Wednesday is the single biggest fundraising day of the year for Catholic Charities of Buffalo.
It's 'HOPE Day', a 24 hour match challenge day, in which the first $100,000 in donations will be matched dollar for dollar.
"Every dollar donated stays right here in Western New York" said Chuck Hayes, Communications Chief at Catholic Charities of Buffalo. "We serve all eight counties, reaching out to people in need and in crisis."
He said donors can designate how their gift is used. "A portion of the appeal is dedicated to the Fund to the Faith for programs such as Faith Formation and Hospital Chaplains. Donors can also ask that their entire donation go directly to Catholic Charities," he added.
Hayes explained that it is really important to know that money raised in the appeal is not used for anything other than human services programs at Catholic Charities.
He acknowledged that it is a difficult time in the Diocese with the ongoing clergy abuse settlements and bankruptcy case.
"We hope we're moving more toward healing and moving forward. But if people are angry and upset, taking it out on people who are in need and in crisis, is not the most constructive way to express that," he said.
HOPE Day is supported by several sponsors including OneBridge Benefits, EnergyMark LLC, Lawley Insurance, Abbey Mecca Advertising, and the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph.
HOPE Day donations can be made HERE or by calling 716-218-1400.
Appeal 2026 has a goal of $8 million dollars and continues through June 30.