Shared Insights ... by Arthur Peters, Executive Director

Our Charitable Response to Catastrophe

(January 18, 2010) Five years ago, I started in my current role as Executive Director with ShareLife in the Archdiocese of Toronto. At that time, I was leaving the Red Cross in the midst of the overwhelming Tsunami effort.

During my time with the Archdiocese, I have witnessed on many occasions the tremendous generosity of the Catholic community. Whether it is through our annual ShareLife appeal, parish offertory and building campaigns or special collections for the Catholic outreach to the greater community, we have collectively responded to support the work of the Church. 

Recently, I had the pleasure of presenting a cheque to Development and Peace for just under $400,000 in response to humanitarian relief appeals, most notably the Typhoon Relief Effort in the Philippines [more]. Within days of this presentation being made, we are once again called upon to assist our Brothers and Sisters in Christ in their time of need.

The situation in Haiti has touched the hearts of our society. With thousands killed and many more displaced, the world has come together to provide much-needed assistance. The ShareLife office is receiving calls on a regular basis throughout the day asking how people can help. Parishioners have stepped forward offering their time, talent, and treasure to make a difference at this important time.

This weekend, January 23-24, Archbishop Collins has asked parishes to hold a special collection to assist with the relief effort in Haiti. All funds collected will be forwarded to our partners at Development and Peace, who will get the money to Caritas Haiti. It is important to note that our partners are participating in the matching funds effort announced by the federal government. Among other efforts by our partners, 50,000 boxes are being assembled, and packed with food to be delivered to Port-au-Prince.

The Catholic community has always responded generously to the call for help; this weekend provides another opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to put Gospel values into action. Together, in many ways, we are working wonders!

To make a donation to support the Haiti relief effort, please click here.

Arthur Peters
Executive Director