Catholic Charities Receives $10,000 Grant to Help Prevent Eviction

As thousands of families face eviction throughout New Jersey this winter, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson continues to answer the call of those most in need. 

“We are a unique organization, in that we not only give individuals short term financial support; we also offer wrap-around services including food, clothing, help for those with addictive disorders, assistance for people with disabilities, legal immigration services, support for Veterans, and much more. It is important for us to provide those in need with not only vital assistance, but also with other layers of help that promote dignity and create hope,” said Scott Milliken, Catholic Charities Diocese of Paterson CEO.

To assist with their eviction prevention endeavors, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson recently received a $10,000 grant made possible through Catholic Charities USA and the Felician Sisters of North America Francis Fund.

“As the pandemic worsens and the weather becomes more bitter, many people are living on the brink of homelessness and they are terrified,” said Sister Donna Markham, OP, PhD, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA.  “The Felician Sisters, founded in the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi and clearly walking in the footsteps of the saint, joined Catholic Charities to initiate this emergency fund at a moment when people are increasingly desperate.”

Though, as stated in New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s Executive Order 106, “an individual cannot be removed from a residential property as the result of an eviction or foreclosure,” there is still an immense need. Catholic Charities is helping more families who are undocumented and providing more support for people who are homeless than any time in their 80-year history.  Catholic Charities is also helping many homeowners who depend on rental income.

“As businesses have shut down, there are so many more people in need now than before the pandemic. There is also a persistent fear of what will happen after the moratorium and how to handle debt and past-due payments. We are fortunate to have a dedicated staff who are helping all of those who come to our door,” said Bob Jacob, Director of Catholic Family and Community Services (a division of Catholic Charities, Paterson).

Since the start of the pandemic, Catholic Charities has given out over 1.5 million pounds of food and over $2.5 million in emergency support to those most in need.

“This generous grant will allow us to serve many families that have been impacted by the economic downturn due to workforce reduction of industry shut down. Allowing the newly homeless to become rehoused and for the housed, ease the stress of owing back rent. There are many hard-working families that will not eligible for public assistance or unemployment benefits. Many have considered Catholic Charities a safe haven they can rely on to assist them, in their time of greatest need,” said Ariel Alonso Director of Community and Emergency Support at Catholic Charities.

“We would like to thank Catholic Charities USA and the Felician Sisters for their support. We would not have been able to persevere on through this challenging time without help from our community. We are grateful to all of those who give back to our important ministry,” said Chris Brancato, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson Development Director.

To learn more about Catholic Charities to get help, or contribute, visit  www.ccpaterson.org.