When life takes an unexpected turn, it can be challenging to know where to find help, support and solace. For Cynthia, a resident of the Inland Empire, this truth became vividly clear after the heartbreaking loss of her mother. Amid her grief, she stepped up courageously to care for her adult brother, who has a severe mental disability. Facing significant challenges, including financial instability, an eviction notice, and the threat of utility shutoff, Cynthia needed help and guidance to help her navigate this challenging times.
She found refuge and support through Catholic Charities San Bernardino & Riverside Counties, a nonprofit that has been serving folks in need across the Inland Empire since 1980. Through the support of the programs and staff at Catholic Charities, Cynthia was able to receive emergency rental assistance, which prevented her eviction and kept her home functional with utility support. With her housing secured, she enrolled in Catholic Charities’ Career Advisory Program, an initiative designed to help individuals achieve economic independence.
Through this program, Cynthia worked diligently towards earning her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certificate. This step not only aimed at enhancing her employability but also paved the way for her financial stability. Through every obstacle and challenge the caring and considerate staff at Catholic Charities was with Cynthia at each and every step.
“Our team walked alongside Cynthia, helping her navigate the healthcare system for her brother, while providing emotional support through access to counseling services, empowering her to cope with grief and step confidently into her new role,” shared Agustin Avantes, MSW, Program Director at Catholic Charities.
Today, Cynthia is on a renewed path. She is nearing final approval to receive In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) payments to care for her brother, applying for CNA jobs with the support of our career advisor and continuing to receive coordinated care for herself and her brother. Her home is stable. Her utilities are secure. And most importantly, she is building a future rooted in self-sufficiency.
Cynthia is one of the 27,000 individuals and families that Catholic Charities serves across both Riverside and San Bernardino counties.
Catholic Charities San Bernardino & Riverside Counties was established as a compassionate response to the urgent needs of disadvantaged communities in the Inland Empire. The organization aims to tackle the root causes of poverty and instability, addressing critical issues such as food insecurity, affordable housing, healthcare access, and immigration services. As exemplified in Cynthia’s story, their approach emphasizes immediate relief paired with long-term solutions through holistic programs grounded in compassion and dignity.
With four regional centers located in Riverside, Coachella, San Bernardino, and Upland, Catholic Charities serves thousands of individuals and families throughout San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. The organization’s mission is clear: to achieve lasting stability and well-being by creating opportunities for healthy and fulfilling lives.
“At Catholic Charities believes that every individual deserves the right to a stable, healthy life,” shared CEO Tim Ney. “We support families on their journey towards lasting change. Over the years, we expertly adapted to address the evolving challenges faced by the community and will continue to do so.”
The organization has expanded its offerings from basic emergency assistance to a robust suite of specialized programs. Collaborating with government agencies, nonprofits, schools, and faith communities, Catholic Charities ensures that they can effectively reach those in need.
Today, Catholic Charities provides several key services that address both immediate and long-term needs:
- Hunger Relief: Through nutritious food distribution programs, the organization combats food insecurity and enhances overall community well-being.
- Healthcare Access: Catholic Charities assists individuals in enrolling in health insurance programs and navigating essential healthcare services.
- Career Advisory: Educational programs and training initiatives promote economic stability and self-sufficiency for clients. 4Citizenship Pathways: The organization offers legal immigration aid, citizenship classes, and advocacy support to assist immigrants through complex legal systems.
- Counseling Services: Professional mental health and relational counseling help individuals and families overcome emotional challenges and build resilience.
- Disaster Relief: Catholic Charities provides immediate and long-term support for families impacted by natural disasters and emergencies. This comprehensive approach illustrates Catholic Charities’ commitment to addressing immediate needs alongside long-term challenges, ensuring sustainable change for individuals and families.
Catholic Charities supports those grappling with food insecurity, unemployment, immigration issues, natural disasters, and health disparities, including mental health needs. The organization’s comprehensive and compassionate efforts aim not just to alleviate poverty but to create opportunities for individual and family empowerment, fostering a community of resilience and hope.
Through unwavering commitment, Catholic Charities continues to champion the idea that every individual and families across the Inland Empire has access to healthy and thriving life.
Catholic Charities is one of 40 nonprofit organizations participating in IEHP Foundation’s Inaugural Champions for Vibrant Health Leadership Network, a two-year leadership development program for Inland Empire community-based organizations (CBOs) that address the social determinants of health.