Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas was recently honored by being named the 2013 Agency of the Year by Harvesters —The Community Food Network at their annual Circle of Hope awards. This special ceremony recognizes organizations and individuals leading the fight against hunger in the Midwest. More than 200 philanthropists, community agencies, volunteers and corporate food donors attended.
The Circle of Hope refers to the common interest between Harvesters and its agencies, volunteers and donors in alleviating hunger in the 26 counties served by Harvesters.
Catholic Charities was recognized for its nearly 40 years of providing a wide range of assistance to individuals and families in need. Among its many services, Catholic Charities operates five food pantries and distributes federal commodities through The Emergency Food Assistance Program.
Catholic Charities also partners with Harvesters to provide nutrition education through Project STRENGTH. Project STRENGTH is a program that helps bridge the gap between assistance and self-sufficiency by empowering participants to take control of a very basic, very important aspect of their life so they can eat better, feel better and live better. It empowers participants with the knowledge and skills they need to stretch their food resources and the “know-how” to produce nutritional meals.
With the help of more than 1,000 volunteers, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas estimates it will provide emergency services, including food, to more than 45,000 people in fiscal year 2013.
