2024-25 ANNUAL REPORT

As I step into the role of Executive Director, I do so with deep gratitude for your support, for the extraordinary mission of Catholic Charities of Central Texas, and for the strength of the community that surrounds us.

This past year brought its share of changes and challenges to our organization. When Sara Ramirez was named President and CEO of Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada, I was honored to be chosen to lead us into our next chapter. We mourned the loss of our beloved Pope Francis and rejoiced when Pope Leo XIV was elected the first Pope from the United States. We celebrated as Bishop Joe Vásquez was named Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston/Houston, and while the goodbye was bittersweet, we joyfully prepare to welcome Bishop Daniel Garcia back to the Diocese of Austin.

This year we witnessed increased fear among immigrant and refugee families in the face of intensified enforcement actions. We faced an unexpected suspension of federal funding, resulting in the indefinite pause of our Refugee Resettlement Services program. These struggles were not just operational, they were personal to the families we serve, our staff, and our community.

And yet, even in these uncertain times, our mission remains strong. Our theme for the past year was “We are there.” Despite the changes and challenges we navigated, we continued to be there for more than 11,000 individuals in their most vulnerable moments. More than ever, I’ve seen our staff rise with courage and compassion to walk alongside families through difficult times.

I’ve seen donors, volunteers, and parish partners step up when we needed them most. Every time we reached out to our community, you answered generously, faithfully, and with open hearts. That response reminds me that the work we do at Catholic Charities is not ours alone. It is a shared mission, rooted in the Gospel. Together, We are there to stand with the vulnerable, to bring hope to those who are in their darkest hour, and to advocate for justice and mercy in our communities. We do this work not only because it’s needed—but because it’s who we are.

As I reflect on the past year, I see more than challenges, I see resilience – the strength of the families we serve; the unwavering support from people like you. I see the ways you helped a young parent find stability, a veteran access the care they deserve, and a newly arrived immigrant find hope. In the face of adversity, we’ve continued to build a stronger, more compassionate Central Texas. That is something to celebrate.

I am profoundly grateful for your support. You are part of this work, whether you gave, volunteered, prayed for our mission, or helped spread the word. We need you with us as we look ahead. There is more to do. But I know we will do it together. Thank you for walking with us. May God continue to bless our shared mission.

With Gratitude,