At the height of World War II, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Camden, was in its infancy. Despite the enormous challenges, neighborhoods flourished and the economy boomed in support of the war effort. But even then, not all residents of the community were thriving. Before the establishment of public health and social service agencies that exist today, there was a growing number of “the unfortunates” — the poor, the aged, those suffering health and housing challenges, widows and orphans.
Over the years, the landscape, populations, and needs of the diocese have changed drastically.
But just like the early 1940s, there remains impoverished, marginalized populations in the Camden Diocese — and during times of crisis and disaster, those very populations suffer the most. And this rings true as those in southern New Jersey face the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), along with its many consequences.
According to Kevin Hickey, executive director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Camden, “This pandemic is somewhat familiar to us because it’s a disaster, a crisis. … We have seen disasters like September 11, natural disasters like Superstorm Sandy, and economic crises like the recession and the casino closures which left thousands out of work.”
But during those times, he said, Catholic Charities has always responded. And with every crisis and disaster, the agency has strengthened and adapted in ways that equip the nonprofit to respond quickly and efficiently. “Every disaster or crisis has brought devastation — illness, destruction of property, economic dislocation, emotional stress — but it has also given us an enormous amount of expertise and experience in responding.”
When it was apparent that the coronavirus would eventually reach New Jersey, the most densely populated state in the nation, staff and volunteers at Catholic Charities sprung to action to ensure that clients would still be served and that laws and regulations would be followed to comply with COVID-19 precautions. Hotlines and emergency numbers were set up; the agency’s counseling program prepared for a growing number of clients facing mental crises; case managers prepared for new clients who would face unfortunate repercussions of quarantines, including economic hardship, unemployment and rises in domestic violence, for example.
Hickey noted, “Every day, Catholic Charities is enacting the great commandment of Matthew 25 and that work continues even now, and it will continue for the coming days, weeks, months. … We do expect a lot of people to be reaching out to us. And we will be there.”
For those in need of help, visit: www.CatholicCharitiesCamden.org/coronavirus
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