Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington raised a record amount at its annual ball on February 7.
The 43rd annual ball hosted by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge, and the associated Mix & Mingle reception for young adults, were held at the Ritz-Carlton in Tysons Corner. The combined events raised $1,736,014, exceeding the $1.6 million goal.
Both celebrations were sold out.
“We are deeply grateful for all of our generous donors who helped us reach this incredible milestone,” said Stephen Carattini, president and chief executive officer of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington. “The theme of the evening was ‘hope’ and the funds raised will enable Catholic Charities to continue to share the gift of hope with thousands of our neighbors in need throughout our diocese.”
The volunteer-led ball raised support for Catholic Charities ministries which serve throughout the 21 counties and seven cities of the Diocese of Arlington. Among those ministries are transitional housing for homeless men, pregnant women, mothers and children; a diocesan-wide food collection, pantry and distribution ministry for the hungry; free health care and low-cost mental health care, emergency financial assistance, pregnancy and adoption services; a prison ministry, education and workforce development classes, legal services for immigrants, and refugee services.
In the 2024 fiscal year, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Arlington offered 19,877 free meals for the homeless at Christ House in Old Town Alexandria, a 61% increase from 2022.
Additionally, Catholic Charities provided 42,947 pounds of hygiene and household products and more than 2.1 million pounds of food to those in need.
Through the generosity of donors, Catholic Charities also provided $2.8 million in free medical assistance at its two Catholic Charities Mother of Mercy clinics, and $914,000 in emergency assistance to those threatened with eviction, utility cutoffs or in need of car repair.
