Catholic Charities Connect - August 2024 Edition

August 2024

Drawing by Melany, age 5

At Catholic Charities, we know back to school is an exciting time. A new school year promises a fresh start with opportunities to learn, make friends and get involved in the community. But it’s also a time when students and families need resources more than ever. Through programs like Westside Head Start and North Star Youth Partnership, Catholic Charities ensures that students begin their education with a strong foundation and continue to see this level of support well into their teenage years.

In this issue, you’ll hear about a generous donation from the BHHS Legacy Foundation and see tips on effective communication between teens and parents. You’ll also read about our partner Southwest Gas, who provided a thoughtful donation to our programs. We’ll wrap up this issue with our new Community Re-Entry video and some ways you can support our programs this back-to-school season.

BHHS Legacy Foundation Has Students’ Backs

This year, the BHHS Legacy Foundation donated over 500 backpacks to our programs through its Legacy Connection's Backpack Buddies program in collaboration with corporate and community sponsors. The backpacks contain school supplies and health and hygiene items to help students feel prepared and confident for the upcoming school year.

The recipients of the backpacks include Catholic Charities programs such as Westside Head Start, North Star Youth Partnership, foster care, family shelters, affordable housing communities, and the Emergency Santa program. Thank you, BHHS Legacy Foundation, for ensuring our youth are well prepared for the school year. We are so grateful for your ongoing partnership and generosity!

Start the School Year with Effective Communication

Having a conversation with your teen can seem daunting and overwhelming. You're not alone and your teen likely feels the same way. North Star Youth Partnership, a program of Catholic Charities, is here to help! North Star engages youth ages 11-18 through educational, recreational, leadership and service-learning opportunities in its mission to value youth and empower them to be healthy, self-assured individuals that make a difference in their communities.

There are some strategies you can use to help things go smoothly when talking with your teen. Read more about how you can empower yourself and your teen through communication.

Southwest Gas Helps Fuel the Community 

Catholic Charities recently welcomed the Southwest Gas FUEL for LIFE committee to our CARE Campus in Mesa where they presented a check for over $90,000 from employee workplace giving donations! During their visit, the group toured Catholic Charities’ Emergency Santa Program which provides toys, books and clothing to underserved children during the holidays. They also met with staff who provided information and resources on our Counseling and Domestic Violence programs and shared with employees what to do should someone need assistance.

Southwest Gas has been partnering with Catholic Charities since 2016 providing vital funding to support our programs and addressing important needs in our community. Their support does not end with monetary donations; Southwest Gas BLUE volunteers have hosted ice cream socials and summer activities for children at our housing communities, packed and delivered holiday meals to families in need, and more.

Thank you, Southwest Gas, for your incredible dedication to Catholic Charities’ mission!

Community Re-Entry Provides a
Second Chance at a Beautiful Life 

Catholic Charities' Community Re-Entry housing program provides safe, affordable housing to individuals in Northern Arizona who have had recent justice involvement. The program allows those exiting jail or prison to focus on their sobriety, family reunification and more without the threat of homelessness.

In this new video, you’ll hear from Robin, our first client at Juniper House. Robin credits Juniper House for not only encouraging her to go back to school and get her degree but saving her life. Today, she is a lead probation officer and works with people who are in the same situation she was in just a few short years ago.

Watch the video to hear Robin’s inspiring story.

Support Youth as they Return to School

North Star Youth Partnership knows that back to school can be a stressful time for students and parents. That’s why programs like Teens’ Closet help with clothing, backpacks, resources and referrals for low-income families, foster youth and those experiencing homelessness in Prescott and surrounding areas.

By donating needed items through North Star Youth Partnership’s Amazon Charity List, you can help students and parents in need. Donated items go to Teens’ Closet, North Star’s afterschool programs and Giving Closets at four school sites in Maricopa County.

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