The Archdiocese of Philadelphia is set to begin the 50th annual Rice Bowl initiative, a Lenten almsgiving program organized by Catholic Relief Services (CRS). The program aims to encourage individuals of all ages to engage in prayer, fasting, and charitable giving.

The event will take place on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the auditorium of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Center located at 222 North 17th Street in Philadelphia.

Most Reverend John J. McIntyre, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will lead the ceremony and bless the cardboard Rice Bowl containers used for donations. Ms. Anne H. Ayella, CRS Diocesan Director, will discuss the global impact of the Rice Bowl initiative.

Ms. Lizanne Hagedorn, Executive Director of Nutritional Development Services (NDS), an agency that provides food assistance across Greater Philadelphia and benefits from Rice Bowl contributions, will speak about its local impact on hunger relief efforts. Additionally, Ms. Jackie DiPasquale from the Patrician Society will provide testimony regarding their work with economically disadvantaged individuals and families.

Catholic Relief Services serves as the official international humanitarian agency for the Catholic community in the United States. It focuses on improving lives through various humanitarian programs aimed at aiding poor and vulnerable families.

For more information about CRS' Rice Bowl initiative, visit http://www.crsricebowl.org/.