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September 24, 2022Called to Serve
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago continues to gratefully partner with other leading human service organizations and local and state government as Venezuelan migrants continue to arrive from Texas.
Our faith calling includes welcoming strangers and aiding anyone in need. We do this every day and have stepped up in previous crises and we will continue to do so for these migrants.
Of particular resonance, the vast majority of Venezuelans are Catholic and have shared how comforting it is to be welcomed by our Catholic Charities staff.
Our team of dedicated of bilingual social workers welcome new arrivals, conduct initial needs assessments, and connect those who are headed to other destinations to family, friends, and shelter. Often, there is just a day’s notice or less before our Catholic Charities team must mobilize for action. We are grateful for their commitment and dedication to our mission to help those caught in crisis.
We do nothing alone and are working closely with local partners leading on shelter, access to additional services, and legal advice. We are also working with the Archdiocese of Chicago and local parishes to coordinate pastoral care.
Supporting Migrants on their Journeys
The City of Chicago is coordinating the donation of new items identified and updated regularly on the City’s website. Donation sites, also listed on the website, are available throughout Chicago. You can request further information by sending your inquiry to [email protected].
We are in the early stages of a crisis that will likely last months, including through our cold Midwestern winters. Know that we anticipate reaching out to our Catholic Charities community to seek volunteers, shelter, and/or donations once we move beyond this emergency phase.
A Call for Prayer
As the weeks progress, Catholic Charities will continue to serve as one of our region’s “first responders” to human need. Arriving migrants are notably grateful for the support being offered, with most arriving only with the clothes they are wearing. Our team recognizes their fragile condition with each introduction, offering a hand to hold as we are just one touchpoint for them on this long journey.
Prayers for these migrants and those that are supporting them on their journeys are welcome.
For more information, contact [email protected].
