Lighting the Way: Stories of Hope from Catholic Charities
The love of Christ impels us (II Cor. 5:14) to serve our neighbors in need (Mt. 25: 31-46) –we cannot do otherwise (Deus Caritas Est, no. 25).
A Message from Jesse
Boeckermann
Picture this: A family’s home is reduced to rubble, their belongings destroyed. They had nothing left but hope— a hope that you, our generous donors, helped us provide. As you will read in these pages, this family rose from the ashes to rebuild their lives with crucial help from Catholic Charities.
You will also meet Rosemary and Gary, two people whose lives were forever changed by our transformational work. Rosemary lost her husband to cancer but found hope and closure through our Burial Assistance program, reminding us of the power of giving and receiving care in times of darkness. Amidst struggles with homelessness and the challenges of a global pandemic, Veteran Gary found healing and strength through the support of Catholic Charities.
These stories serve as a powerful reminder of the impact Catholic Charities has on the lives of people in need. Behind every changed life are generous supporters like you, whose contributions make our work possible. Your unwavering support is truly a beacon of hope for those who have nowhere else to turn. However, we have more work to do. There are still many individuals and families in need of our support, and we rely on your continued generosity to help us make a difference in their lives.
With your help, anything is possible.
With gratitude,
Rosemary’s Story: Finding Peace and Dignity
When Rosemary lost her husband to cancer after 50 years of marriage, she was faced with unimaginable grief and financial struggles. But thanks to Catholic Charities’ Burial Assistance program, she was able to find peace and closure in being able to give her husband a dignified burial.
“I don’t know what I would have done without Catholic Charities,” she says. “God is working behind the scenes, and even when it seems like everything’s going wrong, it’s going to be okay.”
She expressed her gratitude to those who support our mission: “If you ever wonder if your donations are making a difference, know that they do—providing immeasurable help and giving people peace.”
We are deeply thankful for your generosity and the difference it makes for people like Rosemary.
Your donations provide not only financial assistance but also emotional and spiritual support during times of great need.
Watch Rosemary share her story. Scan the QR Code.
Gary’s Story: A Veteran’s Journey to Healing
Gary, a homeless Veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, found hope when he came to Catholic Charities in Asheville. After losing his home during the pandemic, he moved from place to place, even traveling to Florida, before returning to Asheville and seeking help.
“It was a wonderful experience coming to Catholic Charities,” Gary says. “They asked simple questions about what I needed, and I told them. If they didn’t have it, they directed me to where I could get it.”
Your support provided more than just basic needs for Gary—it gave him mental and physical healing.
“It is important to be known by name and to get some recognition in life that you are still important out there,” he says. “They treat you with that respect to lift you up.”
Thanks to Catholic Charities, Gary has found hope, healing, and strength. Your generosity makes this possible for those in need.
Watch Gary share his story. Scan the QR Code.
A Family’s Story: Rising from the Ashes
Imagine the devastating reality a family in Murphy faced when their house burned down, leaving them with nothing. With a toddler and a baby on the way, they faced the daunting task of starting over.
In their greatest time of need, Catholic Charities stepped in. Thanks to your support, we quickly gathered essentials like beds, clothing, and diapers, delivering them in person and helping the family set up their new apartment.
Your generosity provided not just material support but peace of mind, allowing this family to focus on caring for their little one and preparing for their new baby’s arrival.
This story shows the transformative power of charity. Your support for Catholic Charities empowers us to be a lifeline for others facing crises.
Jesse Boeckermann Western Region Director
Your gifts help support these local programs and services in the Western Region:
Mental health counseling
Immigration legal services
Refugee resettlement and ongoing assistance
Food and personal items for people in need
Christmas gifts and meals for families
Freshly grown produce to feed local families
ccdoc.org
The love of Christ impels us (II Cor. 5:14) to serve our neighbors in need (Mt. 25:31-46) –we cannot do otherwise (Deus Caritas Est, no. 25).
Support our mission by donating securely at ccdoc.org/donate.
Thursday, May 15, 2025
Come share your time and talents by volunteering with Catholic Charities. There are many opportunities to enhance the services we provide our neighbors in need.
Please call 828-255-0146 for more information on how you can get involved.
