Catholic Relief Services (CRS)
A CRS program in Indonesia provides health awareness for mothers with toddlers. Photo by Benny Manser/CRS
CRS is the international humanitarian agency of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. For 80 years it has worked to provide relief in times of emergency, it works to empower and facilitate people in developing countries to break the cycle of poverty through community- based sustainability development initiatives. It promotes the sacredness of every human life and the dignity of the person. Please visit the CRS website for further information & details.
CRS serves more than 130 million people in more than 110 countries and 5 continents. They serve people based on need regardless of race, religion or ethnicity and there are three main ways to get involved. Prayer, Alms Giving, Education, and Advocacy- getting involved in one of their campaigns. Specific and current can be found under the Get Involved tab on their website.
As Catholics we are called by the Gospel to put our faith in action to live in solidarity with the poor and vulnerable, our brothers and sisters around the world. Be an integral part of living your Faith; work to bring about positive improvement in peoples’ lives through your actions and see the measurable outcomes of people thriving and reaching their full potential.
Prayer and donations can be done at any time year-round. Sign up for action alerts and know when it is necessary to contact your federal congressional team on important legislation that can make a difference in the lives of millions of people internationally.
If you are interested in establishing personal relationships with your legislators and work with other committed CRS volunteer advocates consider joining the Des Moines CRS Diocese Chapter. National Meetings occur monthly via zoom. The local chapter meets regularly to discuss current legislation that affects the work of CRS and how to advocate for their priorities in person or via zoom with our national legislators.
Who to contact:
Kathy Avey aveydp@msn.com 515-360-8996
Phil Kohler philhkohler@gmail.com 515-250-1377