Catholic Charities carries out the social mission of the Catholic Church in Northwest Florida by serving and advocating for vulnerable families and individuals of any race, religion, or national origin. Eighty percent of those served are not Catholic, thirty seven percent are Protestant, and the rest are unchurched. Through the generosity of local businesses, individuals and the ecumenical work of area churches, the Fort Walton Beach Regional Office of Catholic Charities has assisted 25,000 families and individuals through 2010. The following services were provided: fully accredited adoption, licensed family therapy, post traumatic stress therapy, budget and parenting skills, as well as assistance with rent, utilities, medical and dental care, transportation and temporary housing.
Since our beginnings in 1928, Catholic Charities has met the adoption needs of this community and assisted the working poor who most often are single mothers. This year entire families are seeking assistance as they lose their homes and find themselves living in cars or with friends. In 2009, Catholic Charities food pantry was certified by USDA allowing us to purchase food through USDA for a much greater value. This year, our mission distributed over 250,000 pounds of food in our community. We continue sponsoring Crown Ministries, a program that teaches the Christian principles of financial management instructing every income level how to live within their means.
Through our doors each day we see individuals with medical needs, serious dental problems, housing and utility needs. We assist young women with unwanted pregnancies by placing those children with couples who have prayed for a child to adopt. Catholic Charities encounters a large veteran population that does not know how to find the necessary services to meet their unique needs. As these service members return from war and our community remains without a day Vet Center, Catholic Charities will continue to serve their needs.
Catholic Charities thanks God for you and for the work that we are privileged to do in His name. Please partner with us as many in our community face hunger and despair.
Mother Teresa said, “The fruit of the love of Christ is faith. The fruit of faith is service.” Together we can make a difference through strengthening families by shining the light of Christ in our community, one family at a time.
