Urgent Call for Support: Help Us Protect Our Community's Most Vulnerable

Dear Friends, Donors, and Supporters,

In recent weeks, our community and nation have faced unprecedented challenges due to new Executive Orders impacting the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program and foreign aid. The freezing of crucial funds poses a critical threat to Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas and our ability to continue serving those in need.

The United States government determines who is eligible to enter the country and what services they are eligible to receive. Catholic Charities contracts with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and the Kansas Office for Refugees (KSOR) to provide these services, as designated by the government. We fulfilled our responsibilities by delivering essential services to refugees in southwest Kansas, confident that we would be reimbursed by the USCCB and KSOR, who receive funding from the government.

Since the Executive Orders were issued in January, however, USCCB and KSOR have not been able to access previously guaranteed funds. This means they are unable to draw down the funds needed to reimburse us for the services we have already provided. As a result, Catholic Charities is now in a critical financial position due to the funding freeze. This situation threatens our entire agency and our ability to provide essential services to anyone who is in need, not just refugees.

Beyond those who are vulnerable and facing hardship, the funding freeze also threatens the stability of our entire community. When someone faces homelessness or struggles to pay rent and utilities, our support ensures landlords receive their dues, utility companies are paid, and employers have their workforce intact. By assisting those in need, we contribute to the stability and strength of our entire community so that one person’s vulnerability does not extend to another.

Today, we reach out with an urgent appeal. We are hopeful that our partners will soon be able to access previously guaranteed funds in order to reimburse Catholic Charities for services rendered. In the meantime, your financial assistance is critical for our agency's survival and the continuation of our vital services. If you value the services and stability we provide to the community, please make a donation to help us bridge this gap. Please donate now. If you prefer, you can also send a check to Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas, 804 N 2nd Ave., Dodge City, KS 67801. If you have questions or you would like to know more, please contact me at 620-227-1588, or by email at DSnapp@CatholicCharitiesSWKS.org.

Moreover, we urge you to reflect on and take action to support and protect the most vulnerable among us. Your advocacy is essential in ensuring that their voices are heard, and their needs are met.

Please join us in rising to this challenge with compassion and commitment, echoing the teachings of the Gospel and our shared values. By standing in solidarity, we can continue to build a community that reflects the love and dignity each person deserves.

Thank you for your continued support and generosity.

Sincerely,

Debbie Snapp, Executive Director
Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas