Catholic Campaign for Human Development

"In God’s family, where all are sons and daughters of the same Father, and because they are grafted to Christ, sons and daughters in the Son, there are no “disposable lives.” All men and women enjoy an equal and inviolable dignity. All are loved by God. All have been redeemed by the blood of Christ, who died on the Cross and rose for all. This is the reason why no one can remain indifferent before the lot of our brothers and sisters." - (Pope Francis)

The Catholic Campaign for Human Development is the domestic anti-poverty, social justice program of the U.S. Catholic bishops. Its mission is to address the root causes of poverty in America through the promotion and support of community-controlled, self-help organizations and transformative education.

In the various talks I have given around the country over the years, I often refer to Jesus asking Peter whether he loves him (Jn 21:17). Jesus asks us the same question every day, “Do you love me?” It is not a question of faith so much as it is a challenge to a commitment for each of us. If we truly love the Lord, we must take care of one another—we must love one another. Illustrated throughout the Gospel by his words and deeds is the command of Christ to “love one another” (Jn 13:43).

Pope Francis reminds us to not allow the spirit of global solidarity to be lost in times of crisis and economic hardship. As Catholics, we are united through the sacraments of initiation; and “the Eucharist commits us to the poor” (CCC, 1397). Participating in the work of CCHD helps us not only to reach out to those on the peripheries but also to give hope to those in despair. During his Apostolic Visit to the U.S., the Holy Father succinctly reminded the nation through his address to the Joint Session of Congress, “The fight against poverty and hunger must be fought constantly and on many fronts, especially in its causes.” When the Christian faithful participate in this national collection, we are actively responding to the clarion call to live out the Gospel values by expressing an authentic priority to alleviate the hardships of the underprivileged and vulnerable as a labor of love.

Everything we have in our lives is a gift, and we know God cannot be outdone in generosity. As we proclaim the gospel of life and justice, celebrating it in the Mass and our whole existence, may we keep before us that "in prayer, there are no rich or poor, there are sons and daughters, sisters and brothers" (Pope Francis). 

"If I can help somebody as I pass along, then my living will not be in vain. Be courageous!!"

Grant Information

If you are part of a group working to increase social justice in Central Texas, you might be eligible for a grant from CCHD. If you are interested, see what types of grants are available and explore the details of the application process.

Ralph McCloud, National Director of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development, talks about the work of CCHD below.