HOPE Day, the annual 24-hour match challenge day of giving, raised a total of $528,105 in support of Appeal 2026 on March 18 to benefit Catholic Charities of Buffalo and the Fund for the Faith, pushing the annual campaign past the halfway mark toward its overall $8 million goal. The total surpasses last year’s record of $516,124. 
This total included $100,000 in matching funds from OneBridge Benefits, EnergyMark, LLC, Lawley Insurance, Abbey Mecca Advertising, the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph, and additional support provided by Catholic Health, Independent Health, Schneider Family of Services, and Mueller Services Inc. Appeal 2026 currently has raised $4.3 million or approximately 54% of its $8 million goal.
“Thank you to all who contributed on HOPE Day in support of the essential programs and services Catholic Charities provides to the most vulnerable in our community,” said Dan Mecca, Appeal 2026 chair. “The need here locally is not going away as mental health challenges continue to rise, food insecurity remains a daily concern for thousands of families, and a single unexpected expense can trigger a crisis for others. In moments like these, having somewhere to turn to, like Catholic Charities, can make all the difference. With the ongoing help from the broader Western New York community, Catholic Charities can continue to provide HOPE to all.”
The annual Appeal helps fund dozens of programs and services administered by Catholic Charities along with several ministries through the Fund for the Faith. Catholic Charities assisted more than 135,000 individuals, families, and children across all faiths and throughout all eight counties of Western New York last year.
Although HOPE Day efforts are complete, the Appeal continues through June 30 – a pledge or gift by that date will help reach the goal. To donate to Appeal 2026, visit ccwny.org/donate or call 716-218-1400.
