Catholic Charities is a non-profit organization providing program services through the Diocese of Laredo. In partnership with United Way of Laredo, Catholic Charities help families and individuals to overcome challenging hardships by providing emergency assistance. Through their homeless prevention program, they can assist qualifying clients with rent, utilities and food. Additionally, Catholic Charities provides disaster relief services, humanitarian aid, volunteer income tax service, a medical mission, senior services, legal immigration services, emergency assistance and emergency food baskets for those in need.
Mr. Maestre had worked all his life, but in 2018 he began to have problems with his eyesight. While at work, he was not able to see a step and fell. Since then, Mr. Maestre had to stop working. This is when his financial difficulties began.
After several surgeries, his eyesight began to improve. In March of 2020, he began to look for work. He found a job with a company; however, the COVID-19 pandemic put a stop to his employment. The company had to put aside all new contacts because of shutdowns and restrictions.
With reduced savings and no one to turn to, Mr. Maestre, went to Catholic Charities to seek help for his rent payment. The rent assistance would help him avoid eviction and enable him to keep his home. Mr. Maestre is extremely grateful to Catholic Charities and United Way for the help he received.
Rebecca Solloa, executive director for the agency noted, “The mission statement of Catholic Charities is to assist with the emergency needs of the indigent with FAITH, HOPE and CHARITY. We believe that all people have the right to live in an environment that is free of abuse, violence, fear and oppression.” Established in early 1970 and serving the counties of Dimmit, Jim Hogg, La Salle, Maverick, Webb, Zapata, and Zavala CCDOL strives to strengthen and empower families through its diverse programs and social services. All programs and services are provided without regard to religion, race, income, disability or sexual orientation.
With your support, United Way is able to provide financial resources to agencies like Catholic Charities to ensure they are able to provide their homeless assistance programs and services to those in need. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community.