During the past 68 years, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fall River has been reaching out compassionately, longing to alleviate the suffering of literally hundreds of thousands of individuals and families who have turned to the Church in their time of need. As the Diocese prepares to launch the 2009 Annual Appeal on May 1st, it does so as it reflects back on one of the most successful Appeals in its long history. During the last Appeal, ending on June 23, 2008, the 93 parishes of the Diocese realized a final total of $4,296,300.63. This was the second highest total in the history of the Appeal, and came within $10,000 of the previous year’s all-time record amount. Over 50% of the parishes exceeded their previous year’s total, with numerous parishes experiencing double digit increases.
Bishop Coleman expressed how grateful he was, and quickly added that he wasn’t at all surprised at the remarkable generosity of the parishioners of the Diocese.
This Annual Appeal is the only time the Diocese asks its parishioners to come together to fund the charitable works of its agencies andapostolates that benefit anyone in need of assistance in the Fall River Diocese, which includes all of southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the Islands.
It is with a great deal of confidence in the compassion and generosity of our thousands of parishioners and friends, that the Diocese of Fall River enters the 2009 Annual Appeal knowing that our 91 parish communities will do all in their power to bring this crucial yearly venture to a most successful conclusion once again.
Disbursement of 2008 Catholic Charities Appeal Revenues
Total Received 2008 Appeal $4,296,300.83
Disbursements, Made or Allocated beginning July 1, 2008