Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - For the seventh year, Catholic Charities of Buffalo is hosting Hope Day, which takes place on Wednesday, May 15.
"It's a day when we have matching donors and we can double donations. $61,000 in matching funds are available," said Deacon Steve Schumer, President and CEO Catholic Charities of Buffalo.
Hope Day has been very successful in the past. Over $2 million has been raised on Hope Day. Last year, in particular, over $500,000 was raised on Hope Day.
Generous corporate donors allow Hope Day to happen. Uniland Development, Catholic Health, and OneBridge Benefits have stepped up this year to provide matching funds.
The best way to donate is HERE.
"We have a special page for Hope Day. People can come and watch the progress as our total goes up. They can also call us at (716)-218-1400. Volunteers are standing by to take pledges," added Schumer.
The goal of the annual appeal is $9.5 million. It runs through June.
"Unfortunately, this year we are behind," Schumer said. "We use these proceeds to fund some very important programs for our neighbors. We're about a million dollars behind where we were last year. It's concerning."
New this year is a partnership with Resurgence Brewing.
"They've taken one of their popular beers and re-labeled it. They're calling it 'Hops for Hope'," Schumer noted.
People can stop in at the tap room between 1 p.m. ET and 7 p.m. ET, where a portion of the proceeds will go to the appeal. You can also buy a four-pack and part of the proceeds will go to the appeal.
Donations to Catholic Charities serve people of all faiths across all eight counties of Western New York. Programs and services include basic emergency assistance such as food pantries, education and workforce training, family safety, immigration and refugee assistance, as well as behavioral health services, and youth and family support services.