Through Wee Care Shoppes, Catholic Charities helps young families in need. At the other end of the age spectrum, its Elder Ministry enriches seniors’ lives with a range of programs. (Photo provided by Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte)CHARLOTTE — From a newborn’s first bottle to a senior’s Spring Fling line dance, Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte walks alongside individuals and families through every season of life, offering compassionate care, practical support and community connection from birth through elderhood.
Across the Diocese, Catholic Charities provides essential services tailored to the needs of both the youngest and oldest among us. In Lenoir, North Wilkesboro and Winston-Salem, Wee Care Shoppes are a lifeline for young families. Offering free clothing in sizes up to 2T, along with diapers, baby wipes, bottles and blankets, these storefront ministries meet parents in moments of great need and new beginnings.
The process starts with a phone call to one of the regional offices to schedule an appointment. Staff and volunteers then help families choose from a selection of infant and toddler items.
Sierra, a single mom, came to Catholic Charities in Winston-Salem seeking baby supplies but found so much more. With immediate help from the food pantry and long-term support from case managers, she’s building a brighter future for her family and pursuing her dream of becoming a teacher.
“Catholic Charities feels like a family member to help you navigate through difficult times in life,” she said.
The Wee Care ministry depends on the generosity of local communities. Parishes and schools are encouraged to host diaper drives, for which Catholic Charities provides ready-made flyers and coordinates pick-up of bulk donations. Baby clothing donations, new or gently used and clean, are always welcome. Items like furniture and car seats are not accepted for safety reasons.
At the other end of the age spectrum, Catholic Charities’ Elder Ministry enriches the lives of older adults with programs that nurture body, mind and spirit. Guided by the belief that seniors have much to give and deserve ministries tailored to their needs, the diocese offers a variety of services and opportunities for engagement.
“Every stage of life is a cherished gift,” says program director Sandra Breakfield, “and our seniors are thriving and contributing wisdom and grace to our community.”
Elder Ministry organizes educational and social programs for seniors in various locations around the diocese – as well as online – to nurture talents, increase knowledge and improve well-being. It also partners with parishes and vicariates to develop programs “to, for, by and with” older adults. Topics run the gamut: fraud prevention awareness, navigating Social Security and Medicare, senior living options and aging “in place,” home safety and fall prevention, health and wellness fairs, and more.
Each spring, the joy of this ministry is on full display during “Spring Fling” – a day of fun, fellowship, food, crafts, dancing and worship. Seniors from across the diocese gather to celebrate community, enjoy health and wellness activities and end the day with Mass.
Whether it’s a mother receiving her first baby blanket or a senior dancing in celebration, Catholic Charities inspires people at every stage of life to do more. Sierra, for example, wants to pay back the help she has received. “Moving forward, I want to always be able to extend a hand to someone who is in need or more in need than myself.”
Through ministries like Wee Care and Elder Ministry, the Church puts its love into action, affirming the dignity of each person from birth to the golden years.
— David Long, Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte
More online
More onlineAt www.ccdoc.org: Get more information about Wee Care or Elder Ministry and how to give or get involved in the work of Catholic Charities across western North Carolina