Funds from upcoming CCHD collection can give a ‘hand up’ to those in need

The way Brenda Rascher sees it, the call to serve those in need is based on the concept of “two feet” with one foot being for charity – a handout – and the other for social justice – a “hand up.”

“Most of the services being provided fall to the charity category,” such as food pantries, clothing, utility and rental assistance, said Rascher, diocesan executive director of Catholic Social Services.

“While this is an incredibly important foot that aims to help stabilize a person in need, we should not forget that it is difficult to walk on one foot.”

Rascher made this point while reflecting on the Catholic Campaign for Human Development annual national collection, to be taken up in parishes the weekend of Nov. 15-16.

CCHD, the U.S. Catholic bishops’ domestic anti-poverty program, aims to break the cycle of poverty by empowering low-income individuals to engage in decisions that affect their lives, families and communities. Of the amount collected, 75 percent is sent to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ national CCHD office for grants and programs that foster hope in communities across the country. The remaining 25 percent is retained by each Diocese to support local anti-poverty projects. Read more HERE.