Funds, Awareness Raised of Catholic Charities West Virginia’s Services in Poorest Counties of the State

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va.—An event to raise funds and awareness of Catholic Charities West Virginia’s (CCWVa) services to the poor in some of the poorest counties in the state was held July 19 at the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va.

The gathering was held in partnership with Father John Chapin Engler, administrator of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in White Sulphur Springs and St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Ronceverte, W.Va. Through the generosity and compassion of Jim Justice, owner of the Greenbrier Resort, a home on the resort’s grounds was open for the invited guests to mingle with Most Rev. Michael J. Bransfield, bishop of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston; Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Gayle Manchin; and Jeff Kmiec, president of the Greenbrier. Guests were also treated to hors d’ oeuvre’s provided by the resort.

The Manchins spoke to the group about the significant social and economic challenges faced by the people of West Virginia, especially those in McDowell County. Gayle Manchin, as chair of the Board for Reconnecting McDowell, is familiar with the devastation and hopelessness that is pervasive in McDowell County. Bransfield shared with this group of business leaders and investors how important the work of Catholic Charities is in these communities as it opens its doors to people of all faiths for service and to partner in services.

Father Engler closed the evening’s comments with an “ask” of a tithe as opposed to from excess.  He emphasized that in order to affect change, contributions must be an investment not a drop in the ocean.

“Father Chapin’s understanding of the critical need and his creative and persistent work in raising the necessary funds to provide effective services is admired and appreciated,” said Patti Phillips, director of Development and Marketing for CCWVa.

Mark Sliter-Hays, executive director of CCWVa, noted: “The event raised vital funds to advance the services in Greenbrier County and other counties in the region where more than 55 percent of the population lives at or below 125 percent of the Federal Poverty line.” Proceeds from this event will support CCWVa’s services in the southern part of the state.

CCWVa’s mission is to alleviate poverty, distress and injustice by providing comprehensive social services to the poor and vulnerable, advocating for social justice and calling all people of good will, especially those of the Catholic Church, to service. In support of its universal mission, CCWVa is open to all people regardless of their race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, socio-economic background or marital or family status.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to top
Skip to content