Working Together To Support Seniors

Recently, one of our case managers was able to help a senior who was struggling financially, emotionally, and with significant health complications. This compromised his ability to complete and send the required forms to qualify for help paying back rent. Together, his landlord, his brother, and our case manager found the means for him to complete all requirements so that he was able to stay safely housed. We are happy to work together to bring support to everyone in need in our community.

Volunteer Appreciation Week: Carson Yu

Meet Carson Yu, a long-time volunteer with Catholic Charities East Bay. Carson lost his sight at age 15. As part of his recovery, a social worker helped him discover his purpose in life and connected him with someone at Catholic Charities. Carson says his work helps him fulfill his dream to help people in need. 

For many people calling Catholic Charities for help, Carson's compassionate voice is their first interaction with us. He patiently finds out what the caller needs, explains what help is available, and answers their questions. 

There is self-satisfaction, he says, when the call ends and he hears a heartfelt thank-you. “Be ready,” he says to those who take on this work. Sometimes he hears sad stories and difficult situations that cause him to reflect on how lucky his life has been. He realizes how much people are struggling. 

 Thank you, Carson!

Sparking Conversation About Immigration Fees in SF Chronicle

The San Francisco Chronicle recently interviewed Stephanie Quintero, an Attorney on our Immigration Legal Services team. At the beginning of this month, many fees for immigration forms and applications increased for the first time since 2016. These increases put additional pressure on low-income immigrants already struggling to afford the rising costs of basic needs such as food, rent, and transportation.

Donor Spotlight: Nochipa

Thank you to Nochipa (an Aztec word that means always) for their generous gift supporting Catholic Charities East Bay. This dedicated community organization raised funds by selling food at their workshops, with all proceeds going to local nonprofits. Nochipa's leaders personally delivered their donation to our Oakland office, accompanied by a beautiful banner reflecting their mission. Thank you again, Nochipa!

Berkeley Symphony's Sunny Gesture

Thanks to the Berkeley Symphony's generous donation of tickets and sunglasses, attendees of our 39th Annual Golf Classic will be teeing off in style under sunny skies. Here's to the Berkeley Symphony for helping us enhance this year's classic!