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Our Meals on Wheels Program has been a beacon of hope for seniors, especially since the onset of COVID-19. Often, our dedicated staff members and volunteers are the only social contact our seniors have. During the month of March we will be joining with Meals on Wheels chapters throughout the country in celebrating our impactful work.

For over 55 years, the Department for Persons with Disabilities has provided help and created hope for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Developmental Disability Awareness Month is an opportunity to promote respect for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and to increase awareness.

Help raise funds and awareness for DPD this Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month by participating in the John's Crazy Socks Fundraiser!

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson stands with and prays for the people of Turkey and Syria. As relief efforts continue to evolve, we may directly assist with these efforts. For now, if you are looking to help, please reach out to our sister agency Catholic Relief Services.

Don't miss our Winter edition of Catholic Charities Connections! In it, read about our 2022 year in review; and news from throughout DPD, Straight and Narrow and CFCS. Click here to read the Winter, 2023, Catholic Charities Connections!

After a multi-year hiatus the Murray House Dinner Dance is back to support, recognize and honor people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and those who make a difference in their lives. Join us on February 19th at the Brownstone in Paterson

It is always difficult to find the words to best express our gratitude for the truly humbling way you have supported Catholic Charities. We cannot thank you enough for your kindness during this unprecedented time. Together, we accomplished some amazing things:

Over 200 new and gently worn winter coats were donated to the Halfway House and Long Term Residential Programs at Straight and Narrow. A non-profit group based in Ridgewood, the Kelly Creegan Memorial Fund made it all possible.

Bob Jacob passed away suddenly and tragically on June 12, 2022. He was the Executive Director of Catholic Family and Community Services at the time of his passing. Through the generosity, leadership, and kindness of Bob's family Catholic Charities has proudly created the Bob Jacob Unmet Needs Fund.

Donate or learn more about the many ways you can support Catholic Charities this #GivingTuesday!

With the Christmas Season upon us, the Beacon will once again be hosting the Christmas Sharing Fund. Over the more than three-decade history of the Christmas Sharing Fund, more than $770,000 in donations and gift cards have come in from individual readers, parishes, community organizations

Our first in person gala in 3 years! The Meadow Wood, Randolph - click here to donate and learn more.

Hurricane Ian struck the west coast of Florida with monstrous winds and flooding rains that have left millions without power and many without drinkable water. Catholic Charities and Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel Parish are there to help

Direct Support Professional Recognition Week (September 11-17, 2022) is a great opportunity to highlight the dedicated, innovative direct support workforce that is the heart and soul of supports for people with disabilities. 

Straight and Narrow is the largest nonprofit treatment center providing a full continuum of care for women and men in recovery in the country. We are proud to recognize National Recovery Month. Thank you to Dr. Ed Reading for leading  3 informational sessions for families, parishes and communities looking to learn more about addictive disorders.

On November 10th, join us for our first live Caritas Gala in 3 years. This event will be a celebration of our ministry and an opportunity to give thanks to those who help us carry out our mission. Your support will make a difference in the lives of many!

We regret to inform you of the sudden passing of Fr. Matt Twiggs, former Pastor of both St. Thomas the Apostle Parish (Oak Ridge) and St. John Vianney Parish (Stockholm). Fr. Matt was a dear friend to the Department for Persons with Disabilities and all of Catholic Charities.

Thank you to correspondent, Raven Santana and NJ PBS for featuring this story on the impact of inflation. PBS came out to visit our Fr. English Food Pantry in Paterson.

Summer is a time for fun, family, and friendship. Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson continues to operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We thank the many who help during summer months and throughout the year. Read this as you travel or relax at home to learn more about what we do, our history, and recent news.

Fr. Werhlen was a leader, visionary, and the founder of the Department for Persons with Disabilities.  He will be missed, but his legacy will live on through the work of DPD.