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WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the Diocese of Charlotte's Catholic Social Services agency, Dr. Gerard Carter, joined more than 150 Catholic Charities officials in meeting with President Barack Obama's Administration at the White House last week.

Catholic Charities USA hosted leaders from agencies across the country in Washington, D.C. Oct. 13 and 14. CCUSA is among the nation's largest human services and disaster response networks and a leading voice in the conversation about how to better serve the millions of Americans living in poverty.

"We are honored to bring the voice and urgency of the people that we serve each and every day to the White House," said Rev. Larry Snyder, President of Catholic Charities USA.

"One out of every six Americans is struggling to simply get by. It's clear the status quo is simply not working. We look forward to partnering with the White House to find solutions to improve the lives of millions of Americans while creating a more compassionate and just society."

On Friday, leaders from Catholic Charities agencies across the country participated in a policy briefing to exchange ideas on human services, housing, immigration and the economy.

Carter, executive director of Catholic Social Services for the Diocese of Charlotte, participated in the meeting at the White House.

"As one of the largest providers of direct services to those in poverty, it is essential that Catholic Charities agencies seek linkages across the public and private spheres to address the current poverty crisis," Carter said.

This meeting came on the heels of the release of Census bureau data showing historic numbers of Americans living in poverty and the re-introduction of The National Opportunity and Community Renewal Act, legislation developed by CCUSA to identify long-term solutions to the nation's poverty crisis.

"Catholic Charities USA is an incredible network of social service organizations that support our neighbors in need," said White House Director Jon Carson of the Office of Public Engagement.

"Having CCUSA leaders from around the country here at the White House for a day of discussion and collaboration is critical as we work towards our shared goals."

CCUSA held a roundtable discussion at the National Press Club about the principles needed to reform the safety net in an economically sustainable way that better addresses the needs of individuals on Thursday.

— Catholic News Herald