For Immediate Release April 28, 2011

Contact: Roger Conner (703) 236-6218 (301) 252-7912

Catholic Charities USA and Catholic Charities Agencies Respond to Tornadoes and Severe Storms
Alexandria, Va. - In the aftermath of yesterday's tornadoes and Spring storms that have hit numerous parts of the U.S. over the past two weeks, Catholic Charities USA and Catholic Charities agencies are providing immediate relief to individuals and families devastated by the natural disasters. "Quite tragically, the severity of this Spring tornado and storm season has taken lives and created destruction in unheard of proportions," said Rev. Larry Snyder, President of Catholic Charities USA. "Our prayers go out to all of the families and individuals impacted. In the aftermath, we need your help and support." Catholic Charities agencies are assisting in the affected states of Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin. Agencies are conducting damage assessment and providing outreach to disaster survivors. Catholic Charities USA, the national office for the 170 member agency human services and disaster response organization, is coordinating with local agencies and providing assistance and support as needed. At this time, grant requests have been received to provide funding support for immediate relief and case management efforts. To contribute your help and support to the need in these areas and others, please go to the Catholic Charities USA disaster donation Web page. About Catholic Charities USA Catholic Charities USA is the national office for Catholic Charities agencies nationwide. Catholic Charities USAs members provide help and create hope for more than 10 million people a year regardless of religious, social, or economic backgrounds. For almost 300 years, Catholic Charities agencies have worked to reduce poverty by providing a myriad of vital services in their communities, ranging from health care and job training to food and housing.

###