Bishop Richard J. Malone at the announcement of the Catholic Charities 2015 Appeal goal in January. (Patrick McPartland/Staff Photographer)

BUFFALO - Less than one month after Appeal Week 2015 ended and less than two weeks after announcing this year's campaign surpassed $9.5 million, Catholic Charities of Buffalo today announced another milestone, reporting the organization has raised $10,096,782.40 in cash and pledges, representing 93 percent of the goal. As a result, volunteers for the annual Appeal must raise $900,000 more to reach this year's $10.9 million goal.

Sister Mary McCarrick, OSF, Catholic Charities diocesan director, applauded the efforts of the Appeal leadership team and supporters, and said she remains cautiously optimistic the 91st annual Appeal, which was originally trending behind last year, will reach its goal.

"Our incredible results thus far, in particular our recent surge, reflect the commitment of our Appeal leadership team, hundreds of volunteers, our pastors and other supporters throughout the diocese," said Sister Mary. "With an energetic push from our volunteers and supporters, we are confident in the coming weeks we can reach our goal by the end of June."

Jake and Katie Schneider, 2015 Appeal chairs, extended their gratitude to those who have donated to the campaign so far, and stressed the importance of what meeting the goal means to the hundreds of thousands of people in need throughout the eight counties of Western New York.

"Western New Yorkers are among the most generous and compassionate people in the U.S. and we urge all individuals, corporations, schools and parish organizations to keep working to help Catholic Charities  continue to impact the lives of more than 142,000 neighbors in need - Catholics and non-Catholics alike - who are depending on us,"  Jake Schneider said.

"Catholic Charities offers a way for all of us to help those who are poor and vulnerable across Western New York," said Katie Schneider. "A contribution to the 2015 Appeal means older adults can remain independent, young people are educated and prepared for college and employment, and children who are in need of a safe home are given the protection they deserve.    Even if you are new to the Appeal, please consider a gift - as any amount helps."     

Catholic Charities has helped individuals and families in need since its founding in 1923. The need is varied and widespread - from emergency assistance to counseling - and from specialized services for the elderly to help with job training and education.

As the most comprehensive human service provider serving Western New York, Catholic Charities makes a difference for people of every faith and ethnicity. Catholic Charities empowers children, families and seniors to achieve meaningful, healthy and productive lives. In all situations, Catholic Charities delivers support to meet immediate needs, and then assess its clients for other needs to ensure long-term success.

Catholic Charities is an excellent steward of the contributions it receives. For five years, it attained the highest-possible rating (four stars) from Charity Navigator for transparency and sound fiscal management. Catholic Charities also receives highest ratings from the Council on Accreditation for quality service.

To make a donation or learn more about Appeal 2015, contact Catholic Charities at (716) 218-1400 or go to ccwny.org. You can also check out Catholic Charities on Facebook and on Twitter.