Many of the tens of thousands of people Catholic Charities West Virginia (CCWVa) serves each year fall into the categories that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) considers at risk to contract the Coronavirus (COVID-19).
“CCWVa has worked hard to modify our services across the state in line with CDC regulations and to keep our staff, volunteers and clients safe,” said Beth Zarate, CCWVa chief executive officer.
CCWVa runs nearly a dozen programs throughout the state. Throughout all sites, CCWVa is diligent in meeting the CDC’s standards.
Program Modifications
Food pantries have changed from a casual “shopping-like” experience to pre-packaged bags and boxes with pick-up at the door. The CCWVa Mobile Food Pantry has shifted to a drive-through model in all counties that it serves.
“The work we do is critical; without it, people go hungry,” said Zarate.
Several programs have adapted by providing phone call appointments or videoconferencing rather than in-person visits.
CCWVa Commitment
“We will continue providing essential services to the Mountain State, knowing that the impact of illness and layoffs will be dire to many families,” said Zarate.
“We’ve been receiving a lot of calls from people wanting to know how they can help,” said Zarate. “We are most in need of donations at this time. Now more than ever, we are called to be people of faith, and the hands and feet of Christ.”
Our Stories
