Matt Kramer, president and CEO of The Catholic Foundation, left, and Vicky P. Lattner, Board Chair of The Catholic Foundation, present a grant check to Bishop Kevin J. Farrell Jan. 8 at the Diocese of Dallas Pastoral Center.
Grant will help those affected by severe storms, tornadoes Dec. 26
The Catholic Foundation, a Dallas-based, lay-led community foundation, on Jan. 8 provided a $200,000 grant to the Catholic Diocese of Dallas for disaster relief. The funds will help those affected by at least nine tornadoes and severe weather that occurred in North Texas on Dec. 26.
The storms resulted in 11 deaths, and damages are expected to cost more than $1 billion. Trustees of The Catholic Foundation gathered following the disaster to approve the emergency grant.
Bishop Kevin J. Farrell said he is extremely grateful for the quick response to help those affected by the storms.
“I thank The Catholic Foundation for responding to the tremendous need that exists in light of this disaster. After visiting with some of the families in the devastated areas, l saw first-hand how extensive the damage is and how great the need,” Bishop Farrell said. “This emergency grant will provide crucial assistance to those who are struggling to recover and rebuild.”
Matt Kramer, president and CEO of The Catholic Foundation, said he believes it is indeed the role of a community foundation to step in when devastating events hit the communities it serves.
“Our prayers are with those who suffered tremendous losses,” Kramer said. “We are confident that the Diocese of Dallas will utilize these funds to provide help where it’s needed most.”
All parishes in the Diocese of Dallas took up a second collection at all Masses on Jan. 2-3 for disaster relief. The Catholic Foundation’s grant, as well as money collected during these Masses, will be distributed to Catholic Charities of Dallas and The Society of St. Vincent de Paul Diocesan Council of Dallas to reach those in need.
