ELMIRA, NY – Catholic Charities, in partnership with the Elmira Pioneers, invites members of the community to attend an evening of baseball at Dunn Field on Saturday, July 18^th. This event aims not only to provide family-friendly entertainment, but also to raise awareness about domestic violence and encourage community engagement in addressing this critical issue.

Domestic violence affects individuals and families across the United States, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Locally, Catholic Charities’ First Step Victim Services Program supports residents of Chemung and Schuyler Counties who have been a victim of a crime, with particular emphasis on victims of domestic violence. In 2025, the First Step program assisted nearly 225 individuals, delivering more than 3,185 services to those in need. The program maintains a 24-hour hotline, which can be accessed by calling or texting 607-742-9629.

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness, attendees at the July 18^th game are encouraged to wear purple. Event activities will include the sale of purple shirts, free face painting, and a 50/50 raffle. Proceeds from these efforts will directly support the First Step program, ensuring the continued provision of essential services to victims within the community.

Tickets for the game may be purchased by calling 607-734-2690. The game is scheduled to begin at 6:30pm, with gates opening at 5:30pm. Giveaways and activities will be available for attendees of all ages.

For more information on First Step, please visit the Catholic Charities website at www.CatholicCharitiesCS.org or call 607-535-2050 and speak with an Advocate.

About Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler:
Catholic Charities provides support to individuals and families in our community to help them live a more self-reliant life. The agency specializes in emergency services and housing support. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester operates agencies serving twelve Western New York counties, from the Southern Tier to Rochester, including Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler. For more information on services, please visit www.CatholicCharitiesCS.org or ccdor.org.

 

 

Bringing Hope to Our Community This Summer

We recently had the honor of hosting the People of Hope Mobile Museum—a powerful reminder that hope isn’t just something we celebrate.
It’s something we create every day, right here in our community.

At Catholic Charities, we are hope.
And so are you.

Every day, your support makes meaningful moments possible:
✔ A meal shared with a family in need
✔ Compassion during a mental health crisis
✔ A safe place in a time of uncertainty

A single act of kindness can truly change everything.

Right now, someone in our community is facing a difficult moment—and together, we can meet them with hope. Your gift today provides immediate support and lasting impact.

Because of you…
• Families are fed
• Individuals receive care and guidance
• Neighbors find stability and strength

Your generosity is changing lives.
You are hope.

💙 Join us this summer in bringing hope to those who need it most.
👉 Donate to Provide Hope | Catholic Charities Chemung / Schuyler

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Volunteering with Catholic Charities is a powerful way to bring hope to life in our community. Every act of service—whether offering a listening ear, sharing a meal, or helping someone navigate a difficult moment—creates a ripple of compassion that reminds others they are not alone.

Our volunteers embody hope in action, standing beside neighbors in times of need and helping to build a stronger, more caring community. When you give your time, you’re not just helping—you’re restoring dignity, inspiring resilience, and showing that hope is alive and within reach for everyone.

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A Story of Stability, Trust, and Compassion

For more than a decade, “Maria” was part of our Supportive Housing program, where she found not only housing, but consistent care and connection.

During her time with us, Maria faced significant challenges, including declining physical and mental health, cancer treatment, and multiple hospitalizations. Despite periods of depression and uncertainty, she remained engaged in care—with the steady support of staff who helped her attend appointments, manage her health, and maintain stable housing.

Over the years, Maria built trust with her care team. While she often struggled with change, that trust became the foundation that helped her navigate some of the most difficult moments in her life.

In recent months, Maria’s health declined significantly, ultimately requiring a higher level of care. Thanks to the dedicated advocacy and teamwork of staff, she was successfully transitioned to a long-term care setting where she can receive the support she needs to remain safe.

This transition—while emotional—was handled with extraordinary care, coordination, and compassion. Staff worked tirelessly to ensure Maria’s needs were met every step of the way.

Her daughter later shared her gratitude, saying:

“I am so happy my mother found her tribe.”

Maria’s story is a powerful reminder that hope is not just about outcomes—it’s about showing up, building trust, and walking alongside someone through every stage of their journey. It’s also a reflection of our staff—the true People of Hope—who bring compassion, persistence, and dignity to every person we serve.

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As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, we reflect on the enduring values that unite us—freedom, compassion, and the belief in a brighter future for all. This milestone is not only a time to honor our nation’s history, but also to renew our commitment to caring for one another and building stronger communities. Together, let’s continue to create a legacy of hope for generations to come.

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Support Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler — Just by Getting a Quote!
Extended Until July 2nd!

For the month of June any home, auto, or life quote where you mention Catholic Charities will generate a donation of $10 to Catholic Charities – No Purchase Necessary.

Max of $30 per household, current State Farm policyholders are not eligible.

To participate just call the State Farm office directly at 607-733-6623 for a quote and mention Catholic Charities!

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JULY EVENTS

July 1 – Tabling at the Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
July 3 – Agency CLOSED, Independence Day (observance)
July 8 – Tabling at the Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
July 10 – Tabling at the Horseheads Farmers Market, Thorne Street Park, 4:00pm – 6:00pm
July 14 – Tabling at the Horseheads Library, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
July 17 – Back to School Drive Starts
July 18 – Domestic Violence Awareness Night at the Elmira Pioneers, Dunn Field, 6:30pm
July 25 – Odessa Community Days, Noon – 5:00pm
July 27 – Tabling at the Transportation Center, 9:30am – 11:30am
July 27 – Soundbath Experience Event – Proceeds go to First Step, The 200 Lounge (200 E Church St., Elmira, NY 14901), 6:00 pm
July 31 – Tabling at the Horseheads Farmers Market, Thorne Street Park, 4:00pm – 6:00pm

Bags of HOPE: Consider organizing a Bags of HOPE drive for much-needed items (sunscreen, bug spray, and flea and tick animal collars). You can view our wishlist and purchase online as well. These items will assist those at our Homeless Shelter and those visiting the Samaritan Center.

AUGUST EVENTS

August 1 – Fundraiser at The Yard FLX, 2374 NY-414, Watkins Glen, 1:00pm – 5:00pm
August 5 – Tabling at the Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
August 7 – Tabling at the Horseheads Farmers Market, Thorne Street Park, 4:00pm – 6:00pm
August 11 – Tabling at the Horseheads Library, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
August 12 – Back to School Drive Ends
August 14 – Tabling at the Horseheads Farmers Market, Thorne Street Park, 4:00pm – 6:00pm
August 19 – Tabling at the Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
August 22 – Strong Kids Safe Kids, Chemung County Fairgrounds, 11:00am – 2:00pm
August 25 – Schuyler Back to School Backpack Pickup, Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry, 9:00am – 2:00pm
August 27 – Schuyler Back to School Backpack Pickup, Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry, Noon – 4:00pm
August 28 – Schuyler Back to School Backpack Pickup, Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry, 9:00am – 2:00pm
August 28 – Tabling at the Horseheads Farmers Market, Thorne Street Park, 4:00pm – 6:00pm
August 29 – Raymour & Flanigan Fundraiser, 2:00pm – 4:00pm

People of Hope Museum Inspires Across the Diocese of Rochester

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester recently hosted the People of Hope Museum in Horseheads and Rochester, welcoming hundreds of visitors for an inspiring and interactive experience. Through poverty simulations, staff video stories, and messages of hope, guests gained a deeper understanding of the challenges many in our communities face—and how Catholic Charities responds with compassion and dignity.

The events brought together all six Catholic Charities agencies, parish ministries, and diocesan staff, showcasing services across our 12-county region. The Southern Tier event was especially notable, setting a new attendance record for the traveling exhibit with more than 300 visitors in a single day. The success reflected the incredible dedication of staff and volunteers, whose teamwork created a seamless and impactful experience.

We were honored to welcome Bishop Bonnici to both events and especially proud to see Lisa Appleby of Catholic Charities Chemung/Schuyler featured in the museum’s national exhibit. In sharing the story of a longtime resident’s personal transformation, she helped bring a powerful narrative to light that has even been shared with Pope Leo XIV, highlighting how the work happening here locally is making a global impact.

As the museum continues its journey across the country, its message remains clear: hope is alive and present in our communities every day. Thank you to all who helped make this event such a meaningful success—and to everyone who continues to bring hope to life through their work.

To see where the museum will go next, please visit PeopleofHope.us for more information.

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June is National Homeownership Month

June is recognized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as National Homeownership Month, a time to celebrate how homeownership strengthens communities, creates stability, and expands opportunities for families. HUD emphasizes that owning a home is more than a financial milestone—it represents security, belonging, and the chance to build a better future. Throughout the month, the agency highlights its commitment to increasing access to safe, affordable housing and helping individuals, especially first-time buyers, achieve the dream of homeownership.

At its heart, this effort is about hope—the belief that with the right guidance and support, families can build stable and fulfilling lives. Homeownership reflects that hope as a place where memories are made and futures are built. HUD’s Housing Counseling Program plays a key role by connecting people with trusted counselors who help them navigate challenges and succeed. Catholic Charities Chemung & Schuyler, a HUD-approved agency, proudly supports this mission by empowering individuals and families with the tools and confidence needed to turn homeownership into a lasting reality.

For more information, please visit our Housing Programs webpage.

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Each day, someone in our community walks through our doors carrying fear, uncertainty, or loss—and every day, they are met with hope.

At Catholic Charities of Chemung and Schuyler Counties, hope is more than a message—it’s action:

• A mother finding safety after domestic violence
• A neighbor receiving food and compassion
• Someone in crisis met with care, not judgment

These moments happen because of you. You are part of this hope.

As inspired by the People of Hope Mobile Museum, we’re reminded that change happens through people who show up.

Your Gift Makes Hope Possible:

• $45 provides emergency assistance
• $75 helps feed families facing hunger
• $100 supports mental health housing needs

Every gift creates compassion, dignity, and stability for our neighbors.

Together, we are hope.
Please consider making a gift today.

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Support Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler— Just by Getting a Quote!

For the month of June any home, auto, or life quote where you mention Catholic Charities will generate a donation of $10 to Catholic Charities – No Purchase Necessary.

Max of $30 per household, current State Farm policyholders are not eligible.

To participate just fill out the google form below or call the State Farm office directly at 607-733-6623 for a quote and mention Catholic Charities!

https://formurl.com/to/CatholicCharities

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WETM-TV to Host a Diaper Drive to Benefit Catholic Charities

WETM-TV will be hosting a Diaper Drive on June 12, 2026, that will benefit Catholic Charities of Chemung & Schuyler’s Samaritan Center Food Pantry and Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry, as well as Catholic Charities of Steuben/Livingston’s Healthy Families program.

Drop-off Locations and Times:

• WETM-TV, 101 E. Water St., Elmira, 6:00am – 7:00pm
• Schuyler Outreach Food Pantry, 112 Tenth St., Watkins Glen, 9:00am – 11:00am
• Catholic Charities of Steuben/Livingston Healthy Families, 21 W. Williams St., Corning, NY, 8:00am – 5:00pm

All diapers must be new and unopened. All sizes are welcome.

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June Events:

June 3 – Tabling at Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
June 9 – Tabling at the Horseheads Library, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
June 10 – Tabling at Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
June 12 – WETM-TV Diaper Drive, 101 E. Water St., Elmira, 6:00am – 7:00pm
June 12 – United Way Day of Action
June 12 – Agency Closing at Noon, Employee Recognition Luncheon
June 18 – Tabling at the Senior Games, Harris Hill Amusement Park, 9:00am – 12:00pm
June 19 – Schuyler Office CLOSED, Juneteenth
June 20 – Tabling at Juneteenth Event, Noon – 4:00pm
June 24 – Samaritan Center Summer Event, 380 S Main Street, Elmira, 10:30am – 12:30pm
June 26 – Tabling at the Horseheads Farmer’s Market, Thorne Street Park, 4:00pm – 8:00pm

July Events:

July 1 – Tabling at the Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
July 3 – Agency CLOSED, Independence Day (observance)
July 8 – Tabling at the Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
July 10 – Tabling at the Horseheads Farmers Market, Thorne Street Park, 4:00pm – 8:00pm
July 14 – Tabling at the Horseheads Library, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
July 18 – Domestic Violence Awareness Night at the Elmira Pioneers, Dunn Field, 6:30pm
July 27 – Tabling at the Transportation Center, 9:30am – 11:30am
July 31 – Tabling at the Horseheads Farmers Market, Thorne Street Park, 4:00pm – 8:00pm
August 1 – Fundraiser at The Yard FLX, 2374 NY-414, Watkins Glen, Time TBD

Bags of HOPE: Consider organizing a Bags of HOPE drive for much-needed items (sunscreen, bug spray, and flea and tick collars). You can view our wishlist and purchase online as well. These items will assist those at our Homeless Shelter and those visiting the Samaritan Center.

The People of Hope Mobile Museum Is Coming to Chemung County!

Catholic Charities of Chemung and Schuyler Counties invites the community to experience the People of Hope Mobile Museum, a one-of-a-kind, interactive exhibit that shares powerful, faith-filled stories of neighbors helping neighbors.

Housed in a 53-foot mobile museum, this immersive experience uses video, audio, and hands-on activities to explore the realities of poverty, the impact of service, and the vital role social service organizations play in strengthening our communities. A local story from Catholic Charities Chemung/Schuyler is featured as part of the exhibit, offering a meaningful opportunity for reflection and conversation.

Museum Dates & Locations

Monday, May 4, 2026
St. Mary Our Mother Church
816 West Broad Street, Horseheads, NY 14845
Open to the public from 12:30–4:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 7, 2026
St. Marianne Cope Parish at Guardian Angels Church
2061 E. Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14623
Open to the public from 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

What You’ll Experience:
• Inspiring video stories of individuals serving their communities
• An interactive poverty simulation that highlights real-life decision-making
• An audio library with reflections on poverty, social isolation, and community action
• National and state data illustrating community needs and the importance of social services

The People of Hope Mobile Museum is ADA compliant and open to all community members. This experience is especially meaningful for those involved in human services, housing, healthcare, education, advocacy, and faith-based outreach—but all are welcome.
We hope you’ll stop by and share this opportunity with others who may be interested. For more information, please visit the People of Hope website.

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma, and remind one another that mental well-being is an essential part of overall health. Mental health challenges affect individuals and families across every community, background, and stage of life—and no one has to face them alone.

This month encourages open conversations, compassion, and understanding. By acknowledging the importance of mental health, we help create spaces where people feel safe seeking support, sharing their experiences, and accessing the care they need. Small actions—listening without judgment, checking in on a friend, or learning more about available resources—can make a meaningful difference.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Local providers, community organizations, and faith communities offer support and connection, and immediate help is always available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which can be reached by calling or texting 988. Together, we can foster hope, understanding, and healing for all.

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Volunteers Needed at the Samaritan Center Food Pantry

The Samaritan Center Food Pantry is seeking volunteers to help serve our neighbors facing food insecurity. With many shifts available, there are opportunities to fit a variety of schedules—whether you’re able to help regularly or just occasionally.

Volunteers play a vital role in welcoming guests, preparing food distributions, stocking shelves, and supporting day to day pantry operations. Every role helps ensure individuals and families are treated with dignity, compassion, and care.

No special experience is required—just a willingness to lend a hand and a heart for service. This is a meaningful way to give back, connect with others, and make a direct impact in our community.

If you’re interested in volunteering at the Samaritan Center Food Pantry or would like more information about available shifts, we’d love to hear from you.

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May Events:

May 2 – Tabling at Walk a Mile, Eldridge Park, Elmira, 9:00am – Noon
May 4 – People of Hope Museum, St. Mary Our Mother Church, 816 W. Broad Street, Horseheads, NY 14845, 12:30pm – 4:30pm
May 4 – Guthrie MOM Unit, 160 High Street, Elmira, 9:00am – 4:00pm
May 7 – People of Hope Museum, St. Marianne Cope Parish, 2061 E. Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14623, 10:00am – 6:00pm
May 12 – Tabling at the Horseheads Library, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
May 20 – Tabling at the Women’s Empowerment Conference, Corning Community College, 8:30am – 4:30pm
May 25 – AGENCY CLOSED, Memorial Day

June Events:

June 3 – Tabling at Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
June 9 – Tabling at the Horseheads Library, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
June 10 – Tabling at Wisner Market, 10:00am – 2:00pm
June 18 – Tabling at the Senior Games, Harris Hill Amusement Park, 9:00am – 12:00pm
June 19 – Schuyler Office CLOSED, Juneteenth
June 20 – Tabling at Juneteenth Event, Noon – 4:00pm
June 24 – Samaritan Center Summer Event, 380 S Main Street, Elmira, 10:30am – 12:30pm
June 26 – Tabling at the Horseheads Farmer’s Market, Thorne Street Park, 4:00pm – 8:00pm

 

Bags of HOPE: Consider organizing a Bags of HOPE drive for much-needed items (hygiene items and diapers). You can view our wishlist and purchase online as well. These items will assist those at our Homeless Shelter and those visiting the Samaritan Center.

 

ELMIRA, NY – Catholic Charities Diocese of Rochester is joining Catholic Charities agencies across the United States to host People of Hope: Faith Filled Stories of Neighbors Helping Neighbors, a traveling museum that amplifies the transformative impact of Christian service. The People of Hope Museum will be free and open to the public at two locations in the Diocese of Rochester in May 2026.

The mobile museum will be open:
• May 4, 2026 at St. Mary Our Mother Church, 816 West Broad Street, Horseheads, NY from 12:30pm – 4:30pm for the public.
• May 7, 2026 at St. Marianne Cope Parish at Guardian Angels Church, 2061 E. Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 10am – 6pm for the public.

Bishop John Bonnici will open the museum and welcome guests both days at 10am.

The mobile museum celebrates the hope that Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester brings to over 100,000 people in our communities every year. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about needs in our community, and to experience compelling stories about neighbors in need and the Catholic Charities staff who bring love and hope to them.

One of the featured stories comes from our Catholic Charities Chemung/Schuyler agency, highlighting local impact within the broader national movement. LaFrance Supervisor, Lisa Appleby, shares a local Elmira story as part of the museum experience.

Housed inside a customized 53-foot tractor trailer, the People of Hope Museum is an immersive experience featuring more than 40 professionally produced video stories of Catholic Charities staff and volunteers from across the country sharing meaningful encounters with individuals and families facing hardship.

In addition to the video storytelling gallery, visitors can:
• Participate in an interactive poverty simulation, stepping into another person’s life to better understand the daily realities of living on the margins
• Visit a recording studio to share their own stories of hope, service, and faith
• Explore an audio library featuring short excerpts from seminal works on poverty, social isolation, bridge building, and community action
• Engage with national and state data illustrating the scope of need and the vital role of social service organizations

This local work reflects the shared mission of Catholic Charities agencies nationwide to honor the dignity of every person and respond to the Gospel call to serve those most in need.
The People of Hope Museum launched its national tour in March and will travel the United States for two and a half years. The initiative is made possible through a 2024 grant of nearly $5 million from Lilly Endowment Inc., awarded through its National Storytelling Initiative on Christian Faith and Life.

To learn more about the People of Hope Museum, visit www.peopleofhope.us. To explore volunteer opportunities or learn more about Catholic Charities of Chemung & Schuyler programs, visit www.CatholicCharitiesCS.org.

About Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester: For more than a century, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester has supported individuals and families throughout the region by providing compassionate, dignity centered services during times of crisis and transition.

Chemung/Schuyler: Catholic Charities provides support to individuals and families in our community to help them live a more self-reliant life. The agency specializes in emergency services and housing support. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester operates six agencies serving twelve Western New York counties, from the Southern Tier to Rochester, including Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler. For more information on services, please visit CatholicCharitiesCS.org.

About People of Hope Museum: Faith Filled Stories of Neighbors Helping Neighbors celebrates the power of Christian service and its transformative impact on both giver and receiver. The mobile museum offers a one of a kind opportunity for communities to experience, reflect on, and share stories of compassion, faith, and service in action.tiesCS.org or ccdor.org.

Hope is Coming: People of Hope Museum Coming to the Diocese of Rochester

Catholic Charities USA is launching an inspiring new initiative, People of Hope, a nationwide mobile storytelling exhibit debuting in spring 2026. Supported by a major grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., the exhibit brings to life the real stories of volunteers, staff, and community members whose everyday acts of service reflect faith, compassion, and human connection. Through immersive audio and visual experiences, People of Hope celebrates how helping others transforms both those who serve and those they serve.

Housed inside a retrofitted tractor trailer, the exhibit invites visitors to listen to powerful, professionally recorded stories and even record their own reflections on service, hope, and transformation. Research shows many people feel called to help but aren’t sure how to begin. People of Hope bridges that gap by showing how meaningful, accessible, and fulfilling volunteering can be—and how service builds lasting relationships and stronger communities.

We’re excited that People of Hope will visit our region as part of its national tour, stopping in Chemung County on May 4, at St. Mary Our Mother Church in Horseheads, and Rochester on May 7, at St. Marianne Cope Parish at Guardian Angels Church. This free, family friendly experience offers a chance to reflect, listen, and add your own story to a growing national tapestry of hope. Learn more about the People of Hope exhibit by visiting the People of Hope page on our website.

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21st Annual Empty Bowls: Thank You for Attending!

We are thrilled to share that our 21st Annual Empty Bowls event was a tremendous success, raising over $30,000 to support the Samaritan Center. Thanks to the generosity of our community—attendees, volunteers, artists, and sponsors—this beloved event continues to make a meaningful impact by helping ensure our neighbors facing food insecurity have access to nutritious meals and vital support services. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped turn empty bowls into full hearts and stronger hope for those we serve.

If we missed you, and you wish to make a donation, please click here!

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Welcome Bishop John S. Bonnici!

We would like to warmly welcome Bishop John S. Bonnici, who was installed as the 10th Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester at a special Mass on March 19th at Sacred Heart Cathedral. He succeeds Bishop Salvatore Matano, who retires after 12 years of faithful ministry. We embrace Bishop Bonnici’s vision of service rooted in love and compassion and eagerly anticipate his stewardship.

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APRIL EVENTS

April 14 – Tabling at the Horseheads Library, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
April 20-24 – National Volunteer Week

Bags of HOPE: Consider organizing a Bags of HOPE drive for much-needed items (hygiene items and diapers). You can view our wishlist and purchase online as well. These items will assist those at our Homeless Shelter and those visiting the Samaritan Center.

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MAY EVENTS

May 2 – Tabling at Walk a Mile, Eldridge Park, Elmira, 9:00am – Noon
May 4 – People of Hope Museum, St. Mary Our Mother Church, 816 W. Broad Street, Horseheads, NY 14845, time TBD
May 4 – Guthrie MOM Unit, 160 High Street, Elmira, 9:00am – 4:00pm
May 7 – People of Hope Museum, St. Marianne Cope Parish, 2061 E. Henrietta Road, Rochester, NY 14623, time TBD
May 12 – Tabling at the Horseheads Library, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
May 20 – Tabling at the Women’s Empowerment Conference, Corning Community College, 8:30am – 4:30pm
May 25 – AGENCY CLOSED, Memorial Day

ELMIRA, NY – Catholic Charities is thrilled to announce the success of the 21st Empty Bowls Luncheon, that was held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Notre Dame High School. This year’s event, the largest fundraiser for The Samaritan Center, raised over $30,000 to support local poverty relief efforts. Over the past twenty years, the Empty Bowls Luncheon has raised over $404,000, making a significant impact on our community.

Generous sponsorship from The Hilliard Corporation, Kennedy Valve, Chemung Canal Trust Company, Community Bank, Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield, Gough Holding, Stewart Advisory Services, Southern Tier Custom Fabricators, Visions Federal Credit Union, Wegmans, and other local sponsors helped make this year’s event possible. The Empty Bowls Luncheon is unique, featuring handmade, commemorative bowls created by local potters. Guests also enjoyed delicious homemade soup provided by Barb & Mark McClure, owners of Barb’s Soup’s On Cafe in Elmira.

The Empty Bowls Luncheon featured delicious soup, a brief presentation, raffles and an award presentation. The Longwell-McClure Award is named after Chris Longwell, Associate Professor of Art at Elmira College and Barb and Mark McClure, Owners of Barb’s Soup’s On. As the first recipients of the award, Catholic Charities honored Chris as an individual who had supported Catholic Charities as well as the McClure’s as a business who had supported in unique and impactful ways over the years.

Professor Longwell has been making bowls for this luncheon for the last 21 years and was instrumental in starting this fundraising event at Elmira College where it was held until 2022 when the event moved to Notre Dame. The McClures have been providing soup for this luncheon since the beginning, even providing to-go soup during the virtual Empty Bowls that was held due to COVID.

As a tribute to Professor Longwell and the McClures, Cindy Fuller and Corning Federal Credit Union were recognized for their dedication to our community.

Beautiful bowls were created and donated by the following:
• Colleen McCall Ceramics
• David Webster’s Pottery
• Elmira College Students and Chris Longwell
• Horseheads High School Students and Cynthia Cratsley
• Kettle Creek Pottery, Amy Manson
• Mary Purdy

Notre Dame students helped prepare for the event and assisted with serving throughout the luncheon. It was a wonderful combination of delicious food, beautiful bowls, a meaningful cause, and—most importantly—the generous partners who support our mission.

The Samaritan Center operates a food pantry five days a week, providing food, personal hygiene items, diapers, and wipes. Volunteers serve guests daily. If you’re interested in volunteering, please visit the Catholic Charities website to sign up. If you would like to make a donation to help Catholic Charities exceed their fundraising goal, you may visit their website.

About Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler: Catholic Charities provides support to individuals and families in our community to help them live a more self-reliant life. The agency specializes in emergency services and housing support. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester operates agencies serving twelve Western New York counties, from the Southern Tier to Rochester, including Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler. For more information on services, please visit CatholicCharitiesCS.org or ccdor.org.

Empire State Child Credit Offers Up to $1,000 Per Child Under Age Four
Free Tax Assistance Available Through April 15 to Help Families Claim Benefits

ELMIRA, NY – Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler invites you to the 21st Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon being held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at Notre Dame High School. As the largest fundraiser for the Samaritan Center, this event is designed to raise awareness of the effects of hunger and poverty in our community. Over the last twenty years, the Empty Bowls Luncheon has raised over $404,000 toward local poverty relief efforts.

This year’s event is generously sponsored in part by Gold Sponsors: The Hilliard Corporation and Kennedy Valve.

Empty Bowls stands out as a special event thanks to its collaboration with local potters, who create handmade, commemorative bowls for attendees contributing $50 or more. Catholic Charities also teams up with Barb and Mark McClure, owners of Barb’s Soups On Café in Elmira, to serve guests delicious homemade soup. It’s a wonderful blend of great food, beautiful craftsmanship, and meaningful community impact.

Tickets are $50 per person for lunch and a commemorative soup bowl created by a local art student or artisan. Get your tickets today as a limited number will be sold. For more information, contact Catholic Charities at 607-734-9784, or visit the event page at www.CatholicCharitiesCS.org.

The Empty Bowls Luncheon will include an impactful presentation, a door prize, and a raffle for a set of beautiful commemorative bowls donated by artisan Mary Purdy from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

The Samaritan Center operates a food pantry five days a week. In addition to food, personal hygiene items, diapers and wipes are also available. The Samaritan Center relies on volunteers to serve guests at the food pantry every day. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit the Catholic Charities website to sign up.

About Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler: Catholic Charities provides support to individuals and families in our community to help them live a more self-reliant life. The agency specializes in emergency services and housing support. Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester operates agencies serving twelve Western New York counties, from the Southern Tier to Rochester, including Catholic Charities of Chemung/Schuyler. For more information on services, please visit CatholicCharitiesCS.org or ccdor.org.

Join Us for the 21st Annual Empty Bowls Luncheon!

Empty Bowls is more than a fundraising event—it’s a powerful reminder of the hunger experienced by many in our community and a chance for all of us to take part in meaningful change. Guests share a simple meal and take home a handcrafted bowl, symbolizing the empty bowls faced by individuals and families who struggle each day.
Proceeds from this event directly support the Samaritan Center’s work, providing food and essential services to those experiencing hunger and homelessness. Tickets can be purchased for lunch only, or lunch and a commemorative bowl. Whether you attend, sponsor, or make a donation, your participation helps ensure that fewer of our neighbors face empty cupboards and difficult choices.
We invite you to join us in this effort. Together, we can fill more bowls, support more families, and strengthen our community one meal at a time.

Buy Your Tickets Here!
Sponsorship Opportunities

Coming Soon: People of Hope — A Nationwide Storytelling Experience

Catholic Charities USA is launching People of Hope, an immersive, two and a half year traveling exhibit that celebrates powerful, faith filled stories of neighbors helping neighbors. Thanks to a major Lilly Endowment grant, this retrofitted tractor trailer will tour the country beginning in 2026 — and it’s headed to Chemung County (5/4) and Rochester (5/7).

Visitors will step inside to hear moving firsthand accounts from Catholic Charities staff and volunteers, witness moments of service that transformed lives, and even record their own stories of hope.

Stay tuned for dates, details, and how you can be part of this inspiring national journey.

ADVOCACY ALERT: The Bring It Home Campaign needs your help urging New York State to fully fund mental health housing in the 2026-2027 State Budget.

Why Your Letter Matters:
• The Governor’s proposal includes only a 1.7% Targeted Inflationary Increase (TII)—but 2.7% is needed just to keep pace with inflation.
• Without the full 2.7%, mental health housing programs face cuts that affect rising operational costs like food, utilities, insurance, transportation, and staff wages.
• We must advocate NOW to ensure these programs receive adequate funding.
How to Help:
• Click the link below.
• Enter your street address, zip code, and full name. A pre-written letter will automatically be sent to the Governor and NYS Legislators

You can send the e letter more than once—and please share the link with others!
👉 Send E Letters Here!

 

MARCH EVENTS
March 2 – Guthrie MOM Unit, 160 High Street, Elmira, 9:00am – 4:00pm
March 16 – Last Day to Become a Sponsor for Empty Bowls
March 19 – Last Day to Purchase Empty Bowls Tickets
March 24 – 21st Annual Empty Bowls, Notre Dame High School, 11:30am – 1:00pm

APRIL EVENTS
April 3 – AGENCY CLOSED, Good Friday
April 5 – Easter Dinner, Elmira Community Kitchen (160 High St, Elmira), time TBD
April 9 – Pasta Night Fundraiser, Glenora Wine Cellars (5435 NY-14, Dundee, NY), 5:00pm – 7:00pm
April 14 – Tabling at the Horseheads Library, 2:30pm – 4:30pm
April 20-24 – National Volunteer Week
April 22 – Volunteer Recognition Luncheon, TBD, 1:00pm – 2:30pm

Bags of HOPE: Consider organizing a Bags of HOPE drive for much-needed items (men’s hygiene, diapers, ready-to-eat foods, and non-perishable items). You can view our wishlist and purchase online as well. These items will assist those at our Homeless Shelter and those visiting the Samaritan Center.