As we near Thanksgiving, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the compassion, resilience and generosity that sustain our work every day. In her November message, CEO Kaleen Deatherage shares her heartfelt thanks for the people who make our mission possible and reminds us why community matters so deeply, especially now.
In the midst of this season of gratitude, I want to pause and say — truly — thank you.
Your response to our emergency appeal earlier this fall was extraordinary. Because of your generosity, we’ve been able to keep our core programs strong: providing affordable legal services to immigrants, daily meals and clean clothing for women experiencing homelessness and continued case management and stability support for refugee families building new lives in Oregon.
We’ve also felt the power of kindness in so many small but meaningful ways: a freshly prepared meal dropped off by a neighbor, donated artwork brightening a resident common area, volunteers who show up week after week with open hands and full hearts.
While the support we’ve received doesn’t yet meet the full measure of need we see every day, it has made a tremendous difference. It’s kept the lights on, the doors open and hope alive.
This Thanksgiving, we recognize that not all tables look the same, and not all seasons are easy. But whether you give, volunteer, pray or simply believe in the work we do, please know how deeply grateful we are for all of you and for the shared hope and mission that binds this community together.
On behalf of all of us at Catholic Charities of Oregon, I wish you a safe, joyful and meaningful Thanksgiving.
With gratitude,
Kaleen Deatherage
Chief Executive Officer, Catholic Charities of Oregon