PO Box 24379

Rochester, NY 14624

Catholic Courier/Catholic Charities Christmas Appeal

ROC the Day donations to the Christmas Appeal will enable Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester to continue providing small, emergency grants to people — regardless of faith, race, ethnic and economic background — who are in financial crisis. Funds generated by this annual campaign, which is co-sponsored by the Catholic Courier newspaper and Catholic Charities, have been used to fund Hunger Relief Grants and to cover utility bills, security deposits, rent or mortgage payments, urgent home repairs, gas, prescriptions and other expenses for individuals and families who are either awaiting or ineligible for other types of assistance. Every donation - large or small - gives people hope and helps them get back on the road to independence. Unrestricted emergency funds are needed now more than ever. In the past year, federal pandemic-era benefits were discontinued; inflation continues to eat way at budgets; and rental costs have risen drastically, straining service organizations dedicated to helping those who need assistance. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey indicates that in 2022, nearly 1.5 million people across the United States now live in poverty compared to pre-pandemic levels, with more than 60 percent of this increase occurring in suburban areas. Locally, when it comes to children under 18 living in the counties surrounding Monroe County, 13 percent are now estimated to live below the poverty line. In Monroe County itself, the number rises to 20 percent. And in the City of Rochester, 29.3 percent of the population lives below the poverty line, and nearly half of all City of Rochester residents under the age of 18 currently live below the poverty line. Due to these factors, local Catholic Charities agencies are serving more people than ever, including many middle-income people who say they never before have had to ask for assistance. Unrestricted emergency funds allows local Catholic Charities and beneficiary agencies to provide assistance to these people. The Christmas Appeal is rooted in the Catholic faith, which upholds the dignity of all people and the sacredness of life at all stages and in all circumstances.

We focus on: Human Services, Religion

Where we are: Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Seneca, Wayne, Yates


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