BUFFALO — The Most Rev. Richard J. Malone, bishop of Buffalo, was joined by Catholic Charities officials and Appeal leadership Wednesday to provide an update on this year’s 94th annual campaign following the conclusion of Appeal Week 2018 on Palm Sunday in all parishes throughout the Diocese of Buffalo.

With the 2018 Appeal nearing its midpoint, Bishop Malone reported $7,025,901.13 has been raised to date, representing 64 percent of this year’s $11 million goal.

Funds raised during the Appeal will help support the 70 programs and services provided by Catholic Charities at 61 sites throughout Western New York, along with the Bishop’s Fund for the Faith. Although Appeal Week, which ran from March 17-25, marks the strongest push for parish donations, volunteers will work to achieve the final goal until June 30, the end of the organization’s fiscal year.

“The incredible generosity of parishioners throughout the eight-county diocese remains the foundation of our Appeal,” said Bishop Malone. “While parish donors traditionally provide 80 percent of our funding, we increasingly look to the entire community and a new generation of supporters to ensure our continued success.

Commenting on the potential impact of recent information being released regarding past sexual abuse involving members of the clergy, Bishop Malone said, “Donors can rest assured contributions to the Appeal will continue to support programs and services and will never fund any settlements by the diocese.”

The theme of this year’s Appeal, which began in January, is “Love your Neighbor.”

To donate to the 2018 Appeal or for more information contact Catholic Charities 218-1400 or go to ccwny.org. You can also join us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.