WINSTON-SALEM — Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte held a successful “Partners in Hope” virtual fundraiser March 11.
The fundraiser – a critical source of support for Catholic Charities in the Triad – was held online this year due to public health restrictions with in-person gatherings. Through the virtual event, people were able to gather online to celebrate and support Catholic Charities’ work in Forsyth, Guilford and surrounding counties.
At the outset of the event, an interesting challenge was presented to viewers when sponsors pledged to match donations from viewers, dollar for dollar, up to $142,500. As of press time, more than 300 donors have risen to that challenge and event organizers report Catholic Charities is within striking distance of their goal.
Highlights of the Partners in Hope virtual fundraiser included an invocation by Bishop Peter Jugis, a keynote address from Father John Eckert, pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury, and a closing message and prayer by Monsignor Patrick Winslow, vicar general and chancellor.
Dr. Gerard Carter, Catholic Charities’ executive director and CEO, reported from outside the food pantry at the Piedmont Triad office in Winston-Salem, sharing the good news of the successful efforts to serve the community during the COVID-19 pandemic when traditional methods of outreach were unavailable.
“Being a COVID world, everything pivoted last March without missing a beat. We now bring food to people in their cars to keep everyone safe,” Carter said.
He also shared how mental health counseling services were able to continue as “telehealth” using a secure and confidential online platform.
“Counseling is typically provided face to face. When all of a sudden we couldn’t do that any longer, that business as usual couldn’t be usual any longer,” Catholic Charities pivoted to digital technology, he said. “We are now able to provide the same high-quality level of counseling with a licensed therapist regardless of where you live in the area.”
Carter also shared that Catholic Charities provided substantial assistance over the past year to people financially impacted by the pandemic, especially those needing rent and utility assistance.
Becky DuBois, director of Catholic Charities’ Piedmont Triad regional office, said of the successful fundraiser, “I am always humbled by and appreciative of the generosity of the sponsors and donors of Partners in Hope.”
“Catholic Charities would not be able to provide food and baby clothing, counseling services, financial assistance, case management services, support for community college students and so much more without the ongoing support of the sponsors and donors who are truly our partners in providing hope to the many people who come to Catholic Charities when in need. On behalf of the individuals and families we are privileged to serve, I thank you,” DuBois said.
Also during the March 11 event, the 2021 Bishop William G. Curlin Partners in Hope Award was given to Father Michael Buttner, retired pastor of Holy Family Church in Clemmons.
— SueAnn Howell, Senior reporter
View and donate
At www.ccpartnersinhope.org: Missed the virtual Partners in Hope event March 11? It’s not too late to help!
Go online to watch the program and learn how you can support the work of Catholic Charities in the Triad.