Rally for Good: A Call to Action for Central Minnesota

November 4, 2025

THE NEED IS URGENT.

This winter, Catholic Charities of St. Cloud is issuing a heartfelt plea to our community: we need your help—now more than ever.

With SNAP benefits suspended due to the federal government shutdown, the holiday season approaching, and temperatures dropping fast, families across our region are facing impossible choices. Do they buy groceries or winter boots? Pay rent or get toys for their children? These are decisions no one should have to make.

At Catholic Charities, our Emergency Services program is seeing unprecedented demand. Shelves are emptying faster than we can fill them. The need for food, winter gear, hygiene items, and toys is urgent and growing by the day.

That’s why we’re launching Rally for Good this November—a community-wide movement born from an internal campaign that inspired us to take action beyond our walls. We’re inviting everyone in Central Minnesota to rally with us and ensure that no one goes without this season.

Right now, these donations are lifelines. And right now, those lifelines are stretched thin.

We believe in the power of community. We believe that when we come together, we can make sure every neighbor is fed, warm, and cared for. We believe that your generosity today can impact generations to come. This is more than a donation drive. It’s a movement to show what Central Minnesota is made of.

Let’s rally for the single parent trying to make ends meet. For the senior choosing between medication and heat. For the child who deserves to wear a warm coat while waiting for the school bus. Let’s rally for good.

Want to get involved? Here’s how to help.

ccstcloud.org/rally-for-good

HERE'S HOW TO HELP

Our Recent News

By Jenna Pettit October 27, 2025
Raphael's Story: Senior Dining
By Jenna Pettit October 21, 2025
As the crisp autumn air settles in and football season hits its stride, Catholic Charities is proud to partner with the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University for a heartwarming cause: a Winter Wear Drive during the Johnnie Football Game on Saturday, October 25, 2025 , part of the schools’ Family Weekend celebration. While fans gather to cheer on the Johnnies, we’re inviting everyone to bring the warmth—literally. We’re collecting coats, hats, mittens, boots, and other cold-weather gear to support families in need across Central Minnesota. With winter fast approaching, this drive is more than a donation—it’s a lifeline for those facing the season without adequate protection from the cold. Our goal? 250+ coats. Our mission? Ensuring no one faces winter unprepared. Collection boxes will be conveniently placed around campus, near the field, and in the tailgate area , making it easy for attendees to drop off their donations while enjoying the game-day festivities. Can’t make it to the game? No problem! You can still be part of the effort. Donation boxes will be available at BOTH Blueline Sports locations , so you can contribute at your convenience. This collaboration between Catholic Charities and CSB/SJU is a powerful example of community coming together—not just to celebrate, but to care. Let’s rally for warmth, compassion, and generosity. Together, we can make a real difference. Let’s make this Family Weekend one to remember—for all the right reasons.
By Brittany Hoversten October 15, 2025
Homelessness can be an isolating and heartbreaking experience. For many individuals, it can feel like an endless cycle of setbacks, leaving them uncertain of where to turn for help. This is the story of Tyrone, a 37-year-old man who, after spending an extended period on the streets, found his way to Catholic Charities Emergency Services—and with it, a renewed sense of hope and a path forward. Tyrone's journey began when he was introduced to Catholic Charities by the staff at Place of Hope in St. Cloud, a shelter that provides support for individuals experiencing homelessness. Tyrone was eager to make a change, but he knew he faced some significant challenges: securing stable housing and finding a job. To do this, he needed identification and other key documents, which would be vital for his employment and housing applications. When Tyrone came to Catholic Charities, he was not just seeking food assistance—he needed tangible support to help him rebuild his life. We were able to offer exactly what he needed, starting with a free bus pass to help him get around. This small but crucial gift allowed him to travel to job interviews and important appointments without the burden of transportation costs. In his appointment with our Financial Assistance program, Tyrone was relieved to learn that Catholic Charities could offer additional support. First, we helped him obtain his state identification card, followed by his birth certificate. These documents were essential for Tyrone to move forward with securing employment and housing. After some interviews, Tyrone accepted a job at a local restaurant in St. Cloud. We were able to help him purchase two pairs of black pants, a necessary uniform requirement for his new position. With the right clothing and documentation, Tyrone was ready to take on his new job. Looking back on his experience, Tyrone shared how grateful he was for the help he received from Catholic Charities. Our services gave him more than just the physical items he needed—they provided him with the tools and resources to regain his independence and start a new chapter in his life. We are proud to have been a part of Tyrone’s journey, and we are committed to helping others in our community who are facing similar struggles.