Hopeful Happenings Spring 2025 Newsletter

Hopeful Happenings Spring 2025 Newsletter

Welcome to the Spring 2025edition of Hopeful Happenings! In this newsletter, we celebrate the incredible work being done across Catholic Charities of Fairfield County. From impactful events and inspiring success stories to upcoming volunteer opportunities, we invite you to see the difference your support makes every day.

The Urgent Need to Validate International Adoptions and Secure American Birth Certificates

The Urgent Need to Validate International Adoptions and Secure American Birth Certificates

In today’s complex political landscape, thousands of international adoptees face uncertainty due to gaps in legal documentation. Many adoptees, brought to the U.S. as infants or young children, were legally adopted by American families but lack official recognition of their citizenship due to incomplete paperwork or outdated policies. This issue underscores the critical need to validate adoptions and secure American birth certificates for all adoptees.

Empowering Families Through Financial Literacy: Barbara’s Story

Empowering Families Through Financial Literacy: Barbara’s Story

At Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, we are committed to helping individuals and families achieve financial security through education, support, and empowerment. One of the most inspiring stories of success from our Loan and Financial Education Program (LFED) is that of Barbara, a single mother who was determined to improve her family’s financial future.

April is Financial Literacy Month

April is Financial Literacy Month

April is Financial Literacy Month, a time dedicated to enhancing our understanding of personal finance and empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions. At Catholic Charities of Fairfield County, we recognize the profound impact that financial education can have on individuals and families striving for stability and self-sufficiency. To support this mission, we offer specialized programs in Danbury and Norwalk designed to provide both financial education and access to low-interest loans for essential needs.

J. McLaughlin Sip & Shop Event Benefiting Senior Nutrition Program

J. McLaughlin Sip & Shop Event Benefiting Senior Nutrition Program

Join us for a delightful afternoon of sipping and shopping at J.McLaughlin in Westport! Hosted by Maureen Neuberger, Director of the Senior Nutrition Program, this special Sip & Shop event will take place on Thursday, April 3rd, from 1:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Enjoy a stylish spring shopping experience while supporting a great cause—10% of sales will benefit Meals on Wheels and Catholic Charities of Fairfield County’s Senior Nutrition Program.

New Covenant Center’s Summer Soirée

New Covenant Center’s Summer Soirée

Join New Covenant Center’s Summer Soirée on June 18th at Shorehaven Golf Club, Norwalk, CT! Enjoy an inspiring evening with Father Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries and 2024 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient. Support hunger prevention and social services while networking over cocktails and dinner. Sponsorship opportunities available!

Empowering Guests Through Cooking at Thomas Merton Family Center

Empowering Guests Through Cooking at Thomas Merton Family Center

At the Thomas Merton Family Center (TMFC), every meal served and every bag of groceries distributed through the food pantry carries a deeper purpose: nourishing not just the body but also the spirit of community. It was in this spirit that a simple question from pantry guests sparked an initiative that would empower them far beyond the kitchen.

Chrissa Ventrelle

Chrissa Ventrelle Director, Philanthropy (925) 457-4857 [email protected] Chrissa Harley Ventrelle joined Catholic Charities of Fairfield County in 2024, bringing experience as a nonprofit executive, board member, fundraiser, funder, and volunteer. Her career...