Disaster Relief Funds Sought for the People of Haiti

The Diocese of Charlotte is responding to the recent 7.0 magnitude earthquake in by collecting funds on behalf of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) to be used for short-term and long-term recovery efforts.  This disaster has created a situation of human suffering that the victims cannot alleviate without assistance.  Initial reports state that the capital city of Port-au-Prince is devastated.  Please make a donation to support this effort.  Click Here for More Information on How to Help.

Catholic Social Services, as the host agency affiliate in the Diocese of Charlotte for Catholic Relief Services, facilitates the work of CRS by supporting the CRS Operation Rice Bowl fundraiser during Lent, raising awareness of the work of CRS, and promoting CRS disaster appeals.

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) was founded in 1943 by the Catholic Bishops of the United States to assist the poor and disadvantaged outside the United States.  The fundamental motivating force in all activities of CRS is the Gospel of Jesus Christ as it pertains to the alleviation of human suffering, the development of people and the fostering of charity and justice in the world.  The policies and programs of the agency reflect and express the teaching of the Catholic Church.  At the same time, Catholic Relief Services assists persons on the basis of need, not creed, race or nationality.  CRS serves the poor in over 100 countries overseas.  CRS is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland.

Of each dollar donated to CRS, 93% goes to programs.  CRS has received national recognition for its charitable efforts.  In 2008, the American Institute of Philanthropy (AIP), a charity watchdog group which evaluates the largest U.S. non-profits, gave CRS an A ranking.