Bountiful Harvest 2013

Details: 06 September 2013

On Sunday, Aug. 25, Catholic Social Services celebrated its 15th annual "Bountiful Harvest Banquet" in Hastings. What originally started as a potluck dinner in which a volunteer or volunteers were honored, has grown into what it is now. Almost 400 people gathered at the Hastings City Auditorium with Bishop Conley for dinner and I outlined what the faithful have accomplished through CSS in the central and western parts of the diocese.

I am thankful for having had the opportunity to report to our generous benefactors what they have accomplished using CSS as a vehicle – namely, having helped more than 8,100 individuals in the central and western portions of the diocese last year, in a number of ways, including emergency services and grants for counseling.

I am happy to announce that CSS has given the first Caritas Christi (Love of Christ) Award to Jack and Judy Crowley for the many years they have served the Catholic Church and the those in need.

Mr. Tom Schik informed those gathered that not only has Judy been a volunteer at the St. Joseph Gift & Thrift Store in Hastings, but also helped start our Christmas gift giveaway program for children.

Jack has been a long-time member of the board of administrators and the corporate committee for Bountiful Harvest for Catholic Social Services. He has opened many doors for me, for which I am very grateful. These are just a few of the things this giving couple has done for CSS, their parish and the diocese.

After accepting the award, Jack informed those present that their relationship with Catholic Social Services spans many years, as Judy was adopted through Catholic Social Services!

Before the close of the evening, I was able to thank our many corporate and individual donors and to inform them that we at Catholic Social Services pray for them on a daily basis. Please let me take this opportunity to do this once more – THANK YOU ALL!