Nearly $8 million from the 2024 collection went to Catholic Relief Services for international relief and development efforts in places affected by war and natural disaster.

The visit to Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church underscored the importance of focusing on shared mission rather than differences, particularly at the beginning of Lent.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand championed the initiative to modernize the agency’s flagship community center, with U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer playing a key role in negotiations surrounding the funding bill.

Founded in 1900, the society continues its mission of making Catholic materials accessible to the visually impaired.

Donations have helped fund construction projects at a parish in Haiti.