Annual spring funds help Catholic Charities

By RENEE WEBB, Globe editor
Posted March 13, 2003

Individuals and families whose lives have been positively impacted by the services of Catholic Charities and parishioners of the Diocese of Sioux City who believe in the work of the agency are asked to consider a contribution to the Spring Annual Fund.

"In the last couple of years Catholic Charities has implemented a Spring Annual Fund to raise money in order to keep our programs strong, vibrant and running," said Steve Elbert, director of development.

He noted that while Catholic Charities has other fundraising programs throughout the year, it has become more important to reach out at this time.

Elbert cited challenges such as continued cuts in state funding and a struggling market as reasons to raise additional funds for Catholic Charities. Tough economic times can in itself increase the need for counseling services.

"Last year alone we served nearly 6,000 people," he said. "Catholic Charities provides these services on a sliding fee scale to people based on their gross income. A number of people would not receive services if it were not for Catholic Charities."

Elbert pointed out that they do not discriminate against people if they are unable to pay the full amount of the service. The services are available to people of all faiths.

"We rely on the generosity of others to make up that difference and help support them," he said.

They are looking for donors who can become members of the Father Robert Keefe Annual Giving Society. This is for individuals contributing $1,000 or more.

"But any amount that people give will be greatly appreciated," noted Elbert. "It is all appreciated."

Catholic Charities depends on spring donations to help continue counseling and other services for children, families, couples and individuals. In addition to counseling services, maternity services, mediation services and Project Rachel (post-abortion counseling) are among the agency's other programs.

Offices are located in Algona, Carroll, Fort Dodge, Storm Lake and Sioux City.

To get the word out about the Spring Annual Fund, a postcard appeal will be sent out this spring. It will go to people who have supported Catholic Charities in the past as well as those who live in the communities in which Catholic Charities serves. People can expect to see a mailing in late March or early April. There will also be information published in the diocesan and Catholic Charities newsletters.

"We try to keep costs down as much as we can because we cannot afford to spend that much money on a glitzy appeal piece. Everything is produced in-house and mailed inexpensively," said Elbert.

Catholic Charities wishes to raise $30,000 between the Father Robert Keefe Annual Giving Society and contributions to the Spring Annual Fund.

If persons who do not receive a donation card wish to make a contribution, they can send a check to Catholic Charities, 1601 Military Road, Sioux City, IA 51103. Call Elbert at (712) 233-7513 for more information.