Haiti:

A powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti early Saturday morning, Aug. 14, and tropical depression Grace has brought further devastation. To help those afflicted, Bishop Callahan has asked the parishes of the Diocese of La Crosse to take up a special emergency collection at the Masses of the weekend of Aug. 21-22 or Aug. 28-29.  The monies from this collection will be forwarded to a special fund for Haiti relief set up by the U. S. Bishops.

Note: Contributions can also be made online to Catholic Relief Services, which is assisting in the relief efforts, by visiting www.crs.org.

Afghanistan:

With the Taliban overthrow of the Afghan government, refugees are fleeing, with many coming to the United States.  On August 18, local media reported that some number of refugees would receive housing at Fort McCoy, located in Monroe County.  Governor Tony Evers stated, “We have been in contact with federal partners about resettlement efforts for Afghan people who are seeking refuge at Fort McCoy. As we learn more information, Wisconsin is ready to assist these efforts and help these individuals who served our country and are now seeking refuge.”

While waiting to hear from Fort McCoy as to what assistance may be most helpful, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of La Crosse has contacted other state and national organizations to learn what needs they have been addressing.  Catholic Charities’ Immigration and St. Lawrence Community Services Programs stand ready to help. If you would like to partner in this effort to assist the Afghan refugees, consider the following options:

• Your donation will be used to get needed supplies, provide service staff, and be used to help the refugees in their transition and long-term solutions
• Sign up to help. We are anticipating that needs will grow and change on a regular basis. In an effort to respond to these needs as quickly as possible, we would like to invite you to sign up to offer your assistance.  By signing up, your information will not be shared with outside organizations, but it will allow us to contact you as soon as a need becomes identified.  We appreciate your help!