Caritas
On the ground around the world
Caritas Internationalis is a confederation of over 160 members who are working at the grassroots in almost every country of the world.
When a crisis hits, Caritas is already on the ground. The diverse members give us our strength – from small groups of volunteers to some of the biggest global charities.
Inspired by Catholic faith, Caritas is the helping hand of the Church – reaching out to the poor, vulnerable and excluded, regardless of race or religion, to build a world based on justice and fraternal love.
Caritas in Hemel Hempstead
The Caritas Group works across Hemel Hempstead parishes and, with the support form St Cuthbert Mayne, is working on two current projects:
- Using funds raised, Caritas provides financial aid to individuals and families in the local area who are suffering from severe financial hardship.
- As part of a project to combat loneliness and isolation in the elderly, the Caritas group runs a Sunday Tea on the third Sunday of each month at the Parish Hall of Our Lady, Queen of All Creation. The meetings provide a warm welcome, musical entertainment, a hearty afternoon tea and bingo. Transport is provided for those who need a lift.
In addition, the children’s enthusiasm for thinking of others and living by Gospel values has continued to be shown in a variety of ways:
- Houses – St Martin, St Dominic, St Catherine and St Rose – have chosen new charities for this year – Mind, the Air Ambulance, St Michael’s Children’s home in Mozambique, DENs.
- Mary’s Meals – rucksacks (107 rucksacks collected)
- Cafod appeals for Tsunami in Indonesia and for Yemen – both came from children’s letters to the Head and we had non-uniform days to raise money.
- No Choctober – £1,981 – was raised for the Kidney Federation. This was an outstanding contribution through sponsorship and a special day.
- Catholic Children’s Society – £367 raised through Lenten Boxes in the Westminster Diocese Appeal.