Today, the Archdiocese of Philadelphia announces the launch of the 2012 Catholic Charities Appeal, the single greatest fundraising initiative in the Archdiocese supporting Catholic Charities. Through the support of more than 80 programs within the Philadelphia-region - including educational programs for disabled children, soup kitchens, senior centers and hospices - Catholic Charities Appeal cares for more than 200,000 people every year.

Bishop John J. McIntyre, Temple University Head Basketball Coach Fran Dunphy, St. Joseph's University Head Basketball Coach Phil Martelli, Philadelphia Department of Human Services Deputy Commissioner Vanessa Garrett-Harley and long-standing Catholic Charities Appeal donor Dr. Rich Vassallo will offer remarks during the afternoon press conference.

News Conference
2:00 p.m.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Mercy Hospice
334 South 13th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107

The Catholic Charities Appeal funds the Catholic Social Services programs of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, including afterschool programs, community food cupboards, programs for dependent and delinquent youth and housing for the homeless, such as Mercy Hospice. Opened in 1976 to assist homeless women stabilize their lives and achieve self-sufficiency, Mercy Hospice provides housing and social services to women - and mothers with young children - in recovery from substance abuse.

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Editor's Note: For information about The Catholic Charities Appeal please contact 215-587-3651 or visit www.catholiccharitiesappeal.org.

Contact
Donna Farrell
Director of Communications
215-587-3747