Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington

Overview

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington is a nonprofit social service agency operating in the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia. It provides various services to individuals and families in need across twenty-one counties and seven independent cities.

History

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington traces its roots back to February 11, 1947, when it was founded as Catholic Charities of Northern Virginia under the authority of Bishop Peter Leo Ireton of the Diocese of Richmond. Initially, it focused on serving children and unmarried mothers by providing foster care, adoption, and financial assistance[1].

As the population of Northern Virginia grew, so did the demand for services. In 1974, with the establishment of the Diocese of Arlington, the organization evolved into Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington. Over the years, it expanded its services and opened several branch offices across the diocese, including in Alexandria, Fairfax, Winchester, and Fredericksburg[1].

Programs and Services

Today, Catholic Charities offers a wide range of programs designed to empower individuals, families, and communities. These include:

• Adoption and Pregnancy Services: Providing options for expectant mothers and support for adoptive families.
• Counseling: Offering mental health counseling to those in need.
• Health Services: Operating the Mother of Mercy Free Health Clinic, which provides medical care to those without insurance.
• Food and Housing Assistance: Managing initiatives like the St. Lucy Food Project and offering shelters such as Christ House Men’s Transformational Housing and St. Margaret of Cortona Family Transformational Housing.
• Immigrant and Refugee Services: Assisting newcomers with documentation, English classes, and other essential support.
• Emergency Financial Assistance: Providing rent and utility assistance to those facing financial hardships.
• Prison Ministry and Re-entry Programs: Supporting individuals transitioning back into society after incarceration[1][4].

Mission and Vision

The mission of Catholic Charities is rooted in the Gospel and the teachings of the Roman Catholic faith, aiming to serve the most vulnerable by promoting dignity and self-sufficiency among individuals and families[3]. The vision emphasizes collaboration, quality services, and effective response to evolving community needs[3].

Governance and Financials

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington operates as a 501(c)(3) organization. It is part of Catholic Charities USA, a national network of local charitable agencies[2]. The local chapter has an annual budget of over $12.5 million and is committed to continually expanding its services throughout the diocese[1].