At Catholic Charities Dallas, we know from experience that even the smallest act of true generosity can change a life. Our clients’ incredible stories are proof of the impact generosity has on the lives of individuals, families, and our entire community.
Terry credits CCD with helping her family recover quickly after a devastating fire.
CCD helps family rebuild after fire
In March of this year, Terry’s grandparents’ home burned down. At the time, her father and uncle were living there. Her family lost everything, and while they had some help from other organizations, Terry’s father and uncle were left without a place to live long-term.
Thanks to her volunteer work with a local church, Terry knew about CCD and thought she may be able to find assistance for her family. Terry connected with our Disaster Preparedness & Relief Services program and applied for a grant through Helping Hands.
Within two days, her father and uncle were staying in a hotel down the street from their old home. The support the family received from CCD allowed them to stay in the hotel for two weeks.
“It was a tremendous help to be able to stay near the home,” Terry said. “It was so much less stressful knowing we had a nice place for my father and uncle to stay while we were getting everything situated.”
Terry said in addition to putting her family in the hotel, CCD also helped connect her with a list of places to contact to help find permanent housing for her father and uncle.
“Having that list took a lot of stress off myself and my cousin, because it was both of our dads who were really affected,” Terry said. “Catholic Charities, they took a lot of the legwork out what we had to do to find them a place to stay. If we did not have their help, we would still be looking.”
For more information about our Disaster Preparedness & Relief Services program, please click here.
Delores shared she can now communicate with her daughter’s doctor.
Mother and daughter thrive in Together We Learn
Gianna has dealt with a medical condition since she was two months old. As a result, she and her mother had to make frequent visits to the doctor. Her mother, Delores, was concerned that this would limit her daughter’s opportunities to socialize and interact with other children. She was concerned that her Gianna, now three years old, would not develop at the same rate as other children her age.
Last year, Delores and Gianna enrolled in the Together We Learn (TWL) program at our East Dallas location. TWL is a dual generation educational program serving young children under the age of 5 and their parents. The 5-day a week, high quality early learning program focused on maximizing the educational potential of every young child through engaging literacy-based lessons and activities.
Delores wanted to improve her English so she could communicate with the doctors treating her daughter. She also wanted to help her other children with their homework and communicate with their teachers and school administrators. Delores wanted Gianna to have more experiences and opportunities to socialize, grow, and develop.
After participating in the TWL program for seven months, Delores said she is thrilled to see how Giana’s development has grown in such a brief time. Gianna has improved both her language and her self-esteem. She is more independent and is living the life Delores dreamed of for her daughter.
Delores is proud of her own growth as well. She shared the classes are helping her English skills, and she can better advocate for herself and her children.
To learn more about TWL and our other educational programs, please click here.
Anthony says he loves attending the nutrition classes at St. Jude.
Resident finds healthy community at St. Jude
Anthony has been a resident of St. Jude Forest for the past four years. He relocated to Texas to be near his grandchildren. Unfortunately, upon arriving, he suffered a heart attack and a stroke, which left him unemployed and homeless. After spending some time at The Bridge, Anthony connected with Catholic Charities Dallas.
Since moving to St. Jude Forest, Anthony’s life has taken a turn for the better. He now goes to the fitness center three times a week and has lost 60 pounds. He has also been taking part in the monthly nutrition classes offered at St. Jude, which have taught him a lot about healthy food choices and portion control.
The nutrition classes, taught by Parkland Health, offer residents the tools they need to prepare nutritious meals in their rooms and are designed to help the residents develop healthy eating habits. In addition to nutrition classes, residents can attend Bible studies, art classes, phone and computer skills lessons, dinners, and more. Our goal is to keep our residents engaged and connected to prevent loneliness and boredom.
Anthony has found the supportive community at St. Jude to be immensely helpful. Not only has his health improved, but he is also working with his case manager to secure employment and save money for his own apartment. He is grateful for the sense of purpose and belonging he has found at St. Jude and believes that his past struggles have made him stronger.
“I have found God living here at St. Jude,” Anthony said.
Anthony is one of nearly 300 residents living at our two St. Jude Centers, and you can find more information about them by clicking here.
Joe’s Pantry is expected to distribute 800,000 pounds of food during the first year.
New client-choice pantry opens at St. Jude Park Central
Food insecurity remains a significant issue throughout the Diocese. To address this problem, Catholic Charities Dallas has expanded its services to accommodate those in need. CCD, NTFB, and other supporters recently marked the opening of Joe’s Pantry, the newest client-choice pantry at St. Jude Park Central, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 7.
At the ribbon-cutting, Bishop Edward J. Burns blessed the pantry and praised the collaboration that made it possible.
“You really do make up this wider community of believers, of faithfulness, and of generous givers. This is really what a community is all about — to help those in need,” Bishop Burns said. “With the St. Jude Center and with Joe’s Pantry, we have our opportunity to raise the dignity of every person, and what a joy it is to do just that.”
Joe’s Pantry will serve St. Jude Park Central residents, individuals, and families in the surrounding zip codes. The North Texas Food Bank provided two grants, which primarily funded the pantry. As a client-choice pantry, individuals can directly select the foods they need as they would in a traditional grocery store. The pantry expects to distribute approximately 800,000 pounds of food during its first year. In addition to food, clients will also be able to access case management services if needed.
The pantry’s addition completes a three-phase renovation effort at St. Jude-Park Center, including Co-Work and Coffee, a co-working space open to the public. Various memberships are available, and the proceeds directly benefit the residents of St. Jude.
The pantry is open to St. Jude residents but is expected to open to the public within the next several weeks. For more information about our Hunger Services programs, please click here.
The Saenz family finalized their adoption in March 2024.
Finally Home brings North Texas family together
Diana and Gabriel began considering adoption after the passing of Gabriel’s mother. They had been taking care of her for several years and felt their home was empty after she passed away. The couple consulted their priest, who suggested CCD.
They got in touch with CCD in late 2020, they decided to adopt through our Finally Home program, which works with the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to place children in DFPS custody in permanent adoptive homes.
The process took about two and a half years, but CCD staff provided guidance and support every step of the way.
“We couldn’t have done it without them,” Gabriel said. “The staff was knowledgeable and always available to answer our questions.”
Last year, the couple welcomed two children into their home: Aubrey, who was six at the time, and Jonathan, who was nine. Although the couple said being parents has been challenging at times, it has also been a remarkable experience.
“It’s amazing to see them grow and learn at school and at home,” Gabriel said. “It’s rewarding to see how they have become involved with us in the church. We pray the rosary together every night, and it’s just wonderful to hear them talk about their faith.”
In March, Gabriel, Diana, Aubrey, and Jonathan officially became a family after the children’s adoption was finalized.
The couple is grateful for the support they received from CCD. Even though the road to adoption was not easy, Diana and Gabriel say it was worth it. They hope to inspire others to consider adoption and provide a loving home to children in need.
CCD is looking for more families to adopt through our Finally Home program. For more information, please click here.
Rita says she plans to be debt-free by the end of the year.
Couple looking toward secure financial future with help from CCD
For years, Rita found budgeting and working with her finances to be overwhelming and scary at times. When she found out about the Next Gen Wealth Academy program at CCD, she was excited for the opportunity to make a change.
Next Gen Wealth Academy helps our clients thrive by creating a positive relationship with money through coaching, education, and personal development. We offer personalized financial coaching, including access to free resources and education, and job skills training and housing counseling.
Before Next Gen, Rita was not doing any kind of budgeting. Her spending was scattered, and she tended to be an impulsive shopper. Since working with Veronica, her financial coach, Rita has been able to develop a budget, and stick to it.
“The visuals and the encouragement Veronica shares with me has helped me stick to my savings and budgeting goals,” Rita said.
Now, she and her husband plan to be debt-free by the end of the year. They are saving money with each paycheck and have paid thousands of dollars toward their car loan.
“After being part of this program, I feel confident,” Rita said. “I do not feel like there are holes in my pocket anymore. I know where my money is going, and where I want it to go.”
Rita said the program has even helped her relationship with her husband. Because they are not as stressed about their finances, their communication has improved.
She recommends the program to anyone who is looking to improve their finances. Rita said the tools, encouragement, and accountability helped her reach a level of financial security that she did not realize was possible.
For more information about our programs, please click here.
Basharmal says attending the job fair at CCD was helpful.
CCD helping family build a new life in U.S.
Basharmal and his family lived in Afghanistan until the Taliban took over in 2021. At the time, Basharmal worked in logistics, and his company assisted the American army. He worried about the safety of his children and their future, so they decided to leave.
Basharmal said it took them two years to leave the country and immigrate to the United States. After arriving, Catholic Charities Dallas helped his family settle into an apartment and enrolled his children in school.
“I want my children to have a good education, and they will have that here,” Basharmal said. “Everyone is much happier now.”
CCD is also helping Basharmal study to be an electrician. Until he can get into school, Basharmal is looking for a job to save money.
His case manager has connected Basharmal with companies that are hiring, and he has attended several employment fairs held at CCD. Basharmal said attending the fairs has been especially helpful.
“In Afghanistan, everything about applying for a job is different. It is helpful for me to attend events like this. I learn a lot of information.” Basharmal said.
CCD has a wide range of programs available to help refugees as they resettle in the U.S. For more information, please click here.
Elida loves attending the nutrition classes hosted at the Brady Center.
Brady Center offers chance to grow independence for area seniors
Elida began coming to the Brady Senior Center about a year ago after learning about the program through her church.
The Brady Senior Center is part of CCD’s Senior Services program. It provides the senior population with various resources to maintain their independence and offers a safe place to gather to enjoy a hot meal and fellowship. Seniors can also participate in crafts and fitness classes and access healthcare resources.
The center serves more than 100 seniors every week, many of whom come daily, including Elida. When Elida first started attending the Brady Center, she did not have much social life. She hoped the center would allow her to develop relationships with people her age.
Since coming to the Brady Center, Elida has developed a group of friends she loves greeting daily. However, she also loves the chance to make new friends.
“I love coming in and greeting my friends with a hug and a smile,” Elida said. “I try to sit at a different table every time I come to the Brady Center. I love meeting new people and sharing kind words with them.”
As much as Elida has improved her social life, her health has also improved, thanks to the resources at the Brady Center. One of those healthcare resources is a partnership with Parkland Health. A mobile Parkland unit comes to the Brady Center each Friday, and dietitians and nutritionists teach monthly classes. All seniors also receive a home-cooked, dietitian-approved breakfast and lunch while at the center.
These opportunities have made a pivotal difference for Elida. Before coming to the Brady Center, she struggled with high blood pressure. The Parkland nutrition classes taught her to read nutrition labels and incorporate more fruits and vegetables into her diet. She also regularly participates in the exercise classes Brady offers. Her favorite is chair yoga.
“Now, my blood pressure is under control,” Elida said. “I feel happy now that I’ve made all these changes.”
The Brady Center is open to adults ages 60 and up. Transportation to the center is available to members living within a five-mile radius. For more information, please click here or call 214-826-8335.
Charitable Reach: A Monthly Spotlight
National Volunteer Month
April is National Volunteer Month, and we are so grateful to all who donate their time to support our missions and services. If you or someone you know is looking to get more involved with Catholic Charities, we have a number of opportunities available!
Joe’s Pantry
Volunteer for a shift at our newest client-choice pantry, Joe’s Pantry. Responsibilities and duties include:
- Checking in and scheduling clients for appointments
- Restocking food items on shelves
- Helping clients shop
- Bagging produce and other food items
To sign up for a shift, please visit our volunteer website.
Religious Activity Volunteer
Children’s Services at Catholic Charities Dallas is seeking a bilingual volunteer to provide one hour of religious activity per week in Spanish for the St. Mary’s Center for Children (SMCC). This volunteer will lead faith-based activities to unaccompanied minors currently in our care. The religious activities do not necessarily need to be Catholic yet should be focused on allowing children to learn more about faith.
Please visit our volunteer website for more information and to apply. This opportunity is in Fort Worth.
Refugee Services Mentor
In this role, you will mentor newly-arrived refugee clients and families to enable self-sufficiency. Responsibilities and duties include:
- Commitment to building a supportive, positive, and patient relationship with a refugee client and/or family
- Meet with Refugee clients and/or families on an on-going basis (weekly 1-hour meetings – or as agreed upon)
- Explore resources and make connections in response to their expressed needs or goals this may include some of the following:
- Providing cultural orientation
- Providing public transportation orientation
- Providing education on system navigation (i.e., American school systems, parent-teacher conferences, advocating for the child’s education etc.)
- Teaching how to grocery shop, check mail, do laundry, pay rent and bills, etc.
For more information and to apply, please visit our volunteer website.
Angels of Charity
Archangels Men’s Network
The Archangels Men’s Network is a group of over 400 Catholic men in the Diocese of Dallas, who unite through social, service, and philanthropic activities to support the mission of Catholic Charities Dallas.
They provide thousands of meals to families in need through fundraising events and engage in service projects while fostering fellowship.
Membership is open and free to all interested men. Visit ccdallas.org/archangels for more information and to join.
Volunteering by the Numbers
On the Horizon
Each resident has their own apartment with a kitchen, living area, bedroom, and closet.
St. Jude Vantage Point – Adopt a Room
Our third St. Jude Center, St. Jude Vantage Point, is nearing completion and will soon be ready to house 136 residents ages 18 and older. As we prepare for residents to move-in in the coming weeks, we are looking for volunteers and donors to help us welcome our residents by providing supplies for their apartments.
For a list of supplies and more information about getting involved, please visit our in-kind donation page or contact volunteer@ccdallas.org.
Time for Giving
Next month, CCD launches its annual campaign, Time for Giving. It coincides with the Diocesan second collection, which will be held the weekend of May 4-5 in all parishes. Time for Giving represents the chance for us all to unite and make a significant contribution to support the collective mission of serving the “least among us.”
CCD’s mission is critical, and the need is essential. They rely on the funds raised during this campaign to continue educating, housing, feeding, assisting, counseling, adopting, assimilating, fostering, stabilizing, resettling, and advising clients every day.
When you support CCD during our campaign, you directly fund the 11 missions and 39 programs that help serve, educate, and empower thousands of people in need this year. In the book of Ecclesiastes, we read, “There is an appointed time for everything.” Now is when we ask that you take time to make a difference. For more information, please visit ccdallas.org/tfg.
Please Join Us!
Angels of Charity Luncheon
10:00 a.m. – Mass at National Shrine Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe
- Followed by a luncheon at the Meyerson Symphony Center
- Featuring Guest Speaker, Catherine (Cathy) Musco Garcia-Prats
- All proceeds benefit Mater Maria
- For more information and to purchase tickets, please click here.
Hope Starts Here | June 6, 2024
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
CCD Central Service Center (1421 W. Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, TX 75247)
In appreciation of your support, we invite you to join us for Hope Starts Here, a lunch-and-learn tour that highlights our programs and the many ways your involvement improves the lives of those in need. Hear directly from staff, friends of CCD, and leadership about our impact and learn how we continue to bring hope to our community together. Lunch will be provided.
When we see Christ in our brothers and sisters in need, this is where the power of generosity begins. We recall the words of Christ,
“I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me.” (Matthew 25:35)
At Catholic Charities Dallas, we witness the life-changing power of generosity every day. The contagious excitement of a young refugee family as they receive items that transform their new house into a home. The smile on the face of a child as they learn to read alongside their parents. The relief in the eyes of a person who no longer needs to worry about what they will eat that day. Although it looks a bit different each time, the impact of generosity is undeniably present in every one of these lives. We hope these stories of the transformative power of generosity within our community resonate with you and encourage you to join us in serving, educating, and empowering all those in need. Your generosity is what makes our work possible!
