The Compass newspaper -- April 25, 2003 Issue -- News

Gifts to Bishop's Appeal top $3.5 million

Bishop's Appeal

What: Bishop's Appeal, the Green Bay Diocese's annual fund-raiser to support diocesan programs and services offered to parishes and individuals.

Where: All parishes in the diocese.

When: Right now.

How: Making a cash, check, credit card (Mastercard, Visa and Discover) or pledge donation. Materials have been sent to homes and also are available through parishes. Some employers offer matching gift programs, for which Catholic Charities may qualify, since it serves the general public; additional information is available through Human Resources departments.

Theme: Stepping Together in Faith.

Target: $4.8 million.

NUMBERS CLIMB: As of April 22, Bishop's Appeal 2003 has received 35,181 gifts totaling $3,552,812 for 74.2% of the target of $4.8 million, reports Ron Shaha, director of the Appeal. More than 12,000 people who gave last year have yet to give this year. The Appeal supports numerous diocesan services to individuals, families and parishes.