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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.