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Catholic Charities distributes nearly $400 million during COVID-19 crisis

St. Augustine, Fla. – Catholic Charities agencies distributed nearly $400 million in emergency COVID-19 assistance to people across the United States and the U.S. territories during the past four months. Emergency help consists primarily of food, rental assistance, personal protective equipment, baby supplies and emergency quarantine housing. Sister Donna Markham, president & CEO of Catholic Charities USA, said, “the generosity of corporate donors, foundations, and individuals has been overwhelming.” 

From April through June, the Catholic Charities Bureau for the Diocese of St. Augustine gave out more than $762,000 in emergency assistance to 1,930 individuals affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The agency also gave out 387,563 pounds of food to food pantries and outreach in the community and another 1,243,054 pounds of food through their food banks. These figures represent emergency assistance provided by the four regional offices of Catholic Charities for the diocese.

Additionally, the $100-$200 million in Payroll Protection Program loans has enabled Catholic Charities throughout the country to retain employees to provide urgent help during the pandemic. “I remain edified by so many Catholic Charities staff and volunteers who work tirelessly on the front lines – often at great personal risk – to maintain the distribution of critical supplies,” said Sister Donna. “They are truly the embodiment of the Good Samaritan.”