live below the poverty line. The clients who visit the St. Helena Food Pantry are struggling to put food on the table, and when they shop at our pantry, it is a great help to them and their families. They are able to shop for themselves and pick out the items they like. It makes them feel a sense of dignity and pride knowing they are making their own selections. They are so thankful for the food provided by Nutritional Development Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. So many people are in need, and as a former client of the pantry, I know how they feel. I now work at the pantry, and I love what I do. I enjoy working with the community and helping people. When you donate to the Catholic Charities Appeal, you are helping put food on the table for families in need. You are making a difference and helping to change someone’s life.”
– Blanca, Volunteer, St. Helena Food Pantry
Nutritional Development Services has 50 food cupboards and outreach programs throughout the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Last year, they served 1.8 million meals to those most in need.
Casa del Carmen Family Service Center provides a variety of services and support to the North Philadelphia community. Last year, Casa del Carmen’s pregnancy and parenting support program distributed 62,647 diapers, the food pantry provided meals to 2,902 families, and 54 students graduated from their Keystone stars 4 rated preschool.
A Helping Hand
“I just gave birth to a beautiful baby girl named Martilda. During my pregnancy, I started to feel like I could not do this on my own. When I started to look at the prices of everything, I felt overwhelmed, and it made me emotional. A friend recommended I visit Casa del Carmen, and I could not be more grateful. At Casa, I received all the extra items I needed for my daughter: diapers, wipes, a pack and play, and clothing. I even participated in a car seat workshop and learned the proper safety instructions for transporting my child. Services like these are so beneficial to parents, and especially new moms like me.
As a student studying to be a social worker, I know how important the work of Casa del Carmen is in our community. They are here to help give a helping hand, and through donations to the Catholic Charities Appeal, their work is made possible. Trust me, every dollar counts and makes a difference. I am so grateful for all I have learned and received at Casa and look forward to continuing to utilize their vital parenting programs.”
– Belinda, Client, Casa del Carmen
Casa del Carmen Family Service Center provides a variety of services and support to the North Philadelphia community. Last year, Casa del Carmen’s pregnancy and parenting support program distributed 62,647 diapers, the food pantry provided meals to 2,902 families, and 54 students graduated from their Keystone stars 4 rated preschool.
Each weekday, St. John’s Hospice provides more than 300 hot meals, as well as case management, on-site nursing, daily showers, and mail delivery for over 1,700 men experiencing homelessness in our community.
Homeless to Hopeful
“The house I was living in started falling apart, and I had no choice but to leave, but I had nowhere to turn. I was homeless and living on the streets for two years. I don’t know how I made it through the winter months, but I know God was with me, looking over me. The streets were getting too dangerous, and I knew I needed shelter. I spoke to my pastor, and he recommended St. John’s Hospice. The first time I walked through the doors here, I loved it. St. John’s Hospice has clothed me, fed me, and kept me safe. They have also helped support me through counseling, case management services, and anything I could possibly need. Next week I start a new job, and I know this opportunity would not have been possible without the support of the staff here. In addition to helping the 52 residents that call St. John’s Hospice home, individuals experiencing homelessness can come to the dining hall for a hot lunch every day. They are met with dignity. Through the support of the Catholic Charities Appeal, these services are made possible. People are given a second chance in their life. The Appeal helps feed the hungry and provides shelter to those experiencing homelessness. I don’t know where I would be in my life without St. John’s Hospice.”
– John, Resident, St. John’s Hospice
Each weekday, St. John’s Hospice provides more than 300 hot meals, as well as case management, on-site nursing, daily showers, and mail delivery for over 1,700 men experiencing homelessness in our community.
