Catholic Charities invites the public to help serve the needy during holiday season

Shoppers can add a new dimension to their holidays and contribute to the needs of neighbors, too.  Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Wilmington has many ways local businesses as well as friends and family can partner with it to meet the needs of the most vulnerable.

“Many of our neighbors continue to struggle as a result of the sluggish economic environment,” said Richelle A. Vible, executive director. “Some have also faced challenges after Hurricane Sandy, from suffering damage to homes or lost wages because of work closures. During this holiday season, it’s natural for us to want to help those who may not be able to celebrate.”

Businesses, organizations and individuals can consider holding an item drive that will help one or more of Catholic Charities' programs. Some ideas for drives include: diapers, baby food, personal items like socks and underwear, shoes, coats, gently used or new clothing, costume jewelry for women interviewing for jobs, purses, hygiene items, household items, blankets, towels, cleaning items, office furniture, working appliances, computers and supplies, and nonperishable foods.

Preowned goods should be clean and in good repair or working order.

In Sussex and Kent counties, donors can bring their gifts to any of the following Catholic Charities locations and receive a tax deduction receipt: Catholic Charities Kent County, 2099 S. DuPont Highway, Dover, 302-674-1600; Catholic Charities Sussex County, 406 S. Bedford St., Suite 9, Georgetown, 302-856-9578; and Casa San Francisco, 127 Broad St., Milton, 302-684-8694.

Catholic Charities can pick up large donations of goods. To make arrangements for pickup, contact the Thrift Center at 302-764-2717.

Organizations or individuals can also make cash donations. To do so online, visit Catholic Charities’ secure donation site, www.cdow.org/ccdonation.html. Choose any program as the designated ministry.  Checks can be mailed to the main office address, 2601 W. 4th St., Wilmington, DE 19805.  Note any designation on the memo line of the check. Catholic Charities will also gladly accept gift cards in order to purchase needed goods for its clients.

Catholic Charities, serving those in need for over 180 years, offers a wide range of services to strengthen families, care for children, assist the disadvantaged and build human relationships throughout the Diocese of Wilmington, which encompasses Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.