Catholic Charities Appeal Begins Next Month

The 2016 Catholic Charities Appeal in our area will kick off on May 1st.

Jim Campbell of the Fall River Diocese Development Office says last year's campaign set a new record, $4.5 million. Campbell tells WBSM News, there were a couple of reasons why.

"The economy improved slightly in Southeastern Massachusetts, but we also have a new Bishop and I attribute a fair amount of the increased enthusiasm and generosity to Bishop Da Cunha's advocacy, which was very strong," said Campbell.

The Fall River Diocese covers 82 parishes in Southeastern Mass., Cape Cod and the Islands.

Campbell says the Diocese is hoping to beat last year's record amount.  Money raised by the appeal is used to assist the needy in the region with basic services, emergency and transitional housing, counseling and assistance to persons with disabilities.

Campbell added, "the Diocese also does a fair amount work with the immigrant population, focusing on English language proficiency and citizenship preparation."