On Giving Tuesday we gave out cookies to those who stopped by the office to support the cause. After accepting his cookie, Father Jon finished the sentence #iGiveCatholic because “I lead by example.”
Since its introduction in 2012, Giving Tuesday has become a global movement that inspires and celebrates generosity. 2015 saw the inaugural year of #iGiveCatholic, which raised $1.3 million for the Archdiocese of New Orleans; now in its ninth year, #iGiveCatholic includes 1,660 ministries, and this year raised $22,585,131. 2024 was our third year participating in the powerful online fundraising event that is a counter-narrative to consumerism, promotes Catholic social teaching, and is evangelistic. While in 2021 and 2022, our Giving Day efforts went towards renovating the Morgan Hall bathrooms, this year, 100 percent of our donations went to lift the lives of our neighbors in the Cramer Hill section of Camden.
Fifty-eight donors raised $10,115. This total makes us the third highest rank among those participating from the Diocese of Camden. The funds will be used for technology to enhance the educational experience for those enrolled in the Center’s classes, equipment to provide more food and nourishment, and family necessities such as cribs, strollers, and car seats. The Center also provides for its vetted community through the disbursement of gift cards. A gift card gives the Neighbor a sense of dignity, allowing them to buy the items they know their family needs and will use.
In S. Bonnie’s recent thank you video to the parish, posted on our Facebook page, she expressed deep gratitude for our community’s support of the SSJNC. She is excited about our continued partnership and appreciates the time, talent, and treasure that so many have shared with the Neighbors.
Check out the SSJNC bulletin board in the back of the church to familiarize yourself with the needs of the Center and find opportunities for you to serve others. Giving Tuesday 2025 is December 2, plan your giving now – reach out to Cheryl Judge and sign up to be a matching contributor.