James 1:27 says, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress.” In developing countries around the world, Catholic orphanages, schools, boarding homes and feeding centers are committed to practicing this pure and pleasing form of worship — meeting the needs of orphaned and vulnerable children.

Without anyone to care for them, these little ones would be left to fend for themselves. But with compassionate support from the Catholic Church, children can find nourishing meals, safe places to sleep and a door-opening education. They also have access to professional counseling and spiritual formation that can free them from pain and transform their future.

In 2020, your generosity helped our ministry provide grants for 28 projects to strengthen vulnerable children. Additionally, our donors funded two anti-trafficking projects and shipped material aid to four partners, ultimately assisting children in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. For example, your support rescued orphans and street children through St. Francis, St. Clare and St. Philomena Homes in Kenya. You also empowered Association Cross Mozambique to provide food, education, medical care and spiritual support for vulnerable children in the capital city of Maputo.