​Catholic Charities called to serve all people, caring for our neighbor

Catholic Charities called to serve all people, caring for our neighbor

Two migrant youth who turned 18 on April 8 – Erick from Guatemala from Josue from El Salvador — were released from Freeman Coliseum to the care of Catholic Charities. President/CEO J. Antonio Fernández celebrated their 18th birthdays with them doing what they wanted to do, by going to Pizza Hut.

Arriving with nothing, they went to the St. Stephen’s CARE Center to pack clothes and shoes for their journey to their families on April 10.

Prior to that, they took part in a press conference at Catholic Charities headquarters. Below is a statement from Catholic Charities released April 9.

Catholic Charities’ goal is to serve our community selflessly by providing basic needs, strengthening the vulnerable, nurturing families, and promoting self-sufficiency. Our core belief is to serve all people with love, respect, and dignity whether we are feeding the hungry or welcoming the stranger. This rings true of our dedicated, compassionate staff and volunteers.

Our agency’s staff and volunteers reunited migrant families separated at the border in 2019. Once again, Catholic Charities was approached by federal agencies to provide volunteer support assisting migrant youth traveling through San Antonio. We issued a call to action for volunteers in our community receiving more than a thousand volunteer applications in a few days. Many volunteers applied to offer humanitarian aid and comfort to other human beings, mostly children. Volunteers were invited to serve with us by registering through a volunteer application, criminal background check, and orientation.

Upon passing all volunteer requirements, volunteers are scheduled to work various eight hour shifts to chaperone a group of youths for dining, recreation, and rest. Many volunteers reported that the experience was rewarding as the children seemed to be doing well in a comfortable and safe environment. Further, we are extremely grateful for the hygiene kits and activities provided by the generosity of concerned citizens across the country.

Catholic Charities staff and volunteers remain committed to safely providing compassionate care to all people whether in our community, around our region, or simply passing through. Volunteer protocols will continue to be enforced for the safety of those whom we assist throughout all of our programs and services.