September | Hope Begins with Action
Meet the Need:
Hunger Action Month
Every week, families across northern Indiana turn to our food pantries because the grocery budget simply doesn't stretch far enough.
Thanks to supporters like you, shelves remain stocked with food—and with hope.
Every can donated, every volunteer hour, every financial gift tells a family:
"You are not alone."
World Day of Migrants & Refugees
Many refugee families arrive carrying little more than faith and courage. Welcoming the stranger isn't simply hospitality. It's discipleship.
On Sunday, September 27, join the Vatican and Catholics across the world in prayer for migrants.
National Employ Older Workers Week
Meaningful work restores confidence and dignity.
Through our Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP), older adults discover new purpose while strengthening our community.
Suicide Prevention Week
Not every struggle is visible.
Our counseling team walks beside children, teens, parents, veterans, and older adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and loss.
Hope often begins with someone willing to listen.
The goal of this newsletter is to highlight Christ’s mission of love—and help your family bring that mission to life at home and in the community with faith-filled ideas.
THIS MONTH'S FOCUS:
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Preferential Option for the Poor
Jesus consistently chose to stand beside those most in need. As His followers, we are called to do the same.
The poor are not a project to solve. They are our brothers and sisters to love.
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Feed the Hungry
Welcome the StrangerMercy begins when we make room at our table—and in our hearts.
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Luke 9:13
"You yourselves give them something to eat."
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St. Teresa of Calcutta
Feast Day: September 5
Mother Teresa reminded the world that holiness begins with ordinary acts of love.
"Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love."
World Mental Health Day Campaign
This World Mental Health Day, you can help ensure that no one has to choose between their mental health and paying the bills.
From September 10 through October 10, we're inviting our community to Give the Gift of Faith-Informed Mental Health.
At Catholic Charities, our licensed counselors provide professional, evidence-based therapy while honoring each client's faith, values, and inherent dignity as a beloved child of God. For many, it's the first time they've experienced counseling that cares for both the mind and the soul.
$100 sponsors one counseling session for someone who may not otherwise be able to afford care.
$300 provides three sessions, helping a client begin the journey toward healing.
$500 supports a family as they work through grief, anxiety, or relationship challenges together.
$1,000 provides ten therapy sessions, offering lasting support and renewed hope for individuals facing life's greatest struggles.
Ways to put your faith into action this month
Eat one simple meal this week and donate the money you save.
Pray for migrants, refugees, and those searching for safety.
Request Catholic Charities' Poverty Simulation for your group or school.
Book:
A Place at the Table
by Chris Seay
This inspiring read challenges Christians to see poverty not from a distance, but through relationships built on compassion and solidarity.
Family Corner:
Try a "Rice and Beans Night."
Prepare a simple meal together and spend a few minutes talking about families who struggle to afford groceries.
Ask each family member:
"What is one thing we can do this month to help another family?"
Then follow through together.
Walk With Us
Upcoming events to put your faith into action.