A Principal’s Letter: The Impact You Made This Year

At St. John the Baptist School in South Bend, we see every day how Catholic Charities meets families where they are—with compassion, dignity, and faith. Many of our school families have turned to Catholic Charities for counseling, food support, and Christmas assistance during difficult seasons. These acts of kindness have brought tremendous relief and reminded the 70% of our families who are not Catholic that they are not alone — that our faith community truly surrounds them with care.

When I became principal, I quickly realized that many of our students were struggling emotionally. They wanted to learn, but so many had difficulty regulating their feelings. Our teachers were trying their best, but we needed more — someone who could focus on walking with our students through their struggles.

That’s when Catholic Charities stepped in. Through their school-based counseling program, we were blessed to welcome trained, faith-informed counselors right into our school building. Over the past four years, each counselor has created a space where students feel safe, supported, and loved.

Having a counselor who shares our Catholic values has been transformative. Even though many of our students are not Catholic, our counselor’s faith-based approach helps every child recognize their God-given worth. They model compassion, forgiveness, and hope in a way that deepens our school’s mission.

I’ve seen the difference firsthand. When one of our students once expressed a desire to harm himself, Catholic Charities’ counselor responded immediately. She listened, assessed, and partnered with his family to ensure his safety. Now, when he walks into school and says, “Good morning,” it truly feels like a good morning.

The presence of a counselor has also lifted up our teachers and families. Teachers can request whole-class lessons that address behaviors like bullying. Parents who were once hesitant about counseling now express deep gratitude for the compassion and guidance Catholic Charities provides. The entire community feels the difference—students are calmer, teachers feel supported, and families are communicating more openly.

To the donors of Catholic Charities, please know that your generosity is what makes all of this possible. Catholic Charities doesn’t just meet one need—it meets the whole person with faith, love, and professional care. When you give, you are helping not just our school family, but also Catholic schools across the Diocese provide a safe place for children to grow.

On behalf of our entire St. John the Baptist community—students, teachers, and families—thank you. Your gift brings light into classrooms, homes, and hearts. And that light changes everything.

With deep gratitude,

Shannon Jones
Principal
St. John the Baptist School – South Bend