By Denise Seibert Townsend
Catholic Charities
“They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint” (Isaiah 40:31).
I reflected on this scripture from Isaiah multiple times this past month. I thought this scripture seemed appropriate for the month. January is the start of a new year, a period of reflection, a time of new beginnings, and for many, renewed hope for the future. As we began this new year, I paused and reflected on the numerous blessings Catholic Charities received last year thanks to the generous support of many. We could not offer our services and support hundreds of individuals throughout the year without your prayers, donations, and a devoted and caring team of staff members, volunteers, board members and other supporters. Thank you to all who help to make our progress possible.
While I try to focus on the many things we have to be grateful for, I must acknowledge that I do regret that there are many in need who we could not help. I pray that each year we can do more to support those in need throughout our community. I pray that more people have the stability and the resources needed to achieve their potential. I pray that when those in need seek support that they are treated with dignity and respect and are filled with greater hope for their future.
While there is still much to do to support those in need, it is important to celebrate some of the individuals that Catholic Charities had the honor to work with and recognize the progress they made this past year.
- Josh* reached out to Catholic Charities near the end of 2024. He shared that he had the opportunity to start a new job shortly after the new year. However, the position required work boots but he did not have the funds to purchase the required footwear. Josh* shared that he had been incarcerated for several years and was recently released. This position is his first full-time job opportunity after his incarceration. He recognized that this job is an important part of his journey. He connected with our Boots4Work program and obtained work boots. Josh started working and will continue to have regular follow ups with Catholic Charities; he has hope for the future.
- Over the past few years, Lynn* had sought emergency financial assistance from Catholic Charities a couple times to help with her rent. She had maintained steady employment, but often did not have the funds needed to pay her monthly bills. Lynn* had faced some serious medical concerns in the past. While her health is now stable, she requires ongoing medical care and prescriptions, which add to her monthly expenses. She wanted to make changes in her life to provide more stability. In 2024, Lynn* decided to participate in Catholic Charities’ Neighbor to Neighbor program. Through this faith-based, intensive life skills education program she focused on goal setting, individual growth and financial literacy. She has accomplished several goals already and continues to work toward achieving others. She has become more aware and diligent with her spending and recently started building a savings. She recognizes that her journey is a work in progress, but she now feels more confident and prepared to navigate through her journey, resulting in greater hope for the future.
Josh* and Lynn* are just a couple of the hundreds of people that Catholic Charities supported in the past year thanks to the generosity of many. I am grateful that Catholic Charities can be a resource on a person’s journey. Our programs are designed to accompany those served by supporting them through the challenges they face, giving them the tools they need to thrive, and instilling hope and confidence.
As we journey through this new year, may the words of St. Brendan remind us that whatever our journey may be this year may we remain faithful and trusting in God. “Help me to journey beyond the familiar and into the unknown. Give me the faith to leave old ways and break fresh ground with You” (St. Brendan).
*Name changed for privacy.
Catholic Charities offers a variety of services including mental health counseling, life skills training, immigration legal services, and emergency financial assistance programs. For services or more information, contact Catholic Charities by calling 812-423-5456 or visit our website at www.ccevansville.org.
Denise Seibert Townsend is director of Catholic Charities for the Diocese of Evansville.