Catholic Charities offers holiday wish

At this time of year, as we gather to celebrate Christmas and the holidays with family and friends, giving gifts to our loved ones, perhaps we could also remember our veterans who have given the gift of their time and their efforts -- and in a significant percentage of cases, their physical or mental health -- to keep our country safe and free.

Since 1917 when Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago was founded just days before the United States entered the First World War, we have met the needs of veterans and their families.

Today, we meet the basic human needs of thousands of low-income, hungry, homeless and hurting veterans, welcoming and assisting them to a life of greater dignity and respect in scores of programs throughout Cook and Lake counties.

As a not-for-profit, faith-based social service agency, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago accomplishes all our life-giving works of charity using 92 percent of every dollar donated to us to serve those in need regardless of their religious backgrounds or beliefs.

Catholic Charities is proud of our service to veterans and of all our services for the poor and vulnerable people of Cook and Lake counties.

May your holidays be blessed with peace, love and hope.

Rev. Michael M. Boland

President and CEO

Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago