Economic Development Grant Collaboration

“As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” Peter 4:8-10

The Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) was started in 1970, by the U.S. Catholic Bishops, as a program to address poverty in the United States. CCHD is working to break the cycle of poverty by helping low-income people participate in decisions that affect their lives and communities. CCHD is able to do this by funding community and economic development programs across the U.S.

In 2016 and 2017 the Foundation and CCHD began working in collaboration and were able to award a total of $56,000 in grants to help foster economic development in the cities of Mora and Pena Blanca.

In Mora, the Enjarradores Challenge Program provided youth from low income families an opportunity to acquire job wages and skills while performing routine maintenance on traditional historic church structures

In Pena Blanca, the Sangre de Cristo Restaurant taught job skills to the women in the transitional living home and partnered with Santa Fe Community College, where they offered culinary classes for these women.

This year The Catholic Foundation is, once again, working in collaboration with CCHD to match grants for Economic Development. They will be matching up to $7,000 which will double what the Foundation awards. Bringing the total up to $14,000 for each Economic Development grant awarded in 2019. By working together with CCHD and the Archdiocese of Santa Fe, we will be able to make a greater impact on the communities we serve and the help to end the cycle of poverty.

To find out what the guidelines for an Economic Development grant are call Michele at 505-872-2901.

For more information about CCHD visit their website or contact the Office of Social Justice and Respect Life at 505-831-8167.