Reverend Larry Silva, Bishop | Diocese of Honolulu

Pope Francis has called for a global pause to listen to the prayer of the poor on November 17, 2024, marking the World Day of the Poor. His message emphasizes shared struggles and healing, urging an active response to poverty as an obstacle to human development.

The same day coincides with the annual collection in the United States for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD), founded by the U.S. Catholic Bishops Conference in 1970. The CCHD aims to address poverty's roots and promote better lives through initiatives like job creation and affordable housing. Notably, 25% of contributions remain within local dioceses.

In Hawaii, CCHD donations aid community efforts such as helping disaster survivors rebuild and supporting low-income families in housing projects. Programs like Peer Support Specialists assist former inmates transitioning back into society by offering mentoring and skill-building services.

Bishop Larry Silva has encouraged support for this year's national collection for CCHD on World Day for the Poor. For more information about CCHD's nationwide efforts or specific programs in Hawaii, resources are available online.