Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

As Christmas approaches, local Catholic agencies in Louisville have organized efforts to distribute toys and clothing to children in need. On December 15, St. Vincent de Paul hosted its annual Santa Shop at the Family Resource Center on Preston Street. The event was accompanied by Christmas music performed by a trio from the Louisville Orchestra. Over 1,000 children from more than 400 families received gifts with the assistance of around 200 volunteers.

Meanwhile, across town at Arcade Baptist Church, youth from Archdiocese of Louisville parishes and schools sorted through donated items for Catholic Charities of Louisville's clients. The initiative, known as "Presents with a Purpose," supports various programs under Catholic Charities, including Sister Visitor Center, Migration and Refugee Service, Community Support Services, and the Bakhita Anti-Human Trafficking program.

According to Catholic Charities, over 500 children from more than 200 families benefited from this year's distribution during the week of December 16.