Quarterly Newsletter October to December 2025

Message from our CEO

Dear Friends of Catholic Charities,


As the year comes to a conclusion, I can’t help but reflect on all the moments—big and little —that have shaped the last few months for us. 


There has been opportunities for partnerships, conversations on expanding services in response to heightened needs, learning and growing in our efforts to improve how we deliver critical services and important ministries, and so much more. 

While it is hard to believe that we are at the end of 2025, I know that we seized every opportunity throughout the year to respond to the needs of the poor and vulnerable here in the Diocese of Palm Beach. 

 

This fall created many challenges for those we serve. There were heightened struggles with hunger and food insecurity. Our communities realized reduction in available funding to address housing needs and prevent homelessness. Families faced fear and uncertainty in the face of sweeping immigration reform and changes to protections for refugees and those seeking permanence and stability. Each and every day, individuals turned to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach seeking help and hope. In many ways, because of you, we were able to respond; and respond with dignity, compassion and respect—seeking solutions and providing comfort. In this newsletter, you will find information on the many the ways we have been able to meet the needs of those we serve. 

 

As we celebrate the Christmas season, I am filled with hope and gratitude. I am thankful for the generous support of donors that have helped strengthen our service to the community. I am grateful for the trust granted to us by those who seek our assistance.  I am appreciative of those who challenge us—pushing us to ask hard questions, to do better, and to innovate for the purpose of addressing those conditions that continue to plague the poor and vulnerable. And I am most grateful to a team of staff and volunteers who consistently show up with passion, compassion and a sincere commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. 

 

On behalf of our board, staff, and—most importantly—the individuals and families we serve—thank you for your generosity and your prayerful support of Catholic Charities, May this season bring you peace, renewed hope, and joy.

Ellen T. Wayne, Ed.D.

Agency Achievements

Catholic Charities Nominated for Nonprofits First 2025 Hats Off Award


We are honored to share that Catholic Charities has been nominated for the 2025 Hats Off Nonprofit Awards by Nonprofits First recognizing our work with community partners in supporting survivors of human trafficking.


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Upcoming Events

Catholic Days at the Capital 2026


February 10, 2026 to February 12, 2026


Join the Florida bishops in Tallahassee to advocate for the protection of human life and dignity as lawmakers work to shape Florida's laws for the common good.


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Program & Ministry News

Steps for Life Recap


On September 27, Emmanuel Catholic Church in Delray Beach hosted the annual Steps for Life Rosary Walk. The event brought together parishioners, families, and community members in prayerful support of mothers, babies, and families in need—both during pregnancy and beyond.


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33rd Annual Soup Bowl 2025: A Community Stirred by Love and Generosity


The aroma of warm soup and the spirit of giving once again filled Indian River County as Catholic Charities’ Samaritan Center hosted its 33rd Annual Soup Bowl. 


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Soares Kildare Science Foundation


We are grateful for the donation of 10 beautiful gift baskets for survivors of human trafficking served through Catholic Charities Bakhita Empowerment Program.



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Disaster Case Management Essentials Course offered in Indian River County


In collaboration with the United Way of Indian River County and Catholic Charities USA, we organized a Disaster Case Management Course in Vero Beach Nov. 13-14.


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St. Clare Catholic School's Tackle Hunger Food Drive


Catholic Charities extends our heartfelt gratitude to St. Clare Catholic School, food donations benefitted Pahokee families in need.


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Birthline Meets the Needs of Treasure Coast Pregnant Women in Need


Since opening its doors in September 2022, Catholic Charities’ Birthline/Lifeline Program in Fort Pierce has become a vital resource for mothers, babies, and families in the Treasure Coast.


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Catholic Charities Helps Mother Receive Lawful Permanent Residency


At Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services, every success story is a testament to hope, perseverance, and the life-changing power of compassionate legal assistance.


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A Change of Heart, A Choice for Life


Read Cindy's story of uncertainty and fear, turned to hope. A testament to the work of our Women's Pregnancy Solutions Program and connection to vital healthcare services and pregnancy support.


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Employee of the Quarter Q1


Catholic Charities is proud to recognize an outstanding team member whose dedication and passion shine through in all they do.


Connie Williams, Disaster Recovery Case Manager (on right)


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Employee of the Quarter Q2


Catholic Charities is proud to recognize Kenda Peterson, as Employee of the Quarter for Q2. Kenda (pictured on right) is our Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator, whose work cross many programs and departments and is always willing to lend a helping hand.


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Partner & Donor Shout Outs

Paul and Kathy Leone

The Leone's, A Faith-Filled Partnership


This year, we are privileged to recognize an extraordinary couple whose faith, compassion, and tireless dedication to others have left an indelible mark on our community. 


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The Walter & Adi Blum Foundation


Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach is honored to extend our deepest gratitude to The Walter and Adi Blum Foundation for their generous $10,000 grant award in August 2025 in support of our Immigration Legal Services Program.


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The Mary Alice Fortin Foundation


Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach is honored to extend our deepest gratitude to The Mary Alice Fortin Foundation for their generous $5,000 grant award in August 2025 in support of our agency.


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Indian River County Hospital District


Catholic Charities is honored to receive renewed funding from the Indian River County Hospital District in the amount of $70,000 to support mental health services to homeless families residing at the Samaritan Center, a transitional housing program in Indian River County.


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Kingdom Chartable Trust


Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Kingdom Charitable Trust for their generous October 2025 $25,000 grant award in support of housing services for victims of human trafficking.


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The Fortin Foundation of Florida


Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach extends its heartfelt gratitude to The Fortin Foundation of Florida for their generous November 2025 $15,000 grant award in support of agency general operating.


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Volunteer Spotlight

Kayla Lubrano: Prison Ministry Volunteer Spotlight


Catholic Charities Prison Ministry is blessed to shine a spotlight on Kayla Lubrano, a dedicated member of the Prison Ministry Team. Kayla visits the West Detention Center to minister to incarcerated women every Tuesday.


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Cecilia Torrisi of St. Rita Catholic Church, Respect Life Ministry


Catholic Charities is proud to announce Cecilia Torrisi, Respect Life Ministry Director at St. Rita Catholic Church in Wellington, as the 2025 recipient of the diocesan Respect Life Ministry Award. 


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Ways to Get Involved

Join our Mission through Volunteering


View our open volunteer positions in various programs and locations throughout the Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches. Come make a difference!


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Make a Gift Donation


Holiday shopping got you stressed? Have a loved one who has everything? Make a gift donation to Catholic Charities—your honoree will receive a heartfelt notification letting them know a gift was made in their name.


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Ask a Question

Our door is always open. Do you have feedback or a question about what we do here at Catholic Charities to help the poor and vulnerable?



Submit a Question

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach, Inc.

| 561-775-9560|

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