Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez has officially launched the 2024 Catholic Charities Appeal (CCA), the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's largest annual fundraising initiative. With a fundraising goal of $10 million, this year's campaign aims to "Give Hope to All."

During a news conference at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center, Archbishop Pérez emphasized the importance of the CCA in supporting those in need. He stated, "1 in 5 people in the Greater Philadelphia area receive the services, the charity, the love of the Catholic Charities Appeal. They are there in nearly every town, parish, and neighborhood that brings together the Church of Philadelphia."

Joining the Archbishop at the news conference was Mr. Ernest W. Russom III, President of the CCA Board of Directors, as well as representatives from beneficiary organizations of the CCA. These organizations play a crucial role in providing charitable services to nearly 1 million people in the five-county Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

Highlighting the impact of the CCA, Mrs. Heather Huot, Secretary for Catholic Human Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, the largest faith-based human services provider in Southeastern Pennsylvania, shared her testimony. She emphasized the critical role the CCA plays in ensuring the well-being of the community.

Ms. Katie Bier, Principal of Our Lady of Confidence School, one of three Archdiocesan Special Education Schools, also shared her testimony, highlighting the invaluable support provided by the CCA to special education programs.

The Archbishop's announcement was streamed on his Facebook page to reach a wider audience. The importance of the CCA was emphasized throughout the event, with Archbishop Pérez stating, "We have an obligation to shine a bright light on the struggles that take place in the darkness throughout our region and try to lessen them by supporting the Catholic Charities Appeal."

The CCA supports various areas of ministries, including Special Education, Social Services, Evangelization, Mission Parishes, and Infirmed and Retired Priests. Each year, the funds raised by the CCA ensure the vitality of these organizations and ministries, allowing them to continue their mission of providing assistance and support to those in need.

The Catholic Charities Appeal is the Archdiocese of Philadelphia's most significant fundraiser, benefiting hundreds of thousands of people through various organizations and ministries. To learn more about the CCA and how to contribute, please visit their official website at [https://www.catholiccharitiesappeal.org/](https://www.catholiccharitiesappeal.org/). The CCA is powered by The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia (CFGP), an independent nonprofit community foundation. To learn more about CFGP, please visit [https://thecfgp.org/](https://thecfgp.org/).