CHARLOTTE — Evangelization, support for people in crisis, food for the hungry, and faith formation resources are just some of the ways recipients of this year’s Diocese of Charlotte Foundation grant award winners will help others across western North Carolina this year.
The annual awards are given out based on need and the impact the funds are expected to have on their local communities.
This year $54,496 is being awarded to 12 parishes and missions, three diocesan outreach ministries and one food pantry. The grants range from $1,000 to $5,000.
One of the recipients is Catholic Charities’ Murphy Office for the Far West Families First program. This program, which was awarded $4,000, is a participant-centered case management program administered by Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte’s office in Murphy.
Through the Far West Families First Program, Catholic Charities’ faith community coordinator builds collaborations between faith communities, social services departments and families who want to improve their lives in spite of distressed economic conditions in the local area.
The money provided thanks to the Diocese of Charlotte Foundation will enable Catholic Charities to provide services that lead to meaningful change in these families’ lives and helps them obtain a greater degree of self-reliance.
“The funds provided to our office by the Diocese of Charlotte Foundation program is invaluable to our ability to serve families in this region,” said Deacon Mark Nash, director of Catholic Charities’ western office. “The economic reality of the area means that every dollar we receive must be used wisely and efficiently. These funds are such a blessing to all the families we serve.”
Since 2001, the Diocese of Charlotte Foundation has awarded 352 grants totaling $892,985. These grants are distributed from three of the foundation’s 259 endowments. For more information these grants, contact Judy Smith at 704-370-3320 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter