Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fall River has announced that it is continuing its annual Gift of Giving Program this year for Christmas.

Catholic Charities officials explain that many of the children and families they service are struggling with poverty, food insecurity, and affordable housing. Through the Gift of Giving Program, Catholic Charities will provide gift cards to these families for Christmas.

The agency is accepting donations of gift cards in any denomination and is recommending Walmart, Target or Amazon gift cards as these retailers offer free delivery.

A goal of raising $17,500 has been set for this annual Christmas drive. It is the hope of Catholic Charities to provide a $50 gift card to each of the approximately 350 children currently in one of its programs.

In addition to the gift card donations, Catholic Charities also offers individuals, families, parishes, and organizations the opportunity to sponsor a family or families for Christmas. Those interested in this sponsorship would receive information about a family – ages, sizes, gift wishes- and could then shop accordingly. This year over 70 families have reached out to Catholic Charities for help. Catholic Charities also has wish lists from those staying in shelters.

The deadline for gift card donations is Sunday December 15, 2024, to ensure that families receive the gift cards well before Christmas. The deadline for sponsoring a family or families is Tuesday, December 17, 2024, to ensure that the gifts are delivered to the families prior to Christmas.

Catholic Charities has set up a page on its website through which persons can easily donate to the Gift of Giving Program through a credit or PayPal without having to go out to buy a gift card. Please click here for more information.

Those who choose to purchase a card directly should drop off the card or mail it to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Fall River, 1600 Bay St., Fall River, MA 02724.

Please contact Rose Mary Saraiva at Catholic Charities at 508-674-4681 ext. 1111, or by email at rsaraiva@ccfrdioc.org with any questions.

Catholic Charities is sincerely grateful to supporters of its Gift of Giving Program. Officials emphasize that it is through the generosity and compassion of donors that the agency can make a lasting impact on the lives of those they serve.

Diocese of Fall River
Diocese of Fall River
Office of Communications