Advocacy & Social Policy Initiatives

The CCUSA Advocacy and Social Policy team helps governmental leaders understand the impact that poverty has on the American economy and family. We educate policymakers on the ways people in need are being served by their local Catholic Charities agencies. We also encourage those most affected by governmental decisions to share their experiences, which in turn helps to inform policies.

Why We Do It

The Social Doctrine of the Catholic Church teaches that the government and the Church should respect each other’s competencies. The Church as an organization of society, made up of citizens, has the duty to inform the government on issues of morality and justice. The Church also cooperates with the government in the achievement of the common good.

“The Church cannot and must not take upon herself the political battle to bring about the most just society possible. She cannot and must not replace the State. Yet at the same time she cannot and must not remain on the sidelines in the fight for justice. She has to play her part…”

DEUS CARITAS EST, NO. 28

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The mission of Catholic Charities is to provide service to people in need, to advocate for justice in social structures, and to call the entire church and other people of good will to do the same.

Working to Reduce Poverty in America
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Our Ministry

Affordable Housing
Immigration & Refugee Services
Integrated Health
Leadership Development & Catholic Identity
Social Enterprise Initiatives
Advocacy & Social Policy Initiatives
Disaster Services
Foundational Services
Food & Nutrition